Gulf Coast Woman October 2022

FOUNDER

Dr. Angela Bruni

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Dorothy P. Wilson

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Sherry Moxley Seaman

MARKETNG DIRECTOR

Crystal Scretching

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER

Jennifer Gentile

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jasmine Ball

Maria Barr

Carla Biasi

Karol Brandt

Mavis Creagh

Tracy Daniel-Hardy

Kelsie Dove

Julia Green

Brittney Johnson

Dr. Philip Levin

Jennifer Miller

Joy Monnerjahn

Jenni Murray

Melissa New Stacey Riley

Melanie Robinson

Mandie Rodriguez

Kathy Rogers

Susie Siemiontkow ski Janice Spencer Windy Stanton Darlene Underwood Cherie Ward Angelyn Treutel-Ze ringue

Brandi

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Farrah Underwood Kristan Brewer

ON THE COVER

Photographer: Brandi Stage Portraiture

COVER SUBJECT

Dr. Pam Tuli Dr. Randy Roth Dr. Johneen Gilich

Dr. Richa Gupta Dr. Randy Buntyn

CONTACT US

38 Pass Road, Suite A, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422

CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

© 2022 Gulf Coast Woman is published 12 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. www.gcwmultimedia.com

DR. STEPHANIE FUSSELL

DR. OLIVIA HIGHTOWER

DR. ALLISON WALL

3D Mammogram

More comfortable. More accurate. Earlier detection.

Regular mammograms

key

early detection, but should

with breast cancer, the team at Singing River Cancer Center is here with the best doctors, latest procedures, and most cutting-edge technology.

*Physician order required. Fees include radiologist reading. 2D mammogram specials also available for $75. Discounted rates are for appointments from 9/1/22-11/30/22 only.

Always by your side. Every step of the way.

Always by your side. Every step of the way.

Cutting edge treatments and clinical trials. Close to Home.

Cutting edge treatments and clinical trials. Close to Home.

Pamela Tuli, M.D.

Sidra Khalid, M.D.

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

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

228.575.1234

228.575.1234

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

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

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

Hamza Minhas, M.D.

DOCTOR

Sidra Khalid, M.D.

Pamela Tuli, M.D.

Hamza Minhas, M.D.

Breast Cancer Doesn’t Wait — Neither Should You.

If faced with breast cancer, figuring out what to do and where to go for treatment can be overwhelming. Memorial Cancer Center provides access to experienced physicians and staff dedicated to accommodating the unique needs of breast cancer patients. Your care happens right here, close to home. Our Promise is to provide exceptional care and find options that keep you healthier longer so you can continue a life well-lived.

To find out more about our award-winning Cancer Care call (228) 575-1234 or visit WeAreMemorial.com.

SAVE THE date!

Here’s what’s happening on the Coast this month

Cruisin’ the Coast

Oct. 2-9

Various venues across the Coast, see cruisinthecoast.com for a full schedule

The Mississippi Gulf Coast’s premier event returns for the 26th year, featuring cruise-ins, headlining bands and oldies entertainment, a swap meet, car corral, auto auction and more. Known as America’s largest block party, this highly anticipated event draws car enthusiasts from over 40 states and several countries

Disco fever — benefitting the Pink Heart Funds

Oct. 15

6:30-11:30 p.m.

Richburg Hall - 1316 30th Ave., Gulfport Join the Pink Heart Funds for a funfilled evening featuring the one and only “Sweet Potato Queen,” Jill Connor Browne. Don your best disco attire and join in the fun with smooth retro tunes from Dr. Rock and the Interns. Sponsorships are available at many different levels, and proceeds benefit the Pink Heart Funds – a nonprofit that provides wigs and breast prostheses for free to patients in need. Learn more at facebook.com/pinkheartfunds.

trucks, vendors and more. There will be live music from Blackwater Brass, Royal Horses and The Karate Kids as well as food trucks vendors including True Wings, Coasty’s, and Captain Coconut’s. Visit https://flyllamabrewing.com/fun/ for more information and to download vendor application. Admission is free.

Swoon: A Wedding Event

Oct. 16 2-4 p.m.

Havana Nights Strolling Supper

Oct. 8

5-8:30 p.m.

La Terre Farms, Kiln

Enjoy an evening of delicious Cuban fare by Chef Tara with Savage Skillet and locally distilled, award-winning rum by Circle Hook Distilling while listening to tunes by Brandon Tingstorm and exploring the farm. The cost is $85, and limited tickets are available. Purchase at La Terre’s online shop: www.laterrefarms. com.

Swing for the Cause

Oct. 11

11 a.m. lunch and registration, shotgun start at noon

The Bridges Golf Course at Hollywood Casino, Bay St. Louis

Break out your clubs and prepare for a day on a top-rated golf course. This fun event is hosted by the Hancock County Community Development Foundation to raise money that will benefit and support 20 different community causes. Reserve your foursome for this sell-out tournament. Learn more and register at hancockchamber.org.

Making Strides of the MS Gulf Coast

Oct. 15

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., walk begins at 9 a.m.

AJ Holloway Sports Plex, Biloxi the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign has united communities, companies, and individuals to end breast cancer as we know it. Over the past two decades, 3- to 5-mile noncompetitive walks have collectively grown into the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement, honoring survivors, thrivers, caregivers and families alike. This year, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer celebrates its 30th anniversary and will take place in more than 150 communities nationwide. To learn more, contact Whitney Ott at gulfcoastmsstrides@ cancer.org or (601) 818-2480.

Hickory Hill Country Club and Resort, Gautier Brides won’t want to miss the East Mississippi Gulf Coast’s only wedding show, presented by Hickory Hill Country Club, After The Proposal Wedding & Events and I Do Y’all. Swoon will bring together the best wedding pros from across the region to provide ideas, inspiration and assistance with planning. Whether you are a local engaged couple planning a hometown affair or you’re considering a destination event, Swoon will have specialty vendors to help fulfill your dreams. General admission is $15.

Learn more or get tickets at www.idoyall. com/shows-events/swoon/.

Llamapalooza

Oct. 16

1 p.m.-until

Fly Llama Brewing, Biloxi

Fly Llama Brewing presents Llamapalooza, a street festival featuring live music, special beer releases, food

Annual Old Biloxi Cemetery Tour

Oct. 16 and 18

Sunday, 2-4 p.m., Tuesday, 5-7 p.m. 1166 Irish Hill Drive, Biloxi

Experience Biloxi’s musical history during this “Music-Makers of Biloxi” cemetery tour. The event is a selfguided, continuously performed event, so attendees may arrive any time and witness all the re-enactments featuring tales of Biloxians submitted by descendants. In keeping with tradition, this is a free public event, but donations are welcome. The tour will showcase history-based reenactments at gravesides. Walking entrance to the tour can be accessed either from the Highway 90 gate or from Irish Hill. Refreshments will be provided.

a nationally recognized Great College to Work For

110 years of family-friendly traditions & great benefits

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College employees tell their friends, family, and fellow employees how wonderful and rewarding it is to work at the college, but they also voice it in an annual survey, Great Colleges to Work For. The college has been listed at the top of Great Colleges to Work For 11 times, including in 2022.

“We are very proud of our standing as a Great College to Work For. Winning this national award shows that we recognize our employees are vital to achieving the college’s mission and giving students so many opportunities for success,” said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC president.

The Great Colleges to Work For® program recognizes colleges based on faculty and staff surveys designed and implemented by ModernThink LLC for The Chronicle of Higher Education. The ModernThink Higher Education Insight Survey measured 10 core dimensions.

This year, MGCCC was named to the Honor Roll for Great Colleges to Work For, winning top marks in six categories. Those areas are Compensation & Benefits, Faculty Experience, Faculty & Staff Wellbeing, Mission & Pride, Professional Development, and Supervisor/ Department Chair Effectiveness.

MGCCC provides a wide variety of outstanding benefits to employees, including health and life insurance, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, and state retirement. In addition, the college offers onsite health clinics through Singing River Health System free of charge to employees and their dependents.

“The health clinics are one of the incredible benefits for our employees,” said Dr. Jared Burns, associate vice president of Human Resources. “We also enjoy our great holiday schedule, with two weeks off at Christmas and a week off at Thanksgiving.”

Burns said other benefits include multiple options for supplementary retirement savings; library, gym and wellness center access; free access to sporting events and many fine art events; employee discounts at the bookstore; tuition waivers for employees and their families; and reduced tuition at select four-year colleges and universities.

“The educational benefits offered through the college are a deal maker,” said Burns. “Employees have the opportunity to continue their education while working at Gulf Coast and they can send their children here for little cost.”

On top of all these great benefits, the college administration fosters a family atmosphere. The college also encourages the inclusion of employees’ families in college events like football games, fall festivals, Homecoming activities, and Festival of Lights.

“Employees will tell you that we are like a family at the college, and that has been true throughout its 110-year history,” said Graham. “By fostering open lines of interactive communication and ensuring our employees feel a sense of belonging and pride in their workplace, MGCCC empowers each of them to fulfill our mission of inspiring excellence and accelerating achievement.”

18th Annual Biloxi First Roast

Oct. 20

6 p.m.

IP Casino Resort Spa, Ballroom A, Biloxi Peter Roy Elder, a born-and-raised Biloxian and Biloxi High School graduate, will be the guest of honor at this event benefitting Biloxi First, which provides funds for innovative classroom projects within Biloxi public schools. Elder is one of the premier scouts in Major League Baseball and has won three World Series rings with the New York Yankees and three with the San Francisco Giants. Learn more at www.biloxischools.net/Page/3451

Moonlight Masquerade: Cirque Gothique

Oct. 22

7-11 p.m.

White Pillars Restaurant and Lounge, Biloxi

The Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence will host an incredible night of elegant, spooky gothic fun with a carnival vibe, helping to raise funds to support the center’s programs. Cuisine by White Pillars, as well as cocktails, costumes, a silent auction and live music by Symone French, will make this the premiere event of the Halloween season.

2022 Young Artists Vocal Competition

Oct. 22

10 a.m.

Tentative location: MGCCC Harrison County Campus, Gulfport Outstanding singers ages 15-25 and hailing from the Mississippi Gulf Coast are invited to participate in the 11th Annual Young Artists Vocal Competition, sponsored by the Gulf Coast Messiah Chorus. Participants sing a Messiah solo before a panel of judges. Scholarships are awarded. The young contestants then attend several rehearsals and sing Handel’s Messiah with the Chorus. The top soloists will have the honor of performing their solo during the 70th anniversary concert season of the Gulf Coast Messiah Chorus, December 1-3, 2022. To learn more, visit messiahchorus. org or call Frieda Charron at (757) 8704020.

13th Annual Taste of Long Beach

Oct 27

5:30-8 p.m.

Long Beach Senior Center

Join the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce for the 13th Annual Taste of Long Beach event, featuring great food and beverages, live music, a silent auction and more! Attendees must be 21 or older to attend. The cost is $30 for the early-bird special and $40 at the door. Learn more at facebook.com/tasteoflongbeachms.

Diabetes Awareness and Health Expo

Nov. 2 9 am to 1 pm

MGCCC’s Hospitality Resort Management Center

The National Diabetes & Obesity Re search Institute (NDORI) is partnering with Magnolia Medical Foundation (MMF) to host this FREE event for the public to attend and participate in health screen ings. Screenings for blood pressure, blood glucose, BMI, Retinal Eye screens, diabetes risk assessments, and others! Lo cal experts will discuss diabetes preven tion, management, healthy eating, and physical activity. Rob Stinson will also be offering a healthy cooking demonstration for attendees.

A Taste of the Future

Nov. 4 5:30pm-8:00pm

Bay St. Louis Community Center

301 Blaize Ave, Bay St. Louis, MS

Come as you are & kick back! Guests will enjoy delicious samplings from local restaurants and vendors, a cash bar, silent auction and entertainment. The purpose of the event is to raise aware ness and funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast - Hancock County Unit. Sponsorships are available. For details email crystal.scretching@gmail.com. Purchase tickets online at bgcgulfcoast. org

Pascagoula Run Paddle Battle

Oct. 22

Race start: Little River Marina; race finish: LaPointe-Krebs House

8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dip your paddle into one of the Coast’s officially designated water trails and enjoy a uniquely adventurous perspective of the region’s abundant natural beauty and native wildlife. The Pascagoula Run Paddle Battle is an 11.5-mile race down the Pascagoula River for all types of human powered paddle craft.. Shuttles will be provided back to the race start. Sign up and learn more at facebook.com/Pascagoula-Run-PaddleBattle-101969925396939.

Red, White and Blue Benefit Golf Tournament

Oct. 29

8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunkist Country Club, Biloxi

This year’s benefit golf tournament, held by the Gulf Coast Messiah Chorus, will feature lots of cash prizes, including $10,000 for a hole in one. The entry fee is $75 or $300 per team; food and beverages are provided. Men, women and youth are welcome. For additional information, please contact Robin Mitterer, GCMC golf chair, at (228) 263-1579; The Sunkist Pro Shop at (228) 388-3961; or Bill Herrlich, tournament advisor, at (228) 860-7927 — or visit www.messiahchorus.org.

13205 CHASAE LANE, GULFPORT, MS

3 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS | 2,850 SQFT | $470,000

Wonderful Family Home in Chasewood Subdivision. High ceilings, beautiful Luxury vinyl flooring. Two fireplaces. Custom Crown Moldings through-out. All new Custom cabinets w/ granite counter tops in the large kitchen w/ stainless appliances. Large Laundry Room w/ built-ins and granite counter tops. Covered patio with private ½ bath. Outdoor Kitchen. Exercise pool in the backyard. Beautifully landscaped yard. Oversized double Garage.

10 MOCKINGBIRD LANE, GULFPORT, MS 39507

4 BEDS, 3 BATHS | 3,303 SQFT | $665,000

This home has the Southern Charm you have been looking for. Large Study, Den with vaulted ceilings’ & fireplace, sunroom, Kitchen with a Gas Cook Top and granite counter tops, all new appliances, with wet bar and pass through to the Game Room so everyone can enjoy company and family time. One Bedroom on the 1st floor. Two bedrooms and a master suite upstairs all w/ balconies. Two great outdoor sitting areas with a covered outdoor area, detached workshop. The best part is you’re just a walk away from the Beach.

open floor plan. Entry w/ Onyx flooring, fireplace w/ Brazilian RR tie mantel, sky lights throughout, Brick & Slate flooring, exposed beams, custom cabinets, stainless appliances. Second floor has an open loft bedroom with bath, built in beds at two of the Windows and vaulted ceiling. Could be 3 bedrooms upstairs.

Flowing like family MOIRA ANDERSON USES YOGA TO HELP OTHERS HEAL

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Althoughshe lost her home and all her material possessions in Hurricane Katrina, Moira Anderson found a spiritual home within herself that kept her going.

“Yoga, a stabilizing practice, really helped with that — so did the community of people gathering for class to move, breathe and connect back to the present moment,” says the veteran yoga teacher and licensed master social worker. “What was in our hearts could not be taken away, and that was truly beautiful and comforting.”

Anderson’s business, River Rock Yoga and Pilates, opened in 2006 in Ocean Springs — providing a refuge for a community reeling from the devastating storm. Today, the studio still prides itself on caring for all students, who range in age from 3 to 85, on a personal level. Anderson and her team often can be heard saying, “Everyone can do yoga.”

“Our students are curious, adventurous souls who make peace, wellness and personal evolution a priority; they also want to maximize their mobility and release tightness while improving joint comfort and agility,” Anderson says. “I love that our students inspire and support each other and look forward to seeing each other each week. We are truly like family!”

Some especially athletic clients enjoy a more active yoga flow while others prefer a gentler session that helps relieve aches and pains and fosters strength and flexibility. Anderson first turned to yoga to alleviate physical pain when her children were little.

“I was thrilled when I could finally turn my head again!” she recalls. “I committed to classes several times a week, and the practice quickly became central to my life and wellbeing.”

Anderson notes that humans have been

benefiting from yoga for 6,000 years — and the practice is at least as popular now as when she began teaching it over 20 years ago. An experienced instructor with over 500 hours of training, she has traveled extensively and studied with the country’s most renowned instructors. Since 2007, she has been coaching other instructors as part of a Yoga Alliance teacher training program, and since 2010, she has been working in clinical mental health settings using yoga therapeutically.

To Kimberly Jackson, who met her while she was teaching at World’s Gym in Ocean Springs, Anderson became a beloved and trusted mentor. When Anderson decided to launch her own studio, she approached Jackson about taking over her classes at the gym.

“I had never considered teaching yoga, but watching her skillful guidance as a teacher and knowing the positive effects on people’s health that yoga had was enough to inspire me,” Jackson recalls. “It wasn’t long before I was enrolled in several yoga teacher programs, including the very first teacher training program at River Rock Yoga and Pilates.”

Jackson has been instructing at River Rock for 15 years and recently became the studio’s manager. Jackson says Anderson earned her respect and loyalty through her dedication to helping people heal “on the deepest level.” During the COVID lockdown, for instance, when the studio was shuttered for three months, Anderson created an online studio where people could access live yoga and Pilates from their own homes.

“I watched her work tirelessly while going to college full time to complete her master’s in clinical social work; she was at the studio day and night completing her

studies, caring for teacher and student needs, running every aspect of the business and teaching countless healing yoga classes,” Jackson says. “That is her level of love for what we have at River Rock. Simply said, she is an inspiration on the highest level.”

Anderson and her team are set to make an even greater impact as River Rock undergoes an expansion. A new wellness destination is in the works in Ocean Springs, where River Rock will relocate within the next year. The Mississippi Center for Yoga and Health will include a larger studio and sanctuary space for River Rock, with a hot yoga studio, as well as expanded mental health services and Pilates offerings, aerial yoga, Reiki, massage and spa services, ayurvedic and nutrition services and other health-andfitness-related offerings

The word yoga means “to yoke” or “bring together,” and Anderson says the current studio and the new center are about providing opportunities for connection.

“We pray that our presence in the community is welcoming, inspiring and educational,” she says. “If our center contributes in any way to bringing peace to people and reducing suffering, I will feel very blessed indeed.”

Kimberly Jackson and Moira Anderson

Purpose, aligned with passion

JOY SAUCIER, LONGTIME DEVELOPER OF LEADERS, NAMED HANCOCK CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Fordecades, Joy Saucier has strived to improve her community — and few things gratify her more than contributing to others’ success.

But at the Hancock Business and Industry Awards Gala, held annually in August, it was Saucier’s turn to shine as she was named Citizen of the Year. The community development representative for Mississippi Power, who made the state her home in 1993, says she was surprised to be named among the 10 Outstanding Citizens recognized during the ceremony — and even more humbled to win the Citizen-of-the-Year title.

“I’m always blown away by the amazing work being done, usually quietly and behind the scenes, by people who love their community,” says Saucier, who is also a mother and grandmother. “It was an honor to stand on that stage with nine more of them.”

The other Outstanding Citizens honored alongside Saucier included John Anderson, Geoff Belcher, Ginny Cabell, Julie Cannon, Starr Chapman, Myrna Green, Clarence Singleton Harris, Kay Kell and Mike Lee.

“Each year it is our privilege to recognize outstanding citizens who go above and beyond the call of duty to make our communities a better place to live for all of us,” says Tish Williams, executive director of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce.

Williams notes that Saucier was recognized specifically for providing leadership skills training to Leadership Hancock County classes since the fall of 2005. Her efforts as a facilitator and strategist, Williams adds, have helped grow the next generation of Hancock County leaders.

“With each class being made up of around 25 students, approximately 450 leadership graduates have benefitted from her direct training and facilitation,” Williams says. “She says that it gives her great pleasure and satisfaction to see former leadership participants receive awards and recognition for their contributions, as well as to see their professional growth.”

To others wanting to make an impact locally and beyond, Saucier’s advice is to participate in a community leadership program, especially one that emphasizes

interpersonal skill-building and teamwork like Leadership Hancock County. Such programs help someone form a network and develop important skills.

“Surround yourself with positive people who build you up while still being real,” she says. “And find a purpose that aligns with your passions. Roll up your sleeves. and get to work!”

The Hancock Chamber of Commerce has been honoring exemplary citizens and businesses for over four decades, and this year’s gala drew over 500 guests to the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis. The evening’s other honorees included:

Industry of the Year: Lockheed Martin

Nonprofit of the Year: Mystic Krewe of the Seahorse and Ruth’s Roots tied for this award.

Small Business Award of Excellence: Pearl Hotel

Businesses of the Year: Hancock Women’s Center in Bay St. Louis, Lazy Gator Sports Bar & Steamer in Diamondhead, Susan’s Sassy Sweets in Waveland and Silver Slipper Casino Hotel for Hancock County

John Anderson, from, left, Clarence Harris, Kay Kell, Julie Cannon, John Ferrucci, Joy Saucier, Dina Hitt Rosetti, Myrna Green, Geoff Belcher, Julie Cannon, Mike Lee.

Reader Approved

TOP DOCTORS

Gulf Coast Woman polls its audience each year so that our readers and viewers can know who the preferred physicians are in Coastal Mississippi.

Woman make 80 percent of health-care decisions for their families so it's important to help you make the best provider choices.

Thank you to Memorial Hospital for joining us to present the Top Doctors 2022.

ALSO INSIDE: SPECIAL CONTENT WOMEN'S HEALTH

Although women lead in choosing healthcare providers for their families and they constitute about 75 percent of caretakers, they are notoriously negligent when it comes to their own wellbeing. That’s why this annual issue is also focused on women’s health — answering your questions, addressing your concerns and empowering you with knowledge to make the best choices for yourself and your loved ones.

Service with a smile

BY CHERIE WARD

When Dr. Randy Buntyn was a child, he knew he wanted a career that required handson experiences with people while utilizing problem-solving skills and extraordinary technology.

Despite his father and grandfather both being dentists on the Coast, dentistry was the furthest thing from his mind.

“Oddly enough, I never really thought about being a dentist,” Buntyn says. “I had been around dentistry my entire life. As a young fellow, I would hang out at my dad’s office doing lab work, and without realizing it, I was developing hand skills.”

He served in the U.S. Navy as a sailor aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal. When it came time to choose a career field, suddenly his path just clicked.

“Sometimes, I feel like I didn’t choose dentistry; dentistry chose me,” Buntyn says. “I do feel like this is what I needed to do in life, and I wish everyone could have that feeling.”

He has been a dentist for more than 20 years and heads Smile Gulf Coast dentistry practice in downtown Ocean Springs. Buntyn is excited to announce he will be moving his office to Gulfport, off Cowan-Lorraine Road and across from Captain Al’s Steak & Seafood.

“I grew up in Gulfport, and my dad had a dental practice there for nearly 50 years,” he says.

Each day at Smile Gulf Coast begins with structure and efficiency, with organizational meetings held before and after the care of each patient. The main object is ensuring all patients feel safe, secure and good about their dental health.

“These days, service seems to have taken a back seat in many areas of life,”

Buntyn says. “We try hard to provide incredible service.”

Buntyn knows that avoiding dental work out of fear can lead to teeth and gum neglect, but with a little tender explaining, jitters can be easily overcome.

“We have a gentleman who is retired from the military, and he was so scared of the dentist for so many years that he never went to the dentist and his back was against the wall,” he says.

A friend from church referred the patient to Smile Gulf Coast, and Dr. Buntyn and his staff created a detailed plan for his dental care recovery.

“He now has teeth he can function with, and he’s so proud that he has the biggest, friendliest smile you’ve ever seen,” Buntyn says. “It’s just incredible.”

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Dr. Randy Buntyn aims to make patients feel great about dental care

“Sometimes, I feel like I didn’t choose dentistry; dentistry chose me. I do feel like this is what I needed to do in life, and I wish everyone could have that feeling.”

Top Left to Right:

Kassie Stafford, PA-C; Amanda L. Harris, PA-C; Mary King, PA-C; Barbra Droddy, PA-C

Left to Right: Angela Wingfield, MD, FAAD; Ashley Emerson, MD, FAAD

Angela Wingfield, MD Dermatology

Eric Wolfson, MD, FACS Neurosurgery

Pamela Tuli, MD Oncology

Nathan Boles, MD Hospice & Palliative Medicine

Karen Slater, AuD Audiology

Summer Allen, MD Pulmonology

T. Paul Mace, MD, FACS General Surgery

Ellen Caswell, MD Endocrinology

Richa Gupta, MD Rheumatology

Tonya Henderson, MD Gynecology

Catina Marucci, MD Anesthesiology

Paul Shannon, MD Urology

David Eakes, MD Emergency Medicine

Leena Pande, MD Radiology

Joseph Graham, DO Vascular/Vein Health

Nicholas Conger, MD Infectious Disease

Antoine Rizk, MD, FACC, FSCAI Cardiology

When you’re dedicated to exceptional care

people notice.

Congratulations on being selected by Gulf Coast Woman’s readers as 2022

TOP DOCTORS

A passion for fashion

— and eye health

Dr. Johneen Gilich soars to new heights with optometry practice and optical shop

BY CHERIE WARD

Rarely does a member of the medical community get to focus on fashion, but Dr. Johneen Gilich found a way to provide great healthcare along with great style.

For the last 17 years, Gilich has treated her eye patients as an optometrist, which may include picking out the latest eyewear at her optical shop.

“I’m very passionate about my optical shop, which allows my passion for fashion to soar,” she says. “Providing local residents with the opportunity to purchase eyewear locally, and not have to

resort to the internet, with no chance to try on various styles, was a major goal of mine for the Coast area.”

It took a tremendous amount of hard work and persistence for her optical shop to gain exclusive rights to the Christian Dior and Fendi brands of eyewear.

“This makes my optical the only optical (practice) in the state of Mississippi to carry these designers,” she says.

Other designers available through her practice, Edgewater Eyecare in Biloxi, include Burberry, Prada, Gucci, Tom Ford, Krewe, St. Laurent, Chloe, Ray

Ban, Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar and many more.

“This diverse selection of designers and a huge selection set my optical (practice) apart, is unique to the Coast and makes me beam with pride,” Gilich says.

And when it’s time to focus on eye health, the doctor knows the importance of a thorough eye examination.

“I can see warning signs of serious cardiovascular and neurological conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, brain tumors and other serious ailments,” she says.

It’s not unusual for patients to send Gilich a heartfelt gift and handwritten thank you note after her diagnosis saved their lives.

“Those moments in my career are priceless, and I will never forget them,” she says. “Being able to uncover systemic diseases daily through routine eye evaluations is beyond gratifying.”

She also handles ocular emergencies involving scared and injured patients.

“When someone has suffered an eye injury, or calls begging for relief from eye pain, nothing is more rewarding than examining their eyes and being able to help alleviate their pain,” she says.

Her practice and optical store have many moving parts, and Gilich credits her all-star staff with keeping everything together.

“You are only as good as the people you work with, and it holds true in my office,” she says. “I get multiple compliments daily from patients about my staff and their kindness and efficiency.

“I’m a high energy person, so the members of my team must be people who enjoy a non-stop workday, and I’ve been blessed to attract some wonderful people with fast motors who care deeply about providing the highest-quality care to our patients.”

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

“Those moments in my career are priceless, and I will never forget them. Being able to uncover systemic diseases daily through routine eye evaluations is beyond gratifying.”

Dr. Jennifer Sutton and her husband, Dr. Jeff Sutton, own Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital, Beach View Veterinary Hospital, and Paws to Remember Pet Loss Service. They consider it a privilege to have the opportunity to care for people by caring for the pets they love! The combination of practices enables pets and their families to have seamless, complete, and compassionate care. Care includes day-to-day healthcare needs at Beach View Veterinary Hospital, urgent and emergency care 24 hours a day at Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital. Pass to Remember’ s cremation and other pet loss services and support after they pass away.

Dr. Jennifer Sutton is a 1998 graduate of Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her Master of Business Administration degree in 2018 at Louisiana State University Shreveport and is currently completing her Doctor of Business Management degree at Northcentral University. Dr. Jeff Sutton is a 1999 graduate of Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. They met during Jeff’s clinical year at LSU. Since 2003 when Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency opened, the Suttons have cared for more than 55,000 families and 90,000 pets along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. As one of the most modern veterinary facilities in the state of Mississippi, Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency has a comprehensive on-site laboratory, on-site blood and plasma bank, and the ability to consult with veterinary specialists around the world at any time of the day or night.

Acquired from a retiring veterinarian in 2015, Beach View is in a beautiful location with a “beach view” and proudly cares for pets from along the gulf coast and military families. In addition to routine

medical care, Beach View contains a state-of-the-art dental suite. Pets in need of overnight or advanced care easily transition to the emergency facility for around-the-clock monitoring. Both Beach View and Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency work closely with Friends of Jackson County, SPCA of Diamondhead, Pink Pawz, and other rescue organizations to assist their efforts to overcome stray and animal overpopulation struggles.

Opened in 2020, Paws to Remember is located in a separate building behind Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital. It is certified by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories and offers private and communal cremations. All private cremations include a beautiful wooden urn with an engraved plate, clay paw print, certificate, and other memorabilia. Specialty products like jewelry, memory boxes, distinctive urns, and grave markers are also available. Complimentary transportation from area veterinary clinics occurs upon request.

Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital has been included in the 2017 and 2021 Inc. 5000 list as one of America’s fastest growing, privately owned businesses. In 2018, the Suttons were named the Mississippi Small Business Administrations’ Business Persons of the Year. Jeff and Jennifer are both graduates of Leadership Gulf Coast. Jennifer is a graduate of the Goldman Sach’s 10,000 Small Business Program, Hancock County Leadership, Leadership Mississippi, and the GCBC Master’s Program, and the inaugural class of the Loyola University Woman’s Leadership Program. She is the recipient of the Coast Young Professional’s Forever Young, One Coast Community Leader, Success Woman’s Conference Top Influencer, and the 2018 Karen Sock LightHouse Business and Professional Woman of the Year awards. She was recently named the Power Up Summit’s Entrepreneur of the Year and one of the Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 Leading Business Women of Mississippi.

Excellence on call, 24/7.

2022

Every minute of your life is precious. And if you have a heart attack, every second counts to get you emergency care.

We hope you never have a heart attack. But if you do, we are always ready. You dial 911 and we respond.

We take excellence very seriously. That’s why we’re proud to say that, for the third year in a row, we have been recognized by the American Heart Association for meeting its Mission: Lifeline® EMS cardiac care standards.

The American Heart Association recognizes this EMS provider for attaining 75% or higher performance on each applicable Mission: Lifeline® EMS Achievement Measure for a consecutive 12-month interval to improve the quality of care for STEMI patients.

The American Heart Association does not endorse the products or services of the EMS provider recognized in this advertisement.

12020 Intraplex Parkway | Gulfport, MS 39503 | amr.net/MISS

Kids

from University of Mississippi

Fellowship completed at State University of New York, Buffalo

Soccer Mom to 2 daughters and a wife

I take a “common sense” approach to the practice of medicine. My philosophy is, I treat every child and family as if they are my own.

JEREMY M. BERTRAND, D.O. AFFILIATIONS

American Congress of Obstetricians

Gynecologist

Louisiana Osteopathic Medical Association

American Osteopathic Medical Association

EDUCATION

Ochsner LSU, Shreveport, Residency

West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, M.D.

Mississippi College, B.S.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College,

William Carey University,

Walden University,

Cutting-edge problem solver

BY CHERIE WARD

Atypical

day for Dr. Richa Gupta is just as invigorating as it is complex and challenging.

The 10-year board-certified rheumatologist says cutting-edge laboratory diagnostics and the fast pace of targeted treatments available to combat autoimmune inflammatory disorders have changed the face of rheumatology.

“Each patient is a puzzle, sometimes too complex, making rheumatology intellectually challenging — which I love,” Gupta says.

Her fast-paced day consists of meeting with patients on a comfortable, one-on-one basis to understand their unique medical issues, and her remarkable staff provides a work-family environment that keeps the day frictionless.

“I am very passionate about listening to my patients,” Gupta says. “Talking with them, knowing them and their symptoms, is the best way for me to diagnose their disorders. I am a big advocate of knowing their immune system. It helps me get to their diagnosis, and the treatments in this complex field are very streamlined.”

Gupta’s patients always are willing to share the happy, and even the sad, aspects of their lives to facilitate their treatment.

“Many of them cry during consultations because they love sharing their sorrows and feel they can connect with me,” the doctor says. “Sometimes they cry because they now have answers for their pain and symptoms. I usually tell them that we will work together in this process ….”

Gupta says the appreciation her patients have for her is the best part of her day and can lead to enlightening conversations.

“It’s the most interesting discussions between my older patients and me that teach me different perspectives and life lessons as well,” she says.

Gupta employs those life lessons at home with her two girls, Raima, 12, and Aariya, 9. She and her husband, Dr. Biju Marath, who is a neurologist, are surrounded by many supportive friends and lots of caring family members who help keep their lives running smoothly and efficiently.

“We plan our days ahead of time and balance life to the best we can,” she says. “We are really constantly busy, but I still feel very excited to go to work every day.”

Gupta credits her physician father for giving her a stellar example to follow in the medical field and the support of her mother for her passion in achieving her goals.

“It was seeing my father care for and treat patients since I was a little girl that made me want to be a doctor,” she says. “My mom, who is extremely intelligent, was very supportive. She encouraged me to pursue my passion and dreams, and here I am. I owe this big time to my mom and dad, and my very supportive husband and daughters.”

Dr. Richa Gupta is changing the face of autoimmune disorders one patient at a time

“I am very passionate about listening to my patients. Talking with them, knowing them and their symptoms, is the best way for me to diagnose their disorders. I am a big advocate of knowing their immune system. It helps me get to their diagnosis, and the treatments in this complex field are very streamlined.”

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Women’s Mental Health Hit Hard During Pandemic

Women in the workforce have been particularly vulnerable during this pandemic. Whether they are working in healthcare, education, social services or the food industry, many women have been on the front lines, and may have to deal with fear, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. The following actions are all positive ways to manage stress:

• Seek social support.

• Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.

• Exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.

• Avoid excessive alcohol and substance use.

• Spend more time with family.

• Eat healthy foods and stay hydrated.

• Maintain social connections with technology.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with sadness or anxiety, we are here 24/7. Walk in, visit gulfportbehavioral.com or call 800-831-1700 for a no-cost mental health assessment.

HOPE starts here, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Gulfport’s programs are covered by most private insurance carriers including TRICARE®, Medicare and managed Medicare programs.

11150 Highway 49N | Gulfport, MS 39503 800-831-1700

gulfportbehavioral.com

TRICARE® is a registered trademark of the Department of Defense, Defense Health Agency. All rights reserved. Physicians are on the medical staff of Gulfport Behavioral Health System, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Gulfport Behavioral Health System. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. Model representations of real patients are shown. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 220028-0334 9/22

PAUL E. MULLEN, MD FACC, FACP, FSCAI

Dr. Mullen graduated from University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. He completed his Internship, Residency and Fellowship at University of Maryland/ Baltimore VA Hospitals/Baltimore VA. Dr. Mullen is American Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. Dr. Mullen is also a Certified Clinical Physician Investigator by the Academy of Clinical Research Professionals. He is a Fellow of American College of Cardiology and Society of Cardiac Angiography and Interventions. Dr. Mullen maintains certification by the Board of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. He has been practicing Interventional Cardiology in the Biloxi/ Gulfport area since 1990.

ANTOINE B. RIZK, MD, FACC, FSCAI

Dr. Rizk graduated from St. Joseph University, Faculty of Medicine, Beirut Lebanon. He completed Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine and Fellowship in Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, CT, St. Raphael Campus. Dr. Rizk is American Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and the Society of Cardiac Angiography and Interventions. Dr. Rizk has been practicing Interventional Cardiology on the MS Gulf Coast since June 2000. His main expertise is placing coronary and peripheral vascular stents and implantation of cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators. Dr. Rizk has clinic hours in the Gulfport and Biloxi office locations.

JAY J. LIBYS, MD, FACC

Dr. Libys graduated from West Virginia University School of Medicine in Morgantown, WV. He underwent his Internal Medicine Internship and Residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.

He completed his Cardiology Fellowship at Mt. Sinai in Miami Beach, FL. He is American Board Certified in Internal Medicine Cardiovascular Disease. Dr. Libys is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology. His areas of interest include hypertension, infections affecting the heart and Cardiovascular aspects of cancer. Dr. Libys has been practicing on the Gulf Coast since 1995. Dr. Libys sees patients in Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead and Gulfport. Rizk has clinic hours in the Gulfport and Biloxi office locations.

St. Louis

45000

‘Mission accomplished’

BY CHERIE WARD

Dr. Randy Roth has been a physician for nearly 30 years, but nothing could have prepared him for the devastating COVID-19 pandemic.

“We pulled together, learned together and cried and grieved together,” says the chief medical officer at Singing River Health System. “As our COVID patients were isolated from their families, we became their family. We vowed that not one patient would die alone from this horrible disease. I am proud to say mission accomplished, as we sat with our patients, prayed with them and held their hand till the very end.”

A sense of humor is vital for doctors to keep their sanity, but Roth said there was nothing comical about tackling the pandemic. He credits his staff for providing a loving and gentle devotion to each COVID patient.

“It takes hundreds of people rowing the boat in the same direction to be successful in healthcare,” he says. “I have been blessed to work with these people with a common mission to improve health and save lives. COVID brought me to the realization that you don’t know the time or the place when the Lord will call you home. It reinvigorated me to enjoy my time with the people I love the most.”

These days, Roth and his wife, Dr. Tracy Roth, are busy teaching their six children to find a career path they feel passionate about and focus on being positive influences and great examples in their kids’ lives.

“My true passion is hospital medicine,” he says. “I love taking care of people I know. I came to a smaller community to make a difference. I want people that I go to church with, or know in the community, to want to get their care at Singing River Hospital

System, and I am so honored when they want me to take care of them.

“Mississippians are hardworking, loving, and trusting people. They welcome you into the community. Unfortunately, Mississippi is also one of the unhealthiest states, so I enjoy helping educate our population about how to take better care of themselves.”

His plans include a continuous focus on hospital medicine with possible travel opportunities to experience the healthcare systems of other communities and different cultures.

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Dr. Randy Roth treated patients like family throughout heartbreaking pandemic

“As our COVID patients were isolated from their families, we became their family. We vowed that not one patient would die alone from this horrible disease. I am proud to say mission accomplished, as we sat with our patients, prayed with them and held their hand till the very end.”

Always by your side. Every step of the way.

PAMELA TULI, M.D.

“The relationships one develops in oncology with patients and their families are unlike those in other specialties of medicine. This is what I cherish most.”

COAST

OMAN TOP DOCTOR

Cutting edge treatments and clinical trials. Close to Home.

Pamela Tuli, M.D. Hamza Minhas, M.D.

Hamza 2022

At The Medical Oncology Group, we are proud to provide comprehensive, leading-edge care for patients in our community with cancer and blood disorders. As the longest running oncology group on the Mississippi

Practicing for almost two decades, Dr. Tuli is passionate about continuously evolving her expertise to fight cancer and has two board certifications in Medical Oncology and Hematology.

Dr. Tuli studied medicine at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She then went on to complete her fellowship in hematology-oncology with the United States Air Force at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.

Sidra Khalid, M.D.

228.575.1234

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

Minhas,

Loggan Weihe, DMD

Karen Crews, DMD

Eli Lowry, DMD

Congratulations

Singing River Top Doctors

At Singing River, quality is in our DNA, and these amazing physicians are the best of the best.

Healthcare is selfcare

Ramon Brown, MD, FACS, FASCRS Colon & Rectal Surgeon

Tana Cooper, DO Family & Occupational Medicine Physician

We’re proud to have these amazing physicians on the Singing River team. Each one of them embodies the commitment to quality, cutting-edge treatments, and patient-centered care that sets Singing River apart.

Whether you’re seeking routine healthcare or in need of a specialist, call 228-809-5000 and we’ll get you on the road to your best and healthiest you.

Tamara Harper, MD, FAAP Pediatrician

Philip Myers, DO Orthopedist

Randy Roth, MD, FHM Chief Medical Officer

Making strides against cancer

BY CHERIE WARD

Each day, Dr. Pam Tuli feels fresh regard and respect for her patients — and she considers herself the lucky one because she gets to be in their lives.

“I admire them for their courage, tenacity, and grace,” she says. “They inspire me. They have taught me that we all have the ability and strength to overcome even the worst adversity, and that in every negative, there is a positive. They remind me to live each day to the fullest and not to sweat the small stuff. Every day, they teach me and remind me of what’s important in life.”

She also feels fortunate to have entered the oncology field when she did 16 years ago because she has experienced firsthand the stellar strides in cancer research and science.

“I got to witness the incredible evolution and advancement in the field,” says the oncologist with the Medical Oncology Group in Biloxi. “No other field in medicine has seen near the level of advancement. Oncology is such a unique and special field in medicine. It’s interesting, challenging, personally fulfilling and allows you to have such a positive impact on patient’s lives.”

Tuli says she chose oncology because she wanted to practice and teach medicine that would be anything but boring. She and her staff treat each patient like family and feel honored to be the team helping and guiding them during a critical point in their lives.

“Cancer science is so fascinating and always changing and advancing,” she says. “You definitely can’t get bored in this field. And unlike a lot of fields in medicine, in oncology, we see our patients on a frequent and regular basis, which allows me to get to know my patients and their families well.

“In so many ways, I feel I am more capable of treating my patients well because I truly get to know each of them as a person.”

Tuli loves sharing her knowledge with her staff and patients, as well as other doctors.

“I love to teach medicine,” she says. “I almost always have a resident doctor working with me, sometimes up to three on any given day. I think teaching makes me a better physician, as to teach something, you need to understand it well yourself. Medicine is always changing, and teaching forces you to stay updated.”

The doctor learned recently that being an oncologist is the only thing she’s ever wanted to do in life. She and her husband were taking their youngest son to visit a college, and her son posed an interesting question for them to ponder during the car ride: “If you could do anything for your job, and you would be good at it, what would you do?”

“We all contemplated the question for a while before giving our answers,” Tuli recalls. “My husband chose to work in landscape maintenance, as it would allow him to be outdoors, and the physical labor would keep him in shape. My son decided that he would be a stand-up comedian.

“I thought about many possibilities: interior designer, architect, hair stylist. In the end, however, I realized I would choose exactly what I am doing right now because I truly love what I do.”

She has determined that she’s right where she belongs and has no plans to stop anytime soon.

“There have been incredible advances in recent years, leading to the ability to cure many or provide long remissions to patients who previously had no hope,” Tuli says. “The field continues to make advances at such a rapid pace, so I’m excited to see where we will be and what we will have to offer our patients in five years.”

Dr. Pam Tuli feels fortunate to be on the frontline of oncology science and research

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

“I admire them for their courage, tenacity, and grace. They inspire me. They have taught me that we all have the ability and strength to overcome even the worst adversity, and that in every negative, there is a positive.”

THOMAS W. LEHMAN, MD, FACOG

Dr.

Lehman has practiced at Woman’s Clinic, PA and has been on staff with Memorial Hospital at Gulfport for 40+ years.

He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi in 1973 and his MD from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1976.

He is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, the Mississippi State Medical Association, and the Southern Medical Association.

Dr. Lehman proudly provides quality care to women and their babies from prenatal through postpartum. He also provides comprehensive OBGYN services including wellness checks, laparoscopic surgery and menopausal care.

TOP DOCTOR READER APPROVED

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 4577 13th St. | Gulfport 228-864-2752

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 2781 C.T. Switzer Dr., Ste. #306 | Biloxi 228-822-6368

www.WomansClinicPA.net

JOHN F. PAPPAS, MD

Delivering trusted care to women and their babies for over 20 years.

Dr.

John F. Pappas, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. earned his medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University in 1990 and completed his residency in OB-GYN at the University of Connecticut in 1994. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and has been practicing with Woman’s Clinic for over 20 years, specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Pappas is a fellow of the American College of OB-GYN and a member of the Mississippi State Medical Association and the American Medical Association.

Now providing healthcare services to generations of coastal women, the physicians, nurses and staff are confident patients will feel comfortable and secure in their care and are grateful for their legacy relationship with their patients of the Gulf Coast.

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 4577 13th St. | Gulfport 228-864-2752

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 2781 C.T. Switzer Dr., Ste. #306 | Biloxi 228-822-6368

ALISHA WARE, MD

1) They can always ask! Recently, I heard the term ‘gynechiatry’—gynecology and psychiatry. And there is some truth to this. It’s normal for patients to share intimate, often anxiety-provoking parts of their lives with their OB-GYNs and I will always try to listen and answer to the best of my ability…no judgment.

2) Empathy is key. Being able to relate to what my patients are going through has given me incredible insight. I have been a teenage girl going through puberty, been the mother of teenage girls, gone through 3 pregnancies and now getting older…my personal experience combined with my medical experience offer me incredible insight.

3) We’re in this together. I must know what the patient expects of me and they have to know what I expect of them.

4) Patients for life are great. One of the best parts of being in practice for almost 20 years, is that I have had the opportunity to see patients from their first annual exam, their pregnancies and through perimenopause, menopause and post menopause.

5) I really do care. More than anything, if my patient walks away and says, “She cares,” that is what matters the most.

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 4577 13th St. | Gulfport 228-864-2752

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 2781 C.T. Switzer Dr., Ste. #306 | Biloxi 228-822-6368

www.WomansClinicPA.net

5 THINGS I WANT MY PATIENTS TO KNOW…

COAST

What makes a great doctor? Excellent credentials and training. Vast knowledge of his or her specialty, maintained with continual study. Genuine care and compassion for patients and their families. Most would agree these attributes belong on the list. Then there’s that certain something – a undefinable mix of intuition, ingenuity and persistence that is the hallmark of exceptional physicians.

TOP DOCTOR READER APPROVED

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Dr. Mark Murray

2022

Great doctors put us at ease. When we have a symptom or concern, we go to them first because we know we can trust their opinion. They earn our loyalty by treating the person, not the condition.

South Mississippi is fortunate to have a number of such dedicated, talented professionals serving in our communities. Gulf Coast Woman is pleased to present the 2022 roster of the Coast’s Top Doctors, nominated and chosen by you, their patients. Congratulations to the following doctors who were voted the best in their fields.

MEET THE COAST'S TOP DOCTORS

What others say: “Spends time with his patients; listens to what we are telling him. Never rushes through the appoint ment, really cares about his patients.”

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Dr. Catina Marucci

What others say: “Best Anes thesiologist in the whole world — love, compassion and pa tience makes up her character as a person and professional.”

AUDIOLOGY

Dr. Karen Slater

What others say: “Dr. Slater has been serving her patients along the Coast for 30 years with a kindness, compassion and diligence rarely seen. She goes above and beyond to make sure the needs of her patients and her community are met and has hosted count less audiology interns over the years on their journey to becoming doctors of audiolo gy. Her influence is felt across the country.”

CARDIOLOGY AND CARDIOVASCULAR/ CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

parents. He and his team are very responsive to questions and concerns. Everyone in his office is very friendly and helpful.”

CHIROPRACTOR

Caleb Fortenberry

What others say: “Caleb is the best chiropractor and doctor I have ever seen. He takes time with his patients, listens and truly wants to get them feel ing their best.”

COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY

Dr. Ramon Brown

What others say: “Dr. Ramon Brown is an experienced colon and rectal surgeon and a dec orated U.S. Air Force veteran. He has been recognized as a COERS surgeon of excellence in robotic surgery. Dr. Brown is a member of several profes sional societies, has received numerous awards and has authored several publications. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Dr. Brown brings a high level of expertise and quality in colon and rectal surgical care to Singing River Health System.”

DENTISTRY

Dr. Kinyatta Bennett

What others say: “She’s genu ine and caring!”

field provides the most com prehensive and cutting-edge dermatology and cosmetic services on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She is a brilliant physician and treats every patient with compassion and respect. She is a trusted leader and mentor in the medical community, offering her time and expertise to young health professionals. In addition, she is a generous philanthro pist and donates time and money to numerous charities across the Gulf Coast. She is a wonderful physician and a true blessing to her patients and the Mississippi Gulf Coast community!”

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Dr. David L. Eakes

What others say: “Had some chest pain, went to the emer gency room and was seen promptly by Dr. Eakes. Even though it ended up not being something serious, he took me very seriously the entire time, explained everything extremely well and answered all my questions. Even though he probably had patients way more urgent than me, he never made me feel stupid or foolish for coming in. If he was a regular office doctor, there’s no one I’d rather see.”

ENDOCRINOLOGY

Dr. Ellen Caswell

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Dr. April Ulmer

What others say: “She literally saved my baby’s life. I was referred to her by so many friends of mine after she had taken care of their babies. My child had been seen by another (specialist) in town and was only getting worse. Once she saw Dr. Ulmer, with in one week, she was already getting better. I don’t know what would’ve happened if we had not met her. She’s also so good with my child. Her bedside manner is the best I’ve ever seen, and you can tell she really cares. What’s even better is that she really knows her stuff. Hands down the best doctor I’ve ever met, and the Coast is so blessed to have her. I refer everyone I know to Dr. Ulmer!”

GENERAL SURGERY

Dr. T. Paul Mace

What others say: “Best physi cian ever!”

GYNECOLOGY

Dr. Tonya Henderson

What others say: “She is the best ob/gyn. She is a great doctor to all her patients, and everyone loves her.”

HOSPICE AND

PALLIATIVE MEDICINE

Dr. Nathan Boles

Dr. Antoine Rizk

What others say: “Dr. Rizk is an extremely talented physi cian. I wouldn’t trust anyone else to take care of both my

DERMATOLOGY

Dr. Angela Wingfield

What others say: “Dr. Wing

What others say: “She is a terrific doctor, very thorough, compassionate and takes the time to explain everything to you in layman’s terms.”

October 202246 TOP DOCTORSWomen's Health & What others say: “Took great care of me.”

When my dad suffered a stroke, it was my turn to help him with important decisions, like making the right choice in rehabilitation. I asked the medical professionals that treated him who they trusted for the best care and outcomes. They referred us to a place that created a rehabilitation program

specifically designed for his needs using advanced technology and innovative treatments. And he was cared for by a highly trained, experienced staff that showed professionalism and compassion throughout his recovery. Now I know why they are the trusted choice of medical professionals.

COAST

TOP DOCTOR

WINNER 2022

Dr. Mark Murray, MD

Dr. Murray received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences from Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama in 2001. He received his medical degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama in 2005. He completed his residency in pediatrics at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Unit in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 2008, where he was chief resident from 2007-2008. He completed his fellowship in Asthma and Allergy at Louisiana State University Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana in 2012 and joined Mississippi Asthma & Allergy Clinic in July of the same year.

Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Murray worked as an urgent care pediatrician in Chattanooga, Tennessee from 2008-2010.

Dr. Murray is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Allergy & Immunology.

A native of Huntsville, Alabama, Dr. Murray is married with two children.

On Behalf of Mississippi Asthma and Allergy Clinic and myself, I am honored to have been voted as one the Top Doctors here on the Coast.

OMAN

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Dr. Nicholas Conger

What others say: “He works nonstop caring for his many patients and serving as the COVID expert and resource for Memorial and the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast. He makes himself easily accessible to all who seek his advice and has the best bedside manner of any physician I have en countered in my 32 years as a nurse. He chose to live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast after his military career, and we are grateful and lucky that he did.”

NEPHROLOGY

Dr. Douglas Lanier

What others say: “Dr Lanier has a lifelong bond with his patients and their families. He cares deeply for his patients, and his passion for healthcare is superior to all others. He cared for my father for more than 10 years. During that time, he became a friend and confi dant. Dr. Lanier celebrated with my father when he overcame hurdles, and he assisted me when I had to make the most difficult decisions of my life. My family will forever feel grateful for the stellar healthcare pro vided my Dr. Lanier.”

NEUROLOGY

Dr. Lennon Bowen IV

What others say: “Great per sonality, so good at making patient’s feel comfortable.”

NEUROSURGERY

Dr. Eric H. Wolfson

What others say: “Fantastic surgeon! Helped me to be able to walk normally again.”

OBSTETRICS

(two doctors tied in this category)

Dr. Julius Bosco, Jr.

What others say: “Dr. Bosco is a great doctor who actually listens to you.”

Dr. Nestor K. Delgado

What others say: “Dr Delga do is a very great doctor! He made me feel great through my whole pregnancy and when he delivered my baby. He answered any questions and was always concerned when I thought something was wrong.”

ONCOLOGY

Dr. Pamela Tuli

What others say: “Over my 34 years of living, I have never met another physician that is more intelligent and knowledge able, with a constant display of kindness, than Dr. Tuli. She is extremely caring of all her patients and shows great patience.

OPTHALMOLOGY

Dr. Johneen Gilich

What others say: “Dr. Gilich is great! Her staff is very helpful and kind as well! She took the time to explain the answers to my questions and a bit more! I am very grateful for her and her team! This is my new eye care home! Thank you all for such a wonderful experience!”

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Dr. Philip Myers

What others say: “Dr. Myers is a devoted orthopedist with ex tensive experience that brings with it several skillsets we need on the Coast. He brings our community a much-needed set of skills in the field of hand surgery. His training at a lev el-one trauma center for hand injuries has given him a wealth of knowledge to optimize patient outcomes. Also new to the coast, Myers brings min imally invasive anterior total hip arthroplasty, which allows patients to recover more quick ly after major hip replacement. Furthermore, Dr. Myers plans to provide comprehensive care for sports injuries, shoulder/ elbow pathology, foot/ankle problems and all other general orthopaedic concerns.”

OTHER - CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

Dr. Randy Roth

What others say: “Dr. Ran dy Roth is the chief medical officer of Singing River Health System, as well as the medical director of inpatient physician services. … He’s the most com passionate doctor. He makes time for his patients and their families and always puts them first. “

OTOLARYNGOLOGY

Dr. Vincent J. Pisciotta

What others say: “Caring and compassionate.”

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Dr. Kelly M. Coleman

What others say: “Dr. Coleman does pain management and injections for patients all over the Coast. I have seen how car ing he is towards his patients and what a difference his spe cialty has made in the quality of life for patients.”

PEDIATRICS

Dr. Tamara W. Harper

What others say: “Dr. Harper is board certified by the Amer ican Academy of Pediatrics. While she is from Moss Point, she currently is proud to pro vide care in Gulfport. She grad uated from Xavier University with a bachelor’s in chemistry. She completed an internship at University of South Alabama Pediatrics, and she held a medical doctorate residency at USA College of Medicine. Dr. Harper is a lifelong resident of the Coast. Previously, she spent five years at USA Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Mobile, Alabama. Dr. Harper is married to Dr. Oswego Harper.”

PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Anna Pavlov

What others say: “Dr. Pavlov is an excellent surgeon. She cares for her patients and performs surgeries that give women (and men) the self-confidence everyone should feel. She’s supportive and knowledgeable and honest with her profes sional opinions regarding body contouring changes requested by her patients.”

PODIATRIST

Dr. Bernard J. Meadows

What others say: “I have diabe tes, and Dr Meadows has been wonderful, as I have many issues with my feet. His staff is caring and work hard to make sure you are doing well. Would recommend him to everyone.”

PRIMARY CARE

Dr. Tana Cooper

What others say: “I’ve found Dr. Cooper to be the most thorough and knowledgeable provider I’ve ever seen. She is very passionate about her pro fession and strives to improve patient care.”

PSYCHIATRY/

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Dr. Donna Burrowes

What others say: “Dr. Burrow

es has not only made a huge impact on the lives of veterans in our community, but she also has a heart for children with special needs. I have seen her, time and time again, go above and beyond when advocating for her clients and others in our community. She is an absolute ly wonderful person, and our community is better for having her with us.”

PULMONOLOGY

Dr. Summer Allen

What others say: “Amazing doctor who truly cares about her patients.”

RADIOLOGY

Dr. Leena Pande

What others say: “She is knowledgeable, respected and always puts her patients first.”

RHEUMATOLOGY

Dr. Richa Gupta

What others say: “I have had several rheumatologists, and Dr. Gupta rises above the rest.”

UROLOGY

Dr. Paul J. Shannon

What others say: “Dr. Shannon is a phenomenal doctor. He is calm, understanding and allows the patient to actively participate in the treatment plan. He is very easy to talk with. He is a great listener and explains clearly each step of the treatment process. He makes the tests as comfortable as possible and makes the pa tient feel completely at ease.”

VASCULAR/BLOOD HEALTH

Dr. Joseph Graham

What others say: “He’s a skilled, caring and compassionate doctor who goes above and beyond for all patients. Pa tients feel at ease with him, and he is calm and in control of all situations. We are blessed to have him at our facility.”

VETERINARY MEDICINE

Dr. Jason Gulas

What others say: “He is a cham pion for furry and feathered friends. As owner of Fur Baby’s Veterinary Hospital, he truly is a compassionate individual, of ten taking in strays until fosters can be found.”

BLOOMING

Happy Hearts Healthy Minds&

LINDSAY THIBODEAUX,

Specializes in grief and loss, mental health, caregiver support, burnout.

DR. VALERIE JOINER, LCSW

Specializes in trauma, mental health, children and adolescent therapies.

Dr. Joiner has provided high-quality mental wellness services to thousands in her 18 years as a Psychotherapist. Her focus, diligence, and genuine passion for quality mental health care are evident in every interaction.

PATIENTS.

GULF COAST WEIGHT LOSS AND AESTHETICS 10241 Boney Avenue, Ste. E | D’Iberville, MS 39540 | 228-967-7651

GYNECOLOGY

OBSTETRICS | AESTHETICS

Our team of Board Certified Physicians, Advanced Practitioners, and Support Healthcare Professionals are dedicated to providing primary, preventative and acute care to women from adolescence to seniors.

“For the first time in my life, I feel like I’m finally heading in the right direction. The staff is kind, thorough, and listens to your thoughts and concerns. I feel comfortable that I’m in the right hands”

— Connie Balentine

Although they are both doctors, Drs. Tim and Tracy Sanford were mindful not to push their kids into a medical career.

Nonetheless, their two children, Drs. Laura and Mitch Sanford, have followed in their parents’ footsteps anyway, and all four are now board-certified family medicine providers affiliated with Memorial Health System.

“They always told us they would be proud of me and Mitchell no matter what we decided to do, as long as we found something we loved and did it to the best of our ability…,” Laura recalls. “In addition, both my parents always made me and my brother a priority and kept a healthy work-life balance.”

In doing so, Tim and Tracy showed them that being a doctor didn’t have to be all-consuming. This example made an equally strong impression on Mitch.

“My sister and I saw my parents practicing medicine and the effect it was having on people’s lives in the community, with people frequently saying ‘hello’ (at) the supermarket and thanking them for taking care of their spouse, parents, children or themselves,” he says.

Neither Tim nor Tracy began their professional lives in the health care field. Both graduated from Mississippi State University, and Tracy was as a high school science teacher in West Point, Mississippi, while Tim spent six years working as an engineer.

When it came time for Tim to choose his college senior project, a trusted professor suggested he analyze blood

Healing runs in the family

Four members of the Sanford clan serve Coast community as doctors

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

flow through the kidney.

“His rationale was something which has stuck with me ever since, that it is important to take what you know and what you have learned, and then apply it to new problems,” he says. “Working on that project opened my eyes to the incredible thing that is the human body.”

Tracy’s path to becoming a doctor can be traced back to her childhood.

“When I was 5 years old, my brother accidentally ran me over in the family station wagon, so I was in the hospital for months,” she recalls. “Then, when I was 10 years old, my 19-year-old sister died of a medical problem that could have been avoided. I think both of those things were pivotal in my interest in practicing medicine.”

The couple attended the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine while at the same time raising two young children. They went on to own and operate their own private practice in Oklahoma for 17 years before moving to work in southeast Oklahoma, where the younger two Sanfords were completing their residencies.

The large, modern medical facility there was the referral center for the entire Choctaw Nation, and Tracy was the associate program director of the residency program while Tim worked in the family medicine department.

“Getting trained by my mother as a resident was really neat,” Mitch says, “and I got to enjoy eating lunch together and having my siblings stay overnight to play games and watch videos on some

weekends.”

Mitch had decided to pursue medicine by the time he was in seventh grade influenced not only by his parents, but by the excellent care his grandmother had received as she battled cancer. Both he and his sister remember working in their parents’ clinic during their formative years, filing papers and organizing medicine samples.

The siblings attended the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences in Tulsa, and after Mitch finished his residency, the Sanfords decided to relocate to be closer to relatives. Their new home had to have a good school system for their three adopted siblings, ages 13, 10, and 8, who still live at home. An opportunity arose on the Coast that allowed them to all work together.

“We love practicing with our kids!” Laura exclaims. “Being able to brainstorm difficult cases with each other and celebrate or commiserate with true understanding when needed is a wonderful thing. We each have areas of medicine that we particularly enjoy and excel at, and we take advantage of each other’s knowledge base.”

Laura is equally excited about what the future holds and what the four doctors can achieve through their collective talents and knowledge. “I think that working together and combining our interests and skills makes us better doctors and a better team for patient care.”

DR. SHELIA RIVERS, DSW, LCSW, MPH

Owner and Chief Therapist

Dr. Shelia Rivers is a licensed certified social worker (LCSW). She provides counseling services for individuals, children and adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups.

Rivers holds a bachelor-of-science degree in psychology and education, master’s degrees in social work and public health, executive administration, and a doctor-of-social-work degree. She is licensed in Mississippi, Alabama and

Being a licensed certified social worker gives Rivers great pleasure. It allows her an opportunity to share her gift of therapy with many who are struggling with mental illness and daily life trials. Watching people grow by implementing healthier coping skills, changing thought processes, empowerment and encouragement is one of life’s most rewarding careers.

Rivers considers it her duty to remain passionate about this helping profession defined as social work. She looks forward to making an amazing impact on her community, families and the lives of individuals she serves.

Rivers Psychotherapy Services, PLLC

417 Security Square | Gulfport, MS 39507 (707) 728-5131 Business | (601) 348-1083 Google Voice

We bring healing HOME.

At Deaconess Homecare it’s all about helping people. Our local nurses, therapists, and support staff deliver the high-quality care you need in the comfort of home.

Call us today at 228.539.3636 to see if home health is right for you.

Ashley Bourgeois, PA-C | Dr. Michele Hughes, M.D. F.A.A.D. | Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, M.D. F.A.A.D. | Robin Balius, Licensed Aesthetician

Premier Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, PLLC has been serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 2013. Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Michele Hughes and Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, provide a full range of services to their patients. Premier Dermatology is a full-service Dermatology Clinic. We treat patients of all ages with a variety of skin conditions. Psoriasis, acne, allergic contact dermatitis, full body skin checks are just some of the many diagnoses we treat. Dr. Hughes is also a Mohs Surgeon. Mohs micrographic surgery is a procedure that has proven to be the most effective treatment for complex skin cancers such as Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. This type of procedure is done in a comfortable setting in the office with requiring general anesthesia.

Our Physician Assistant, Ashley Bourgeois PA-C not only treats patients for medical conditions, she also offers several laser services as well. Ashley performs Laser Hair Removal and ResurFX which is a non ablative laser for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition she offers IPL laser which is an excellent treatment for brown spots, sun damage, rosacea, and melasma.

For women that struggle with stress incontinence, Ashley also offers Votiva. Votiva is a Radio Frequency treatment used to tighten the muscles of the pelvic floor. This treatment also offers a nonsurgical form of labiaplasty and vaginal rejuvenation.

If you are in need of some pampering, Premier Dermatology also offers many specialized treatments to meet your needs. Robin Balius, our Licensed Aesthetician, has many years of experience in the skin care industry. Robin specializes in Dermaplane for a manual exfoliation to remove surface debris, vellous hair and dead skin as well as Hydrafacial to help cleanse, extract and hydrate your skin to create a gratifying glow. We offer several types of peels, Eyelash and Eyebrow tinting, spray tans, Morpheus 8 Microneedling, Cool Sculpting, Body Sculpting procedures and many more. If you want a relaxing facial or a series of body tightening, we can provide you with the professional services to meet your needs. Please call for a free consultation. Along with our services, we carry a wide range of medical grade skin care products and sunscreens including Neocutis, ZO, Elta MD, Skin Better Science, Latisse and SkinCeuticals.

Dr. Pressley-Wallace obtained her medical degree from LSU School of Medicine New Orleans. She completed her residency at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences and her Pediatric Gastroenterology fellowship at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

She became a Pediatric Gastroenterologist due to a love for treating kids and a passion for gastroenterological diseases. Her goal as a physician is not only to cure but assist in the healing of their overall wellbeing. She specializes in eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory bowel disease.

Her biggest success has been empowering underserved areas through mentorship, education and community involvement. In 2004 she developed a college preparatory mentorship program at her church.

She has presented health topics at various Mississippi community events as well as WLOX news. She has also been awarded Power Up Summit Healthcare Person of the Year, named Gulf Coast Woman’s Coast Top Doctor Gastroenterologist and featured in Gulf Coast Mom.

She enjoys eating seafood, exercising and going fishing with her 4 kids and supportive husband.

DR.

Test your knowledge with our women’s health quiz

Think you’re well versed on the top women’s health dangers? Some of the facts may surprise you. Test your knowledge about the diseases that pose the biggest threat to females by answering the questions below, then turn the page to see the answers (no peeking!).

When we think about a cancer that affects women, breast cancer will come to mind for most of us, and for good reason: About one in eight U.S. women (roughly 13 percent) will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime, according to breastcancer.org. However, another type of cancer is diagnosed in 2 million people per year. What type of cancer is this — the most common type among men and women nationwide?

This is the biggest health danger to both men and women, but the condition often affects women differently. Their symptoms may include indigestion, shortness of breath and back pain rather than chest pain and other classic signs men typically experience.

The incidence of this condition has tripled globally since 1975, according to the World Health Organization, and it affects over 13 percent of adults 18 and over. Some of the health problems it can cause include breathing problems, several types of cancer, high blood pressure and many other issues. A blood glucose disease commonly associated with this condition also is on the rise.

All of us feel down at times, but for those with this mental health ailment, every day can be a struggle. Certain biological, hormonal and social factors make women more susceptible to this condition. In fact, a reported one in eight women experience it in their lifetime, which is twice the rate of men. Although this is a mood disorder, it can manifest physically, causing symptoms like aches, pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems.

This degenerative bone condition is most common in older women, affecting one in four females aged 65 and older. It’s often called a “silent disease” because symptoms may not manifest before a fracture occurs. Breaks are most common in the hips, wrists and spine, and those with fractures in the vertebrae may show signs such as back pain, hunched posture, sloping shoulders or a curve in the back.

According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 80 different types of conditions fall into this category, affecting about 30 million women in the U.S. What they have in common is that they attack healthy cells and can affect almost any type of tissue, structure, function or system of the body.

Yekaterina Karpitskaya, M.D.

Among other titles such as wife, mom, athlete, community volunteer, and Air Force veteran, Dr. Yekaterina Karpitskaya is a successful Orthopaedic Surgeon for Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists. Born in Simferopol, Crimea, USSR (now a part of Russia), her family immigrated to St. Louis, Missouri when she was 15 years old. Although her family arrived in the states with nothing but their dog, clothing, and $700, Dr. Karpitskaya went on to graduate early as valedictorian in a class of more than 700 to serving as an officer in the Air Force and completing her medical residency at UCLA.

resilient. My role as provider, surgeon, wife, and mother is complex, but my supportive husband and great practice partners make it possible,” commented Dr. Karpitskaya.

with an orthopaedic surgeon, call 228-230-BONE (2663)

“Entering the field of orthopaedic surgery, male or female, you have to be prepared to work hard, make sacrifices, and be

Dr. Karpitskaya joined Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists in 2011 and sees patients in both the Biloxi and Gautier offices. As an orthopaedic surgeon with a specialization in sports medicine, and as a long time endurance athlete, she has firsthand knowledge of injury and prevention. Dr. Karpitskaya performs a variety of surgeries ranging from joint replacements to knee and shoulder surgeries to some hand and elbow surgery and trauma. “If you set your sights on it and work hard, anything is possible,” added Dr. Karpitskaya.

BienvilleSurgeryCenter.com

Bienville Surgery Center | Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists | 6300 East Lake Boulevard, Gautier, MS

Answers to our women’s health quiz

How did you do? These are only a handful of the numerous conditions that can pose a threat to women’s health. Proper, regular screening is important (for example, make sure to get a mammogram every year starting at age 40), as are developing healthy lifestyle habits and developing relationships with medical professionals you can trust.

Skin cancer – Women 49 or younger have a higher probability of developing melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, than any other cancer, except breast or thyroid cancer, according to John’s Hopkins Medicine. Especially for those of us living in sunny, hot climates like South Mississippi, it’s important to protect yourself while outdoors by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and scheduling an annual checkup with a dermatologist.

Heart disease — Cardiovascular disease causes one in three deaths each year and is the number-one killer of women. Life events unique to females, including pregnancy and menopause, can impact their risk. Although this condition kills more women than all forms of cancer combined, according to the American Heart Association, only 44 percent of women recognize cardiovascular disease as their greatest health threat. The good news? Cardiac and stroke events are largely preventable through education and lifestyle changes, such as moving more, eating better and managing blood pressure.

Obesity and diabetes — A reported onethird of U.S. adults are obese, which is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Of the nearly 26 million Americans affected by obesity, women account for almost half the cases. Excess weight makes someone twice as likely to develop diabetes, and the combined threats of diabetes and obesity put someone at greater risk for deadly conditions like heart and kidney disease and stroke. Changes in diet and increased physical activity can help manage your risk.

Depression — Although the causes of depression still are being studied, research suggests that it is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Additionally, certain types of depression can occur at different stages of a woman’s life, including pregnancy, the postpartum period and perimenopause. It’s important to remember that those suffering with depression can’t just “snap out of it.” Those struggling with this mood disorder need support and compassion from loved ones. Medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two can be effective forms of treatment.

Osteoporosis — This condition causes bones to be weak and break easily, and age is a major risk factor. Estrogen plays an important role in building and maintaining bones, and estrogen levels drop due to menopause. In fact, some women lose up to 25 percent of their bone mass in the first 10 years after menopause, according to the Office on Women’s Health. Prevention starts when women are younger, so make sure to get enough calcium and Vitamin D each day and engage in weight-bearing physical activity that strengthens your bones. Doctors typically treat osteoporosis with medication that prevents further bone loss or builds new bone mass.

Autoimmune diseases — For those with these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks normal cells because it can’t distinguish them from foreign invaders. Some autoimmune diseases run in families, like lupus and multiple sclerosis. Some other types include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Addison’s disease and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Although these conditions generally aren’t preventable, they can be managed with a variety of medications depending on the disease, its severity and the symptoms.

MEMORIAL

FOR WOMEN ON THE COAST

Introducing Our NEW Women’s Health Aesthetician CARRI DODGE LICENSED ESTHETICIAN

Carri is originally from Memphis, TN, but has been living on the Coast for 3 years and loves it. Carri has been in the beauty industry for 15+ years and has been a licensed esthetician since 2015.

Now seeing patients at the GULFPORT LOCATION. Please call 228-341-7879 to schedule an appointment today!

By: Dr. Zein Obagi

OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752

OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 306, BILOXI: 228-822-6368

THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. AMANDA STERLING, MSN, WHNP-BC

My life-changing breast cancer journey

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2022:

About 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women  About 43,250 women will die from breast cancer

On average, a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer is about 13 percent. If you haven’t battled the disease yourself, it’s likely that someone close to you has or will in her lifetime.

All woman affected by breast cancer have a unique story to tell, each underscored by perseverance and courage. Here, two Coast women open up about how the disease has impacted their lives.

MICHELLE ELLERBY’S STORY

Michelle

is an IEP (individualized educational plan) coach and autism advocate. She is married to Mitchell Ellerby Jr. and is mom to a 12-yearold son, Mitchell Ellerby III. As the mother of a son with autism spectrum disorder, a significant part of her life is spent serving as the voice for autism and special needs in Mississippi Gulf Coast communities.

What is your family’s history with breast cancer?

My mother and three of her sisters were diagnosed with and passed away from breast cancer. Living with Alzheimer’s at the age of 73, my mother was diagnosed with stage-four breast cancer in February of 2020. She passed away on March 4, 2020.

What steps did you decide to take to mitigate your own risk?

Due to several abnormal mammograms, more frequent mammograms and a strong family history, I started the process of getting genetic testing to see if I carried the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 mutation. Those mutations are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. I do not have BRCA-1 or BRCA-2. However, I do have a strong family history of breast cancer.

After receiving the results of my testing, I determined that I have a 39 percent chance that I will develop breast cancer. After many discussions with my husband, I made the decision to have my breasts removed.

What did you do, and why did you make this decision?

In April of this year, I had a prophylactic double mastectomy, which is the removal of both breasts to prevent the development of breast cancer. I chose to have a mastectomy because of my 12-year-old son. The decision I made was very personal and required undergoing an intense surgery and recovery.

If anyone criticized my choice, I wasn’t aware of it. If anything, I had encouragement from my family members and close friends. It required a lot of research, medical consultations and, most importantly, prayer, to make the final decision.

Recently, after the recovery from the second phase of my surgery and for the first time, I said to my husband, “I always felt I would most likely get breast cancer.” He was my biggest supporter and the best caregiver. He cared for our son, getting him ready for school. He prepared my meals, helped me with showering and getting in and out of bed, recorded and emptied my drains and made sure I was on schedule with my medications.

I am not risk-free for cancer; however, this drastically reduces my chance of getting breast cancer. I am known as a “previvor,” someone who is at a greater risk for developing cancer due to an inherited condition or strong family history.

Is there anything you wish you would have known going into the procedure?

My extensive research and several consultations with the medical team performing my surgeries prepared me, so I knew what to expect.

Would you do the procedure over again. Why or why not?

I would have a prophylactic double mastectomy over again. Knowing that I made the decision to prevent being diagnosed with the disease that took my mother from me, as well as taking the lives of her three sisters, gives me a peace of mind.

What message or words of advice do you have for other women? For others who are considering the same steps to mitigate their risk?

If would be my pleasure to share my journey with anyone facing the dreaded

question: “Will this be the year I get a breast cancer diagnosis?” Find a support group; it can be your family or your friends. In my case, it was a friend/mother figure, who also made the decision years ago to have her breast removed and was a huge support to me.

What have you learned and gained from being on this journey? How has it changed you and your life?

On my journey, I learned that no matter how many medical consultations, or how much research I’ve done or how many discussions I’ve had with others, the final decision was totally up to me. I have become an advocate for me. I became an advocate to save my life from a disease that took several strong women in my family away from me and their children.

How do you feel about yourself and your decision today?

This journey has made me think about other ways I can make improvements for a healthy lifestyle. I see my decision as more time added to my life so I can see my handsome “SONshine,” Mitchell, grow into the extraordinary man I know he will become and grow old with my husband.

The future is now, Dentistry

NO MORE MESSY IMPRESSIONS

Our investment in the 3 Shape scanner revolutionizes the accuracy of impressions.

WE ARE A LASER FOCUSED CLINIC

Better results come with technology. Lasers are changing the world of dentistry.

Clear Aligners

the path to a beautiful smile.

DR. CHARLES

YOUR #FOOTHEALTH EXPERT

Charles A. Caplis, DPM, FACFAOM, AACFAS

Growing up in the South, Dr. Caplis traveled throughout Mississippi, Texas, and Louisiana playing competitive soccer, which led to playing collegiate soccer at Louisiana Tech University. He had several sports-related injuries, which began his understanding of just how important the foot and ankle are to your health and abilities. He graduated with honors from Centenary College of Louisiana with a Bachelor of Science degree. He earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine degree from Dr. William M. School College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. During his medical school education, he also worked treating participants at the Chicago Marathon, Triathlon, and the three-day Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk. He later completed a highly intense three year residency in Chicago where he served as Chief Podiatric Surgery Resident.

Dr. Caplis offers an array of foot and ankle services including specializing in sports medicine and foot surgery along with diabetic wound care.

He offers in house X-ray, blood flow testing, nerve testing, custom fitting orthotics, braces along with an extensive diabetic shoe program. Dr. Caplis traveled to San Salvador, El Salvador on a medical mission offering free conservative and surgical treatment while in residency for patients with clubfeet and other foot deformities. Dr. Caplis is a member of the MS Podiatric Medical Association serving as Board Secretary. The association provides professional support for the field and currently advocates to increase the scope of practice in Mississippi.

He is a loving father who takes an active role with his son, Ethan. His passion for the arts has led him to become a voting board member of the St. Tammany Parish Commission on Cultural Affairs.

GCI Radiology, PLLC is a private Diagnostic Radiology practice offering imaging interpretations to clinics and providers of all specialties and tailored to the specific needs of each practice.

Visit our website to discover one of the many locations our interpretation services are available or to find out how your practice can partner with GCI Radiology.

DR. LISA M. SMITH, M.D.

Diagnostic Radiologist Breast Imaging Fellowship - Emory University School of Medicine

(228) 731.7114 | WWW.GCIRADIOLOGY.COM Connect with us @gciradiology during Breast Cancer Month.

We are the doctors that

mean!

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE WOMENS CLINIC

TONYA HENDERSON is a native of Detroit, Michigan. Tonya practices as a board-certified OB/GYN provider on the coast for greater than 12 years within the Department of Defense Health System. She proudly serves our country as a Lieutenant Colonel currently at 81st Training Wing Keesler Air Force Base. Tonya also holds privileges at Memorial at Gulfport Hospital as a credentialed OBHG laborist. In her practice, she provides subspecialty inpatient, outpatient, and emergency healthcare services to beneficiaries on the Gulf Coast.

Tonya is enthusiastic about using her skills to enrich the community around her. She is Co-founder and Medical Director of Extends, a women’s clinic for uninsured, homeless, and low-income women serving Gulfport and Biloxi communities with the goal of expanding to Ocean Springs in near future.

In her spare time, Tonya enjoys traveling and enjoying a nice dinner with her husband, Blake, or staying at home watching a good movie with her children, Mario, Blake, Brooklynn, Bailey, and Benjamin.

Tonya is a member of Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi Ocean Springs and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. Tonya is a proud member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, Mississippi Gulf Coast Alumnae Chapter.

Tonya is a committed member of the Gulf Coast community and is honored to serve the women who live here!

My life-changing breast cancer journey

ADRIENNE ELLIOTT’S STORY

Adrienne

is director of design and style for Elliott Homes and owner and founder of Styled, a virtual interior styling service. She has been married to her husband, Brandon, for 13 years, and they have three girls.

What is your diagnosis? When and how did you receive it?

(My diagnosis is) lobular carcinoma, stage one. Last year, I had a mammogram done, and it was clear. I opted to have pathology done when I had a breast lift on June 9, thinking nothing of it because of my clear mammogram.

At my one-week post-op checkup, the surgeon told me I had breast cancer. At that point, all he could tell me was the type of cancer and that it was early. They had no idea if it had spread. From that point, I saw an oncologist very quickly, who gave me two options: bilateral mastectomy or lumpectomy with radiation. This type of cancer posed the risk of spreading to my other breast, so although I just underwent surgery a week before, they suggested I opt for the mastectomy to rule out any future risk.

Three weeks later, I followed their advice. They removed lymph nodes during my surgery, too, which I am extremely grateful to say were negative.

Did you show any symptoms?

I did not have a single symptom or suspicion, mainly due to the clear mammogram last year.

What was your reaction? What was your loved ones’ reaction?

(It was) complete shock and fear. You never think you will hear the “c” word, especially at age 37 with three young girls. When I was in the doctor’s office, I was on my own, so I had to make myself focus. When I got into my car, I definitely had a very long and deep cry. I was 1.5 hours away from home, and looking back, I am extremely grateful I had that time to process and get “unstuck” from that moment. On that drive, a feeling came over me of knowing that down the road, I was meant to share my story, but I did not know how or why.

My husband, Brandon, supported me in a way only he could from the minute I told

him — strong, understanding and beyond willing to help in all aspects of the journey. He came to every appointment. My mom, who is also a survivor, was emotional support on a level beyond a mother — a survivor and a guardian angel. My dad and brother showed up for additional emotional strength and support from miles away.

With Brandon’s encouragement, we shared with our girls that mommy had cancer. Each had her own reaction. It was important for us to show them that this is real life and how we get through it as a family. They loved and cared for me in the most precious ways.

Family and friends were beyond incredible even on the day of my surgery. I am just so grateful.

How did you process the news, and how did you decide what your approach would be?

I had a few people with whom I was very open with my emotions. From the day I found out, I told myself I needed to be open with how I was feeling so those around me could understand. In the first few days, it was almost easier to not be around the girls. I would break down and cry because I was very anxious and scared.

As I learned more, I shared with more people. I found it easier to tell people when I had more facts. To be honest, I knew nothing about breast cancer, so I was learning a lot quickly. I knew I had to be strong, but I also was not ashamed to say to those closest when I was breaking inside. You feel so out of control.

What treatments have you undergone, and what is your prognosis?

I am on a hormone blocker because I am estrogen positive. Thankfully this is my only treatment, which they are recommending for 10 years.

What message or words of advice do you have for other women?

Be authentic to the rush of emotions you are feeling; express them when you

need to. Know there is hope. Be open to communicating to help you heal. Reach out to other women, and you will be amazed at how many others are going through or have been through breast cancer.

How has this journey changed you?

I had no choice but to slow down, listen to my heart and feel the positive energy and thoughts. Many women reached out and said the journey is just as emotional as it is physical. It brought me back to taking the time to meditate and center my heart.

Have you wanted to give up? How have you pushed forward?

No, I feel extreme gratitude for my journey. Friends and family where there to assure me I did not have to be “OK.” Today, I just want to share a story of hope and education.

How do you feel about yourself and approach your condition today?

Of course, (I feel) extreme gratitude. I think (I am) motivated that our girls were able to see our family get through this as a unit. Hopefully, I’m an inspiration to others to seek early detection.

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

Dr. Watts is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She went to medical school in Shreveport, Louisiana, and completed her OB/GYN residency training in Memphis, Tennessee. For the last ten years, she has practiced in North Mississippi. Dr. Watts is excited to live on the coast with her husband, Chris. She enjoys being able to make a large impact on women’s lives at all ages, especially during adolescence, the reproductive years, and later in life. She is Board Certified and has been a Diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology since 2015. In her free time, Dr. Watts enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and traveling. She performs 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

Dr. Wheeler

Dr. Cameron Wheeler graduated from the University of Virginia with a BA with distinction in Philosophy and as a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. She went on to medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina where she obtained her doctorate of medicine. During her years at MUSC, she was elected into Alpha Omega Alpha honor society and was named first honor graduate and Outstanding Ob/Gyn Medical Student of her class. She then traveled to Ohio to complete her OB/Gyn residency at Ohio State University. At graduation, she was honored as the General OB/Gyn Department Chief Resident of the Year by her faculty and peers.

Dr. Wheeler is originally from Boston but moved to the Gulf Coast in 2022 with her husband, Tom, who is a pediatrician at Keesler AFB. They live in Ocean Springs. In her free time, Dr. Wheeler loves to cook, read, travel, and spend time hiking and exploring National Parks around the country. She has special interest in family planning and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, including robotics.

TO DO OR NOT

If you are not only feeling your age, but also looking it, it may be time to consider neurotoxin injections such as Botox, Dysport, or Jeuveau. If you’ve been on the fence about getting a neurotoxin treatment, this article might give you more information so you can make a decision that’s best for you. Let’s address the most common neurotoxin questions I hear in my practice.

“How does it work?” Botulinum toxin blocks signals between nerves. This decreases muscle contractions leading to less wrinkles. It takes approximately 90 days for the nerves to regenerate, which is about how long the neurotoxin lasts before needing another treatment.

“Am I putting poison in my body?” Well, technically yes, but.. Botulinum toxin AKA Botox, Dysport, or Jeuveau, is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. (If that sounds scary, think about what bacteria hangs out in our favorite cheeses.) Furthermore, the amount of botulinum toxin that is injected for cosmetic purposes is incredibly miniscule

1009 Tommy Munro

Ste.

Biloxi, MS 39532

compared to the amount necessary to cause actual botulism.

“What if I don’t want to look fake?” You don’t have to. When performed by a skilled professional, you can achieve natural looking results. My goal for my patients is to keep them guessing. Look refreshed, not overdone.

“What if I am terrified of needles?” These injections do not require any topical anesthesia. The needles are tiny and the process takes seconds to perform.

“What if I don’t have time?” Sure you do. It’s a quick and convenient appointment. It takes about 10 minutes to discuss the treatment and answer any questions. The procedure is done in less than a minute.

“How do I know if I’m a candidate?” If you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, you are a candidate. If you do not suffer from neurological conditions such as myasthenia gravis or multiple sclerosis, you are a candidate. If you are not allergic to ingredients in Botox, Dysport, or Jeuveau, you are a candidate.

For more information, talk to your trained injector to find out if the procedure is right for you.

Unknown

Marisa Stringer, NP-C, CANS

“If it makes you feel beautiful, then do it.”

MSN, WHNP-BC,

Amanda’s many years of nursing experience include a primary focus on maternal-child nursing, including labor & delivery, postpartum, gynecology, newborn nursery, pediatrics, OB-GYN clinic, and maternal-fetal medicine. She is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and values her role in helping mothers and babies with their breastfeeding journeys.

Specializing in LIFETIME CARE for Women

Adolescent Health | Well-woman Exams

Breast Cancer Screening & Problem Evaluation

PAP Smears | HPV Screening

Health and Wellness Counseling | Contraceptive Care

Certified

Ultrasound Board Certified

STD Screening & Treatment | Pregnancy Testing Preconception Care | Prenatal Visits Postpartum Care | Menstruation Issues Fertility Evaluation | Lactation consultation

Now seeing patients at both the BILOXI AND GULFPORT LOCATIONS. Please call to schedule an appointment today!

OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752

OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 306, BILOXI: 228-822-6368

THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G.

My life-changing breast cancer journey

Shocked but not scared:

ONE LEADER’S BREAST CANCER JOURNEY

FROM MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM

KathySpringer is always on the move. As CEO of United Way of South Mississippi, a devoted volunteer for nonprofit and civic organizations and a dedicated mom, wife and friend, she only knows one speed — fast.

The day she was scheduled to receive her mammogram was a busy one, as usual.

“It’s never a good time, but I went,” Springer recalls. “I’m sure everyone thinks about rescheduling, but I ran in and ran out. Never in my wildest dreams did I think there was anything there because I couldn’t feel it.”

The next day, Springer received a request to repeat the mammogram. Then, she learned she had breast cancer.

“This is the sorority you never want to be in,” Springer says of her diagnosis. “It was a complete surprise.”

The first thing she asked her oncologist, Dr. Allison Wall, was, “Am I going to die?” — to which Dr. Wall replied, “No, you’re not going to die. We’re going to take this step by step and work through it.”

POWERED BY PURPOSE

“Honestly, I was not afraid. To this day I haven’t cried, nor have I asked, ‘Why me?’” Springer says. “I truly believe that getting up in the morning and having purpose in your day is key to everything.”

She hasn’t missed a day of work since being diagnosed and starting treatment. She knows that this is not the case for everyone, and no two people have the same journey. She adds, “This is not who I am … this is something that happened to me.”

Springer’s family and her faith have helped her navigate the shock and see the upside of her diagnosis.

“My work family and friends have been extremely supportive, and they know more about breast cancer than they ever wanted to know,” she says.

GETTING PERSONAL CARE

Springer is grateful for her entire care team throughout her journey.

“I trust in my doctors,” she says. As for Dr. Wall, she adds, “For as many patients as she has, the care is extremely personal. When she is with you, she is tuned in, and she knows everything going on. There’s nothing off the table that you can’t talk to her about. She is open, honest and accessible.”

As she wages her battle, Springer issues this challenge to the community.

“Schedule your mammogram today,” she says. “What they found on my mammogram was not there a year ago.”

Mammograms are critical, and the American Cancer Society recommends beginning them at age 40. To learn more, scan the QR code below.

Memorial offers both primary care services and virtual visits. Learn more by visiting wearememorial.com or by calling (228) 867-5000.

This business was great to work with. I had several unexpected delays in finishing the house, and had to reschedule the move a few times. They were very understanding of my predicament. When moving day finally arrived they arrived and professionally unloaded a 26’ truck in less than three hours. I would highly recommend them for any moves to, or out of Mississippi.

James D. Wilson,

JOHN C. JAMES, Executive Director

BY JULIA GREEN

Did COVID cause you to lose hair? You’re not alone

FACTS ABOUT COVID AND HAIR LOSS

• According to one 2020 study in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, approximately one in 10 people infected with COVID-19 experienced hair shedding after the fact. Another study in the Lancet estimated that 22 percent of patients who were hospitalized with COVID experienced hair loss after their illness.

• It’s normal for patients to lose about 100 hairs a day. However, with telogen effluvium, patients could lose up to 300, 500 or even 1,000 hairs per day.

• According to some experts, someone may be completely recovered from COVID before noticing hair loss. They note that telogen effluvium typically doesn’t happen at the same time as the triggering event, so effects on the hair may not happen until two to three months later.

Has your hair been struggling since you contracted COVID?

By this time, many of us have had at least one run-in with the Rona. I have had many clients in my chair express concerns about dry, brittle and shedding hair, or even substantial hair loss, after experiencing COVID.

Hair shedding or loss after COVID generally is caused by telogen effluvium, a condition in which hair sheds in response to a stressor. Telogen effluvium, the most common type of generalized hair loss, can be triggered by viruses and may be a side effect of certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal abnormalities or stressful events.

So how do you address post-COVID hair loss or shedding and improve your overall hair health? Here are some helpful facts and tips:

• Don’t be alarmed. Telogen effluvium, whether caused by COVID-19 or another trigger, usually isn’t permanent. Shedding can occur for three to six months. The best thing you can do is wait it out and know that your body is in the process of regulating itself.

• Stress usually is the biggest culprit when it comes to hair loss — with or without COVID. Take steps to reduce your stress whenever possible, and take time to care for yourself.

• Do everything you can to minimize the risk of losing any more hair. Take a hiatus from heat styling. Switch to less damaging chemical services, and avoid tight hairstyles that put tension on the hair.

• If hair loss and shedding persist for more than three to six months, please schedule a blood panel appointment with your physician or dermatologist to check for nutritional and vitamin deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, or ask about medical treatments for chronic telogen effluvium.

If you’ve dealt with post-COVID hair loss or shedding, know that you’re not alone.

Julia Green is owner of LaBella’s Salon in Gulfport. Reach her at jgreen1472@icloud.com.

GOT FIVE MINUTES?

YOU CAN HAVE A STRONGER CORE

BY MARIA S. BARR

‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice, trips to the local farm for fun and maybe a candied apple or two. Speaking of apples, do you know how important your core is?

Your “core” generally refers to muscles in and around your torso that help move, support and stabilize your spine, trunk and pelvis. Core exercises train the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen to work in harmony. This leads to better balance and stability.

Let’s look at five exercises you should do daily to strengthen your core:

PLANK

Plank brings it all to the table, activating the shoulders, all layers of the abdominals and the glutes. Line your wrists up just under your shoulders. Take the knees down for a modification.

BRIDGING

With the hips extended, lift up to the ceiling and squeeze your seat. Keep knees in line with the ankles. Elevate the hips and keep the neck down.

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

SUPER WOMAN

This fun exercise gets a grip on the posterior (back) chain of the body. From the shoulders to the hamstrings and glutes, it’s designed to strengthen and improve the stabilization of your lumbar and hip extensors.

BIRD DOG

This works the erector spinae, rectus abdominis and glutes. This posture helps you work on control and stability of the whole body. It’s an ideal exercise to help develop good balance and posture.

SIDE PLANK

This fun variation of a standard plank focuses on the obliques and shoulders but helps to strengthen your lower back. You can do this on your forearm or with a straight arm. You can even bend the knees as a modification.

Commit to these five exercises for just five minutes a day. Spend one minute in each posture, and watch your core get stronger weekly. Be sure to eat a delicious fall apple this season, too! As the saying goes, one a day keeps the doctor away. Happy fall, y’all!

Go ahead, wear that dress!

Don’t let spider veins destroy your confidence

That favorite dress (you know the one) is just waiting to be pulled from your closet and worn for a special occasion. However, you may hesitate to put it on due to unsightly spider veins on your legs. So instead, you reluctantly grab your go-to pair of jeans.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Spider veins cause many women (and men) to feel embarrassed about showing off their legs. Oftentimes, spider veins also can cause discomfort like itching or burning. So, let’s talk about it.

WHAT ARE SPIDER VEINS?

Spider veins are those small vessels that may appear red, blue or purple and sometimes have a weblike appearance just under the skin.

WHAT CAUSES THEM?

Spider veins can have several causes. Aging, heredity, hormonal

changes, pregnancy, obesity and prolonged standing or sitting are all possible culprits.

HOW TO PREVENT THEM:

The good news is that there are a few steps you can take to minimize your risk of developing spider veins. Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle can help prevent the development of spider veins. Prolonged sun exposure can weaken the veins, so wearing sunscreen is never a bad idea. Compression stockings also help promote healthy circulation.

HOW TO GET RID OF THEM:

If you already have spider veins, the treatment is typically straightforward. Sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive office procedure, is safe and highly effective at erasing the appearance of spider veins. Your vein specialist injects the sclerotherapy solution into the

BY DR. KEITH THOMPSON

small spider vein, which closes it off — making it look and feel better. The vein eventually will dissolve naturally back into the body. Multiple sessions often are required to achieve the desired result.

So, get moving, and cultivate a healthy lifestyle and eating habits. If you have spider veins you want to address, contact a board-certified vein specialist to discuss your options.

Then, you can confidently wear that dress.

Dr. Keith Thompson at the Vein Insti tute in Hattiesburg is a board-certi fied, full-time vein specialist. Reach him at (601) 336-8368.

DR. DELPHINE SHANNON, MD

Bariatric Medicine

Dr. Shannon’s specialties are Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy BHRT, Sexual Health, Erectile Dysfunction ED, Obesity Medicine, Medical Weight Loss, and Non-Surgical Aesthetics Medicine. She is a 10 year member of the Obesity Medicine Association OMA as well as the Age Management Medicine Group AMMG and the Cellular Medicine Association CMA.

Using the peer-reviewed Obesity Algorithm, and the patented BioTE Hormone Optimization method, she and our other providers individualize our treatment programs to the patient’s medical needs. Dr. Shannon graduated from the USC Keck School of Medicine in 1999. She is a General Practitioner with specialized training and certifications in wellness, age management, hormone optimization, men’s sexual health, aesthetic medicine, and medical weight loss.

MORPHEUS8 SKIN REJUVENATION

Morpheus8 is our new full-body, non-surgical, anti-aging device that offers serious skin-tightening solutions because of the innovative addition of radiofrequency. For more information go to https://www.healthfitmd.com/morpheus8/

Is it a UTI?

How urine infections are diagnosed and treated

One in five women will have a urinary tract infection during her lifetime. These are more common in women than in men for two reasons: First, there’s a long distance between the bladder and the outside world for men, while the woman’s urethra is very short. In addition, that area in a woman is usually wet and often irritated, so it’s easier for bacteria to work their way into the bladder.

BY DR. PHILIP L. LEVIN

The symptoms of a urinary tract infection relate to the bladder irritation. The bladder tries to rid itself of infection by emptying often, called “frequency,” resulting in small voids and a sense of urgency. The irritated bladder sends nerve signals that are interpreted as low back pain.

The body fights infection by sending white blood cells to the site. Normal urine has no white blood cells, but infected urine will have many, noted as leukocytes or pus cells. Except in a hospital lab, most urine tests involve dipping in a little strip of plastic that has tiny patches of chemicalimbedded gauze along its length. Infection is diagnosed when certain readings are positive.

Urine infections often go away without the need for antibiotics. Some people treat theirs with cranberry juice, which seems to work by making the bladder slippery to the bacteria. A numbing medicine, phenazopyridine, sold over the counter as Azo or just “urinary pain relief,” numbs the bladder and can make the condition tolerable for a day or two. Because medicines often are concentrated in the bladder, these infections usually respond promptly to low-dose antibiotics.

The danger in ignoring bladder infections comes when the bacteria work their way up the urinary tract tubes into the kidneys. Infected kidneys cause fever and can lead to severe issues, such as sepsis. This is particularly dangerous if the kidneys can’t empty, say from an enlarged prostate or a kidney stone.

Most of the time, making the diagnosis and prescribing treatment is easy. The

patient has urinary tract infection symptoms, and the doctor confirms the infection with a dipstick and prescribes antibiotics; the patient ultimately improves. If the infection becomes severe, such as with fever or vomiting, the patient may need to be admitted to a hospital for IV antibiotics. Some patients are afflicted with recurrent infections, in which case a physician may recommend and prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to be taken every day as prevention.

Older people may exhibit only vague, atypical symptoms with their urine infections. With their health already fragile, a mild bladder infection can cause an elderly person to have low blood pressure and faint or perhaps become delirious. Even very young children can have urinary tract infections, so a crying baby with a fever should have her urine checked.

If infection settles into the man’s prostate, known as prostatitis, the symptoms mirror those of a urinary tract infection. Unlike the smooth surface of the bladder that easily clears infection, the prostate has multiple small channels and places for bacteria to hide. With prostatitis, a much longer course of antibiotics is necessary.

Sometimes the bladder wall becomes irritated, a condition called interstitial cystitis. The symptoms mimic infection with frequency, painful urination and urgency. However, the condition is not caused by infection, and no matter how many antibiotics are given, the patient won’t improve.

IC can be caused by various issues. Drinking too many colas is a common factor. Sometimes the patient has an autoimmune reaction, that is, the body thinks something on the bladder wall is foreign and ends up overreacting. Most of the time the cause can’t be found. The medical literature suggests treatments of anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen), antihistamines or tricyclic antidepressants, the latter relaxing the bladder spasms. I’ve found great success with low doses of oral steroids.

The symptoms of venereal disease also mimic urine infection. Chlamydia in women and gonorrhea in either gender causes burning during urination. Certain vaginal infections, particularly trichomonas, may be responsible as well. These infections all need antibiotic treatment, but with a different choice of medication.

Antibiotics have changed physicians’ abilities to cure disease, and urinary tract infections serve as a perfect example. A few pills not only provide comfort, but by preventing an infection from worsening, they can save lives. Several effective antibiotics are available, making properly treated bladder infections more of a temporary nuisance than a danger.

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

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR HEALTH, EVERY STEP COUNTS

How do you fit exercise into your hectic schedule and implement movement into your daily routine?

Let’s face it: When we are preparing for or getting home from a busy day, exercising is often the last thing we feel like doing. However, active movement does not have to be a hard task. It can be fun, and yes, there are so many benefits to taking care of ourselves physically.

I recently had a total knee replacement, and I was so nervous coming out of it — concerned about how I would get back to being “me” and resuming the activities I love. I had a very aggressive schedule of working with a physical therapist, as well as a regimen of daily exercises and stretches that my therapist had assigned me to do on my own.

The simplest tasks like walking were a struggle at the start of my recovery, but my father was my biggest inspiration. He is 87 and walks over 10,000 steps a day. We would walk together slowly, and I made progress every day. I pushed through and have found a new respect for true active movement. I strive to walk at least 10,000 steps a day and have come to appreciate a walk on the beach, a 30-minute cycle on the recumbent bike, a weightlifting session at the gym or a good swim even more. What’s your favorite way to work out?

Being active is important to a healthy lifestyle, and it’s essential for 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 pedometer or an activity tracker. One worthwhile goal is to aim for at least 10,000 steps per day.

Another good target to shoot for is at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly. 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, plant a garden, ride bikes,

hike, swim or enjoy a walk around the neighborhood.

• Take the stairs.

• Use lunchtimes to take a walk or move around your office.

• Take “active” vacations.

BY KAROL BRANDT

Also try to stay mentally active and maintain a positive attitude; this is equally important to living a healthy life. Also, it makes it easier to make healthy decisions and stay active.

Some tips for staying positive include:

• Choose to do something you enjoy. Many people prefer walking. You can walk outdoors, at home on a treadmill 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 any other important appointment.

• Spend time with friends. Limit your exposure to friends who are negative.

• Read an inspirational book.

• Volunteer. Helping others can improve your emotional outlook.

• Relieve stress through physical activity and relaxation techniques.

So, I invite you to fall into wellness and join me on a path to improved health. Yes, you must do the work, which means eating right, moving more and exercising that mental muscle!

Karol Brandt is an executive host with Scarlet Pearl Casino Re sort, as well as co-author of the Amazon best-seller “The Strug gle 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, Face book/ The Struggle Is Real or Instagram at karolbrandtnola.

style

THE MAGIC OF MICRONEEDLING

BY MELISSA NEW

As you age, your skin starts producing less collagen. Generation of the fibroblast cells that stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin diminishes, which can cause sagging skin, the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and loose, dull skin. To slow the aging process, it is very important to stimulate the production of collagen for healthier, younger looking skin, and this can be done with microneedling treatments, also referred to as collagen induction therapy.

This treatment uses an automated microneedling device with a disposable tip cartridge comprised of 12 microneedles that penetrate vertically into the skin, using a “stamping” action that creates invisible micro-injuries to the skin while stimulating the skin’s natural ability to heal itself and

stimulate collagen production. In doing so, these micro-injuries encourage and harness the body’s innate ability to regrow and repair the skin through normal physiological processes, and the skin becomes rejuvenated and refreshed — resulting in plumper, smoother looking skin.

Microneedling is one of the most innovative rejuvenation therapies available for treating various skin problems. This treatment is good for all skin types and tones, especially for those with problems like acne scarring, wrinkling, fine lines and large pores. It treats the full face for skin rejuvenation, but it also can treat other areas of the body like the abdomen, legs, arms and hands. It can safely treat all forms of scars, like acne or surgery scars, abdominal scars, stretch marks, burn contracture scars and loose body skin.

Usually a series of at least three treatments four weeks apart is recommended, and the only downtime required is that on the treatment day, you can't do anything to the skin

(no makeup etc.) until the next day. Skin will be pink after the treatment (sometimes red if the treatment is more aggressive), and you may experience minimal swelling the first day and mild flakiness two to three days after. The amount of discomfort is minimal because a topical cream is used to numb the skin prior to the treatment.

To see how this treatment can benefit you, schedule an appointment for a consultation with an aesthetician. Make sure to use an aesthetician that operates under a licensed physician, as this is required to perform this type of treatment.

Melissa New is an independent, li censed esthetician and owner of New Skin Care, based in Gulfport at Doctors Care. Reach her at (501) 328-7984.

Spillingher secrets

WINDY STANTON is the owner of Ladidaa, a fun, whimsical clothing boutique in downtown Biloxi that caters to women of all ages and sizes. Starting as a hobby, the store recently celebrated its third anniversary. In addition to “Dressin’ the Gulf Coast,” Stanton is an advocate for entrepreneurs and redeveloping downtown. Here are the must-have products that help fuel her fabulous:

THE ‘PERFECT’ FOUNDATION

I have gone through many foundations to find Estée Lauder Futurist Hydra Rescue. I wanted a foundation that didn’t settle into my fine lines or dry out my skin. This one is perfect, with lots of moisture and SPF 45 all in one product. It goes on very smoothly. It’s nice and light, and I only need a pearl-sized amount to cover my whole face. It’s perfect for aging skin.

‘MAKES MY SKIN LOOK YOUNG AND VIBRANT’

Nuskin Ageloc is one of the best body enhancers I have ever used. I love this stuff! I use this on my legs, arms and neck. It makes my skin look young and vibrant, minimizing cellulite and crepey skin.

COMBATS WRINKLES

Nuskin Tru Face is similar to Ageloc, but for your face. I put it on before my makeup, and my skin soaks it up. It’s a fave for combatting wrinkles.

‘MY GO-TO FOR LIPS’

Kylie Matte Lipgloss and Lipliner are my go-to for lips. They don’t dry out or stand in lip lines, and they last all day.

‘EASY TO USE’ BROW TOOL

Benefit Brow Microfilling Pen is the most natural brow filler, and so easy to use. I’ve gone through many other brow products, and this is my favorite.

CLEAN, SHINY HAIR — NO RESIDUE

Tangie Shampoo Bar is all natural, with no harmful chemicals or parabens, and uses coconut oil and essential oils instead. It suds up much better than liquid shampoos and leaves my hair clean and shiny with no residue.

“Invest in yourself. You deserve it!”

Listen, Communicate, Educate. I have lived by these standards as a nurse since 2004, and as a US Navy Nurse Corps Veteran. As the owner of Bella Aesthetics, I continue to utilize this successful approach with every client to help ease any anxiety and build provider-client trust. Bella Aesthetics affords everyone the time and respect they deserve - never being rushed, and always feeling comfortable discussing his or her treatment plan. I started my journey in aesthetics because of my passion to make others feel better in both mind and body. It can be difficult to open up about insecurities or unwanted signs of aging, but I strive to create a relaxing environment where we can work together to achieve the look you desire. It is very rewarding when I can help provide someone the confidence they deserve.

BRANDY WESTMAN, FNP-BC Owner, Bella Aesthetics

4509 Gibson Road | Ocean Springs, MS 39564 (inside Dr. Wells office) 228-369-3308 www.msbellaasthetics.com

Not-so unmentionables

ONCE HIDDEN, UNDERWEAR IS HAVING ITS DAY IN THE SUN

From being celebrities’ secret redcarpet weapon to serving as a symbol of the women’s rights movement, undergarments have come a long way since they came on the scene in 500 B.C. It’s crazy to think about how they have evolved into what they are today!

Yitty

I can vividly remember wearing slips with my church dresses each Sunday, as undergarments used to be a major part of everyday wear. We gradually moved away from covering up toward showing more skin and being freer with what we wear, especially underneath our clothes. It’s funny, because now undergarments are surging back into popularity. The

Skims

BY JASMINE BALL

compression wear and shapewear market is expected to grow to $5.75 billion in 2026 from $4.42 billion this year, according to Yahoo Finance.

Brands like Skims and Yitty are changing how we think about shapewear. Tight, body-hugging pieces are now considered stylish and “cool” — enjoying a comeback I don't think we expected. Undergarments are now a fashion necessity. From wearing a Skims sculpting body suit with jeans to rocking Lizzo’s bright activewear styles, we simply can’t get enough. Plus, many of the biggest shapewear brands are size inclusive, allowing everyone to feel comfortable and supported. The only problem is how can you choose when there are so many incredible options for shapewear, underwear, bras and more.

The quality materials used, and the thought given to how these pieces make women around the world feel, is very encouraging. Something that was once always hidden is now worn loudly and proudly out in the open.

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 theball post1@gmail.com.

Skims

FALL MAKEUP TRENDS

THAT TAKE YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Certain things are synonymous with fall: sweaters, leggings, boots, beanies and scarves, not to mention apple cider, cinnamon and, of course, all things pumpkin. Earth tones, deep shades and neutral hues are the colors of the season. Although these things may seem basic, fall trends are anything but. Nature’s palette provides inspiration for the warm tones that dominate fall’s must-have makeup. Whether it's blush that gives you a deep, warm glow, or lipstick shades that make you feel bolder and braver, this is a great time for beauty.

HERE ARE SOME TRENDS THAT ARE WORTH TRYING:

• Blue eyeliner has found its way back Ito the spotlight, and it’s a great choice to wear at night under the autumn sky. Emeralds and purples also will make your eyes pop and create a regal vibe. Make no mistake — your eyes can be a statement piece. There’s no need to choose; try several shades and see what works for you. Accent colors complement the eye, so don’t be shy about rubbing them over your top lid or smudging them into your bottom lash line. This fun trend is a subtle nod to the 90s. I recommend: Blitz Blue Perma Gel by Pat McGraft, $29

• Speaking of the 90s, remember when cork and chestnut lipliner by MAC and a clear gloss ruled the world? Deep browns are a natural fit for fall, which is the best time for outside-the-box lips. In addition to browns, purples, burnt reds and even black are a telltale sign that October has arrived. It’s a time for Halloween costumes and cozy casual wear. Have party plans? Choosing the right lipstick may well determine what kind of night you have. I often love to do minimal face makeup and throw on a black lipstick with a tiny dash of liner on my eyes. I dress up my look with an oversized sweater, leggings and a pair of motorcycle boots, and I'm ready to rock any fall day. I recommend: Rouge Dior Velvet Lipstick in Enigmatic, $42; MAC Lip Pencil in Chestnut, $18

• Ever heard of burnt cheeks? If not, it’s time to introduce you to this trend. Just like eyes and lips, your cheeks can be your best feature. Reds, pinks and rosy cheeks are out, Oranges, peaches and browns are in. Think terracotta, grey violets and orange browns. While these are neutral colors, they surely will give your face a vibrant look. I recommend: Daydreamer Blush by Melt Cosmetics, $24

BY BRITTNEY M. JOHNSON

Brittney M. John son is an inde pendent makeup artist based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Reach her at mbrittneyjohnson@ gmail.com.

Fall for autumn’s BIGGEST FASHION TRENDS

BY CARLA BIASI

The weather may be cooling down, but fall trends are just heating up. Look for thigh-high boots, the color camel and leather to make a splash this season —to name just a few trends you’re sure to notice.

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

A camel-colored blouse is sure to become a staple in your wardrobe.

Azalea top in mocha by Reset by Jane, $89, Lee Tracy, Ocean Springs

Choose leather this season. Look for it in shirts, pants and jackets.

Willa shorts by KUT from the Kloth, $88, Lee Tracy, Ocean Springs

Wear thigh-high boots with shorts, dresses and tucked-in jeans.

Gorgeous by Steve Madden, $169, www. stevemadden.com

Accessorize with metal to keep your look edgy, yet classy.

Chico’s silver stretch bracelet, $35, www.chicos.com

Chico’s faux silver breaker bangle, $35, www.chicos.com

Erasing scars

JOHN HERRON USES A TATTOO NEEDLE TO RESTORE CLIENT’S CONFIDENCE

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

As a paramedical tattoo specialist, John Herron has learned that every scar tells a story.

There are the breast cancer warriors who underwent mastectomies in a bid to survive. There are men and women alike who want to conceal the appearance of certain conditions or erase permanent reminders of medical procedures.

In these cases and many others, Herron helps restore the confidence his clients thought they’d lost for good.

“I have a passion for people, and making people happy brings me great joy,” he says. “I was happy to find a way to mix my love for art and helping others.”

While working with Dr. Anna Pavlov, a local plastic surgeon, Herron realized there was a need on the Coast that was not being met. His extraordinary attention to detail and artistic talent made Herron the right person to fill that void.

“Patients are often left with scars to remind them of the trauma they have experienced,” Herron says. “Even a perfect incision and suturing can still leave a scar. I began to research and study what could be done for these patients, and I discovered the art of paramedical tattooing.”

When Herron started his business last year, he and his clients squeezed into a tiny room, where he had to stow his table against the wall when it wasn’t in use. He has since moved into a larger space that affords him more room to provide services such as microblading, microshading, lip blushing, and camouflage for a variety of scars — including acne, surgical and self-harm.

For breast cancer patients, Herron can use a custom mix of pigments, based on the client's skin tone, to create a tattoo that gives the appearance of an areola and nipple. Men and women with thinning hair often request scalp micropigmentation, a procedure that uses a specially shaped needle to deliver a precise grouping of hair follicle-shaped marks, thus creating

the illusion of fuller hair. He likewise serves clients with stretch marks, vitiligo and other conditions who can benefit from his creativity and skill with a tattoo needle.

Not everyone is a candidate for Herron’s services, but he makes a point of being honest with prospective clients about whether he can make a difference for them. His consultations are free, and he offers a payment plan for those who would have trouble affording his assistance.

“My hope for this business is to be able to offer these services to a wide variety of people on the Gulf Coast ….,” he says. “The biggest reward I have gotten has to be the smile on someone’s face when they look in the mirror and I can see the joy and happiness they are experiencing.”

“My mission is to help people feel comfortable in their own bodies,” Herron says. “I want people to know that there is an option out there, and there is help.”

Honeymoon Trends

At Beloved Getaways, we are noticing that clients are willing to pay more for honeymoon trips than they were before. Now that we are two years into the pandemic, couples are tired of postponing and waiting; newlyweds are moving ahead with honeymoon plans and are more willing to travel farther and pay more for trips to bucketlist locations. Clients are also upgrading their experiences, lengthening their trips, picking luxury properties, and taking private tours. There has also been a clear shift of requests from traditional travel destinations to more farflung, adventure-oriented ones.

Before the pandemic, couples planning their honeymoon usually started off with a destination in mind, not a place to stay. However, accommodations are now the starting point for trip planning. Interest in all-inclusive resorts will always be popular and is booming, but people also want the swim-up rooms or rooms with a private plunge pool. And everyone wants that over-the-water bungalow experience.

One of the most requested vacations will always be a relaxing trip to a nearby beach. Internationally, Mexico is one of the most appealing picks for warm weather escapes. There are also Caribbean nations; Turks and Caicos, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic are high on travelers’ lists these days. Hawaii, Florida, and Puerto Rico top the list for domestic beaches, although they are not all inclusive destinations.

Island destinations such as the Maldives and Seychelles, in the Indian Ocean, or Tahiti and Fiji, in the South Pacific, offer couples escapes to private huts, villas and bungalows that guarantee fewer interactions with strangers.

As always, Americans are still eager to get to Western Europe: Greece, Croatia, Italy, and Iceland continue to be high priorities for travelers. A huge request lately has been a suite with a private pool in Santorini or on the coast of Italy.

Many people love the thought of being on Safari and seeing animals in their natural habitats. As such, desert safaris are attracting visitors to Northern Africa and the United Arab Emirates. We are also noticing that clients will request to stay in Dubai for a couple of days before flying to their next destination.

Regardless of your honeymoon destination and desires, Beloved Getaways will happily customize itineraries designed to your specific interests.

One of the most requested vacations will always be a relaxing trip to a nearby beach.

Mindi Phillips, owner of Beloved Getaways, is a romance travel specialist with over 15 years’ experience. Named Top 5 Travel Agencies For Honeymoons and Destination Weddings by Mississippi Magazine for three years in a row now.

Stop suffering in silence! STAND UP

Every minute, 20 people on average are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness, hopelessness and even homicide, as 72 percent of all murder-suicides involve an intimate partner.

As horrifying as the statistics are, change is possible. And

like all progress, it begins with knowledge. If you or someone you love is living in an unsafe, abusive situation, we offer this resource, filled with valuable information, as a source of encouragement, empowerment and insight. You can thrive, not just survive, and you don’t have to go through this alone.

BY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Brenda Boetnner Spa Ambiance

1 in 3 women experience domestic violence

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner.

BY STACEY RILEY

Stacey Riley is the chief executive officer of the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. Reach her at (228) 436-3809.

How does that look compared to the 2020 census data for the lower six counties of Mississippi? The adult population (over age 18) of Jackson, Harrison, Hancock, Pearl River, Stone and George counties is 499,347. Of that number, 193,932 are women and 190,994 are men. If we apply the DOJ statistic, 64,644 women and 47,748 men will be or have been abused by an intimate partner. This is an astonishing number.

The statistical information from the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence can be alarming, but it pales in comparison to the total number of individuals from our community who need our help. What can we do to ensure we can fully support the 112,000-plus individuals who have been abused in our community?

GETTING HELP

Since last October, the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence has made leaps and bounds toward simplifying services for survivors of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking) and ensuring they are as accessible as possible. This month, the Center opened a communitybased resource center that will act as a one-stop shop for anyone needing immediate assistance to address the overall impact of any

trauma experienced. This program is located at 213 Porter Ave., Biloxi, and is open for walk-ins anytime Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. As always, the Center’s shelter program in Biloxi and Pascagoula is available for help 24-7.

We recognize that victims face great barriers, and any efforts that we and our community can make to remove such obstacles are valuable and necessary to respond to survivors’ needs fully and comprehensively. Anyone in our community who requires immediate assistance can visit our communitybased service center and immediately meet with a counselor and/or advocate who is equipped with the resources necessary to respond in a holistic manner. The Center has counselors, case managers, advocates, legal advocates and attorneys who are on standby to offer wraparound services to anyone needing assistance. Additionally, this facility will provide access to local law enforcement and court officials to assist in legal matters.

Additionally, this service center will offer a resource library that provides access to self-help materials, computer access, access to offerings by other community resources, training opportunities and a safe space to share experiences with other survivors.

All services provided by the Center are trauma informed and survivor lead. We are always open to any feedback available by anyone who has been impacted by interpersonal violence.

The numbers tell the real story

• Over 43 million women and 38 million men have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner in their lifetime. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• 10 percent of women and 2 percent of men report having been stalked by an intimate partner (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• 1 in 10 women in the United States will be raped by an intimate partner in her lifetime. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

• 17.9 percent of children of all ages have been exposed to physical intimate partner violence in their lifetime, or about 13.6 million children. (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

• 1 in 10 high school students has experienced physical violence from a partner in the last year alone. (thehotline.org)

• On a typical day, more than 20,000 phone calls are placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide. (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

• 19 percent of domestic violence involves a weapon. (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

• Since the pandemic, violence against women has increased to unprecedented levels, according to the Harvard Gazette. The American Journal

of Emergency Medicine reported that domestic violence cases increased by 25 to 33 percent globally. The National Commission on COVID-19 and criminal justice shows an increase in the U.S. by a little over 8 percent following the imposition of lockdown orders during 2020.

ON THE COAST

Over the past year, the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence has served:

3,544 total domestic violence survivors 163 people via housing programs 395 adults via shelter 218 children via shelter

In addition: 1439 calls for services have been received in 2022 753 Interventions have been provided in area courts

HELP IS AVAILABLE

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service. CALL 800799-7233

Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence gccfn.org 24/7 Crisis Line: 800-800-1396

Be vigilant Help those around you

For most of us, home is a place of love, warmth and comfort, where we can be surrounded by those we love and those who love us. It is haven from life’s storms and the trials of daily life. But for millions of women, home is anything but a sanctuary. It is estimated that in the U.S. alone, 1.3 million women are victims of physical violence by a partner every year. Every 9 seconds, a woman in the U.S. is beaten or assaulted by a current or ex-significant other. Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects all people regardless of age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or nationality. Physical violence often is accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control.

October’s designation as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month makes it an ideal time to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and be a voice for victims.

If you suspect a friend or family member is being abused, you can take steps to help. Tell that loved one you are concerned about her safety. It’s important to be supportive and offer specific assistance, such as making a safety plan. Encourage her to talk to someone who can provide professional help, but be careful not to place shame, blame or guilt on her.

When it comes to women in abusive relationships, the jarring reality is that many aren’t certain if they are really in an abusive relationship. They often are used to their partner calling them crazy or making

BY APRIL ULMER

them feel like all the problems in the relationship are their fault.

As October ends, the important awareness it brings to domestic violence’s horrific repercussions should not. Throughout this month and beyond, let’s all do our part to raise awareness surrounding domestic abuse. We must endeavor to support our loved ones and the community organizations that are working to end this blight on society by donating our time, money and resources to this worthy cause.

If you or someone you love needs help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233 or text START to 88788.

Dr. April Ulmer, a.k.a. “The Tummy Dr.,” is a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist who practices at Kids and Tummies in Gulfport. Reach her at thetummydr@gmail.com.

IS IT ABUSE?

If you or a loved one is struggling with the question of whether abuse is occurring, here are some key questions to consider.

If the answer to any of the following questions is “yes,” abuse on some level likely is occurring.

Does the person you love:

• Threaten to hurt you or other people you care about?

• Hit, kick, punch, push, choke or use physical force against you?

• Criticize or blame you for everything that goes wrong?

• Humiliate you in front of other people?

• Control your access to money?

• Control the decision making in your relationship?

• Control your time and actions?

• Put you down, call you names or make you feel like you’re crazy?

• Destroy your property or abuse your pets?

• Threaten to hurt you or commit suicide if you leave?

• Force or coerce you to have sex when you don’t want to?

Teach teens that love is respect

Most people would agree that teen dating violence is a problem. According to youth.gov, studies have shown that up to 76 percent of teens have experienced emotional and psychological abuse within their dating relationships. However, many well-meaning parents either fail to recognize the signs or don’t know what to do when their child enters an unhealthy relationship.

Like most adults, teens are good at showing their family and friends what they want them to see. They crave more independence and will do whatever is necessary to show they deserve it. The last thing most teens want to do is intentionally disappoint their parents.

Age aside, it's hard for anyone to admit to being in an unhealthy relationship. It can be easy to convince yourself you are in love and things will change. Teens may simply think that this is what love looks like or believe that this is as good as it gets.

Everyone in an unhealthy relationship has their “why.” Even the teens who know the signs of dating abuse may not yet have the life experience or skills to effectively address the issue.

So, what can parents do?

First and foremost, just be there for your child. Refrain from judgment and giving unsolicited advice; just be there to listen. Even then, your child still may not feel comfortable or safe enough to confide in you at that moment. However, knowing you are there when he or she is ready to talk can make a huge difference.

Also, show your child what a healthy

relationship looks like. It's OK to talk about past mistakes you’ve made or situations you or your friends have experienced. When watching TV or movies, ask your child questions and discuss what you see. Again, listening to your child’s perspective is far more important than making your opinion known. Showing empathy for those experiencing tough situations shows your teen that he or she can come to you with any type of problem.

In addition, talk to your child about safety planning and worst-case-scenario situations that may arise. Ideally, these types of conversations have been ongoing, but it is never too late to start.

Finally, learn what resources are available, and share that information. Knowledge is power, and the more you and your child have, the better. If you are friends with your child on social media, share posts and support organizations that promote healthy relationships. This reinforces your values and can help your teen and others reach out for assistance when needed.

National initiatives such as loveisrespect.org, a National Domestic Violence Hotline project focused on teen relationships, can provide a wealth of information. Locally, the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence provides free counseling services for teens who have experienced interpersonal violence. Free educational programs also are available for parents and children of all ages that promote and teach about healthy relationships.

BY ALICIA TARRANT

Alicia Tarrant is the Youth outreach educa tor for the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. For more information or to schedule a pre sentation, please call (228) 435-3809 or email atarrant@gccfn.org.

My story: Shattered reality

BY MAVIS CREAGH

What is love? One scripture passage explains, “Love is patient. Love is kind.” Another verse references laying down one’s life for a friend. Nowhere is it said that love should tear you down or torture your soul. However, domestic violence can do that and much more.

In the book compilation, “My Walk Past Hell,” my chapter is titled “Hailraizer: Pain to Praise.” I compare domestic violence to bottling up Satan, and then the bottle explodes in flames. That’s how my life felt. My soul endured agony and despair daily. I felt trapped, isolated and alone. I had other people to turn to, but after being broken, embarrassed and ashamed, how could I be a great mother, career woman and community advocate while allowing someone to berate and belittle my spirit daily?

My desire for affection caused me to forsake myself for an attempt at true love. I wish I would have listened to wise friends who asked, “Are you sure?” and been led by prayer when things didn’t seem right. But like many, I didn’t, and I landed in one of the most horrible mistakes of my life.

Yes, I learned from this and other hellish situations, and I want to protect others from the mental, emotional and physical horror. I pray that those who abused me get help and don’t harm again. I have forgiven them. I used to think I was only involved in one toxic relationship until I learned that verbal, emotional and sexual assault were considered domestic violence. I became aware of the horrible cycle of allowing others to take from me what did not belong to them. Now I speak up boldly to be a voice for the voiceless and others experiencing what I have been through.

I don’t cower when others try to make me feel ashamed or stupid for allowing myself to stay in situations. In my previous relationship, I believed we would be together forever and almost lost everything seeking love. For anyone who is reading this and believe you cannot make it without someone else in your life, that is a lie. You can survive and thrive without someone negating your worth and value. Some things are nonnegotiable, such as self-respect, self-love and dignity. You never should allow anyone to have that much power and control over you.

Abuse can even be financial, such as withholding finances from the house and taking money to make you dependent. If you feel you are in imminent danger, physical or otherwise, please leave. I believe if I would have continued in my last abusive relationship, I would be dead, either by suicide or from my life being taken. That’s a sobering, but real, account of

what domestic violence can do.

Economic or marital status, education, gender and sexual orientation do not preclude someone from being in an abusive relationship; anyone can be affected. After leaving my abuser, I didn’t sever all ties because I was used to being connected. This caused me to experience more trauma even after leaving. I survived these experiences, but others have not after giving their abusers access to them and their homes after separation.

It may be hard at first, but don’t look back. It’s been over three years for me, and I am grateful for everything the Most High has allowed me to witness on the other side of abuse. I’m a new homebuyer, business owner, author and grad student with fresh happiness, joy and peace. This did not happen overnight, and I still have my personal struggles. I would highly recommend therapy or counseling for anyone who has experienced abuse. It helped me tremendously and supports ongoing recovery.

My peace, joy and happiness are worth more than a promise of love and marriage that was a lie. Love does not kick you at your lowest, beat you down and make you feel less-than. If anything I said sounds familiar to you or anyone you know, I encourage you to get out and get help. Your life could depend on it, and you deserve the love you have been desperately giving to everyone else.

Mavis A. Creagh is an executive director, six-time best-sell ing author, speaker, consultant, mental health proponent, community champion, women’s advocate, entrepreneur ial strategist, columnist and online show host. A prolific writer, she will release her first solo project later this year. Connect and learn more at www.mavisacreagh.com.

Victims face issues in legal system as well

When we think about domestic violence, we often envision physical or emotional abuse. What is rarely considered is how offenders use the justice system as an extension of abuse. One of the biggest challenges advocates and victims face is the lack of accountability placed on offenders and the transfer of blame to victims, creating an environment in which victims do not feel comfortable participating in or appearing for court.

There are many reasons why victims do not appear or participate in court. Attending court for victims can be retraumatizing, knowing they will have to face their abuser. There are also financial considerations when victims must take multiple days off from work when defendants or their counsel request continuances that reset the case. Sometimes cases can be pushed months down the road until victims eventually give up, lose hope and stop appearing for court. Often, victims are gaslit into believing the abuse is their fault and may fear reprisal from the abuser for speaking up. Victims also fear that the abuser will not suffer substantial repercussions and the abuse will persist or worsen.

When victims do appear in court, they face additional obstacles. Victims can be met with threats of retaliatory charges, or abusers may use court cases as an opportunity to make false claims or shift

blame to the victim. Abusers have labeled my clients as drug addicts, alcoholics, adulterers or mentally ill to excuse the abuser’s actions, discredit victim testimony or dissuade the victim from continuing. Additionally, the court’s interactions with victims can make them question the utility of moving forward, especially when the risk can outweigh the benefit.

I have witnessed prosecutors ask victims, “Why don’t you just block him?” after the abuser violated a domestic abuse protection order instead of placing accountability on the perpetrator. When abusers violate court orders with no consequences, it sends a message to victims that courts have no authority and will not be able to protect them. When prosecutors take the side of perpetrators, it sends the same message.

Victims who reach out and come forward must be met with understanding, professionalism and support. Fortunately, the courts I serve allow me to provide safety planning, information and access to resources that assist victims to alleviate some of the stresses of court participation. However, there is still more to do, and as a community, we must stand collectively to promote offender accountability and victim safety in cases of domestic violence.

BY GRACEY FREEMAN

Gracey Freeman is Com munity Advocate with the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. Reach her at (228) 436-3809.

The 'you' journey

To some, the recovery process of healing from domestic violence simply may involve walking away and moving forward. However, the process requires much more. Many survivors do not identify their strengths, nor are they ready to process the grief associated with ending certain relationships. Abusers come in the form of spouses, relatives and friends, and survivors oftentimes feel “trapped,” “incompetent,” or “helpless and hopeless” due to the significance of the relationship.

“How did I allow myself to get/stay in a situation like this?” they may ask themselves. “Why did I stay so long?”

In recovery, we work with survivors on their domestic abuse healing journey to help them forgive themselves. They are not to blame. They trusted someone who disrespected and abused that trust. So, the recovery looks like them choosing to take a moment to let it hurt, giving themselves grace to embrace their emotions and not feeling guilty or objectified by them. Then, it involves self-empowerment in our forward progression, which is a continuous process.

At this stage, survivors often are asked, “What does choosing you without your titles look like?” It is hard to be forward-focused when they still have strong attachments

BY MYIA LANE

or feelings; however, choosing safety is the goal. So, what strengths can they identify within themselves? For some, the only strength they have is, “I took a shower and brushed my teeth.” That is enough.”

The recovery process is a “you” journey. It should be centered in self-preservation and self-awareness. Learn who you are as a person. Utilize coping skills, such as 4-78 breathing (a technique where you take a deep breath in for four seconds, hold it for seven seconds then breathe out slowly for eight seconds), and make them a daily routine. Incorporate journaling in your schedule, and make these actions habits.

For many survivors, the war within themselves is the toughest one to fight. Yet, for recovery, it is worth it. Connect with resources for therapy, social enjoyment and self-care. Your recovery needs you to be balanced. So, yes, you want to take care of your obligations while planning and securing safety; however, take time to restore your trust and enjoyment in yourself as well.

Myia Lane, LMSW, is an adult counselor with the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. Reach her at (228) 4363809.

The do's and don'ts of advocacy

As a longtime advocate for survivors of interpersonal violence, I recognize that I continuously tote around a soap box and pull it out at any time someone needs educated about the realities of domestic violence or any time the gross mistreatment or misunderstanding of victims occurs. On these occasions, I have been able to identify approaches, intentional or unintentional, that either help or hurt victims.

If you wish to be an advocate for those experiencing domestic violence, here are some dos and don’ts:

DO:

• Believe those who confide in you that they are being abused by an intimate partner.

• Let him or her know that you are available to listen anytime.

• Provide information to him or her on ways to get help.

• Put the responsibility on the abuser, not the victim.

• Hold the abuser accountable – call him or her out on the abuse.

• Intervene in a safe manner when you see someone being abused in public.

• Educate yourself on the dynamics of domestic violence.

• Educate others on domestic violence.

• For businesses: Implement policies for responding to employees who are being abused.

DON’T:

• Ask “Why do you stay?”

• Cut the victim off when he or she doesn’t leave the abuser. Isolation makes escape much more difficult.

• Judge or blame – no one knows what they would do in any situation until they are faced with it.

• Make excuses for the abuser.

• Compare your situation to theirs.

• Be silent when others need your voice.

We all have the responsibility to shift social norms as they apply to responses to interpersonal violence. If you would like to know more about how to become an ambassador for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and help implement dramatic, positive change, please contact The Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence at (228) 436-3809.

BY STACEY RILEY

Stacey Riley is the chief executive officer of the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. Reach her at (228) 436-3809.

Give your home warm, cozy vibes

BY JENNIFER MILLER

Jennifer Miller is a certified interior designer, professional home stager and the president of Jennuwine Design, Sophisticated Staging. Reach her at jenn@ jennuwinedesign.net.

Whendecorating for fall this year, try to combine a mix of pieces that reflect your lifestyle impeccably and express all that you love. Take inspiration from the warm hues of autumn, found naturally and beautifully in nature. Luxurious textures, exciting shapes and cozy, neutral tones are what this season’s home décor trends are all about.

The autumn palette is warm and earthy. Vibrant colors like amber, ochre (a natural clay earth pigment), creamy neutral shades and burnt orange are reminiscent of fall foliage. These hues are naturally inviting, giving a warm and natural feel.

Deep colors, like rich plum and warm burgundy, will bring the fall season to life in your home. Layering a few lighter pastel shades with deep autumn hues can create a magical balance in your home.

A few items probably come to mind when you think about fall home décor, such as gourds, pumpkins, patterned throw pillows, candles, cotton, straw bales and cornstalks. These can be incorporated throughout your spaces to create a beautiful fall ambiance. Candles are essential, too, as they create a warm, intimate and inviting atmosphere.

An Interior designer I follow, Nate Berkus, says, “It’s all about mixing different materials, finishes and textures. Choose natural materials and objects that feel well-worn or have patina. Antique and vintage furniture are great for this, and also metallics, geodes, and wood.”

Rich wood tones, mossy greens, tumbled brass and ceramic décor are the perfect nods to nature. To achieve a timeless appeal, add some clean lines, earthy textures and rustic finishes. Accent pillows are an effortless and cost-effective way to transform your space — bringing a pop of color, texture and pattern.

Throughout fall, you can find many home décor stores stocking an array of throw pillows and blankets in warm, earth-tone colors. Fall-inspired motifs are also trending. It’s easy to find a wide variety of pillow covers featuring pumpkins, fall foliage and Thanksgiving and Halloween themes. Make your space cozy by layering throw blankets over the back of the sofa and arms of accent chairs, or draping them at the foot of the bed.

Luxurious velvet, faux fur and soft sheepskin throws add an extra touch of elegance and make the perfect seasonal statement. Mix and match throw blankets and accent pillows in bold shades of red, orange and yellow, or subtle hues of wheat and ochre. A new rug is another fast way to instantly transform the look and feel of any room.

tHAD mCINTYRE

BROKER

ERA® REAL ESTATE EXPANDS PRESENCE ALONG THE GREATER MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST WITH AFFILIATION OF POWERMARK PROPERTIES ERA POWERED®

Multi-Office Brokerage in Biloxi Becomes ERA Powered

MADISON, N.J., (Sept. 7, 2022) -- ERA® Real Estate, a global franchising leader within the AnywhereSM portfolio of brands, announced today that PowerMark Properties based in Biloxi, Mississippi, has affiliated with the ERA® brand.

Now known as PowerMark Properties ERA Powered, the firm serves military personnel, retirees, investors and first-time home buyers in the greater Mississippi Gulf Coast region from Louisiana to Alabama. The ERA Powered® flexible branding option gives companies a choice to leverage their local brand identity and benefit from ERA Real Estate’s full suite of learning, marketing and servicing resources.

Growing up with a family that has been in real estate for more than 45 years, broker/owner Thad McIntyre knew that real estate was in his blood. He entered the real estate industry in 1992, following a successful career in the finance and mortgage industries. He opened his own brokerage in 2016.

The greater Mississippi Gulf Coast region, dubbed “the Secret Coast,” offers affordable waterfront living complemented by access to the vibrant, charming city of

Quotes:

“Thad’s proven success as a top producing agent, business owner and industry leader are exciting indicators of what’s to come for his firm as an ERA Powered company. He has independently grown his brokerage with a focus on helping his agents be more productive. As an ERA Powered company, he can implement ERA’s services, products and enhancements best suited for his agents to help them grow their business while keeping his company brand at the forefront. With ERA’s comprehensive suite of services, tools and technology at his disposal, Thad can bring his brokerage to the next level in a manner consistent with his firm’s brand cache in the Gulf Coast.”

– Sherry Chris, President and CEO of ERA® Real Estate

“Over the years, our team has exceeded my expectations performance-wise, but I’m even more proud of our consistent commitment to integrity. When I founded the company in 2016, I aimed for the PowerMark name to become synonymous with the firm’s foundational value and guiding principle of integrity, which to this day is the brokerage’s defining strength. As an ERA Powered company, we will benefit from being a part of the highly collaborative ERA network of like-minded real estate professionals while gaining access to ERA’s robust suite of services. This combination will not only fuel tremendous growth but will allow us to stand out even more in the greater Mississippi Gulf Coast market.”

– Thad McIntyre, Broker/Owner, PowerMark Properties ERA Powered

About ERA Real Estate

ERA ®Real Estate knows that real estate is as local as it gets. We believe that our core business values of collaboration, innovation, diversity and growth are needed more than ever. As a global leader in the residential real estate industry for nearly 50 years, ERA features a powerful network of like-minded entrepreneurs supported by the brand’s game-changing technology, products and powerful lead generation.

Each office is indenpentently owned and operated.

Easy ways to elevate your dining room

CREATE A FANCY RESTAURANT VIBE

IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME

There are many fabulous restaurants on the coast with fantastic dishes and décor. Our dining experiences are one of the reasons the word is getting around about the Secret Coast. Many restaurants offer delicious meals for a great price, making dining out more accessible.

However, rising fuel and food prices have some of us spending more time at home. When we were shut in during the pandemic, many of us either found or rediscovered the joy of cooking. Now that we can gather with family and friends again, we can catch up by preparing a meal together. After all, some of the best memories are made in the kitchen — the heart of the home.

Here’s an idea: Invite friends over for a potluck-style dinner where everyone brings their best dishes. Make it more fun, and vote for the top recipe. You may be surprised at how quickly that can turn into a tradition. Just the two of you? Imagine how romantic date night can be when your significant other takes the time and care to prepare an impressive meal.

No matter the occasion, why not make dining at home special and create the same elegant atmosphere you would find in a fine-dining restaurant? Here are a few tips for your dining room decor and completing the transition to an authentic restaurantquality experience.

USE LINEN TABLECLOTHS AND NAPKINS

Set your table to set it apart from how it looks every other day. If you have a theme, such as Italian, consider a checkered tablecloth.

MAKE A CENTERPIECE

This can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like. Fresh greenery with votive candles on a tray is a simple, yet elegant, look. Place fresh-cut flowers in a vase surrounded by a few small candles to boost the elegance factor.

ADJUST THE LIGHTING

Fine dining is not complete without candles and low lighting. If you have a dimmer, lower the lights. No dimmer? Grab a few lamps from around the house and place them in the room on small tables.

DRESS THE PART

Have fun and take the time to get dressed up for the special occasion. Wear what you would if you were headed to a fancy dinner spot. When you look the

BY SUSIE SIEMIONTKOWSKI

part, your home restaurant will feel the part.

GILD THE ROOM

One of the best ways to add elegance and bounce light around the room is to add a gilded mirror. Keep an eye out for clearance items at local décor stores; they sometimes have the perfect touches.

Plan delicious meals in your special place and enjoy elegant dining by employing a few of these simple ideas. Spending more time at home doesn’t mean we can’t create a “dining out” sense of elegance. Of course, these ideas also are great for staging if you sell your home.

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

Working memory and the role it plays in learning

FROM HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

In school, your child relies on memory to learn. However, different types of memory come into play in different situations. Psychology Today defines working memory as “a form of memory that allows a person to temporarily hold a limited amount of information at the ready for immediate mental use.” It is critical for all kinds of mental processes and for learning new things.

HOW DO CHILDREN USE WORKING MEMORY IN SCHOOL?

Children use their working memory when they recall all the little things that go into more complex things. For example:

• When a teacher gives multi-step directions, your child must be able to pay attention to that information and store it long enough to retrieve it for subsequent parts of directions.

• When a teacher tells students to put their names at the top of their papers and write down their student numbers, your child must hold onto that information long enough to actually do this.

• When a teacher introduces a guest speaker by name and asks the students to write that name down, students must tap into their working memory to retain those details for use thereafter.

• When a child must remember part of a math problem to complete the rest of it (for example, completing the sum of three numbers in a numerator divided by the sum of three numbers in the denominator), that requires working memory.

Think of the working memory as your child’s personal white board where he or she can jot down information and manipulate it. It enables students to do complex work by accessing shortterm information.

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD IMPROVE HIS OR HER WORKING MEMORY?

There are several ways to build and strengthen the working memory:

1. Chunking – The chunking method involves taking larger tasks and breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. You can do this during homework time by helping your child break down homework into specific tasks and assigning times to those tasks.

2. Play memory-based games — There are many games and apps out there. Good examples of games that give children practice retaining information while also using it are chess, checkers, puzzles, sudoku, card games, memory card games and crossword puzzles.

3. Have your child repeat things back to you — Ever ask children to do something and discover five minutes later that not only have they not done it, but they’ve also forgotten what you asked? For children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, this is a common problem. Give clear, concise directions and ask your child to repeat them back to you. Do this without stress or guilt to help your child get into the habit of active, focused listening.

4. Read, read, read — There’s a strong connection between working memory and reading comprehension. As children read words, their memories are hard at work decoding and understanding while continuing to absorb each sentence, each paragraph and the story overall. At a young age, have your child read aloud to you.

5. What can you do if your child’s working memory is weak? — If your child struggles with things like focus and attention, reading comprehension, math or other subjects, several issues could be contributing. Pay attention to the following problems:

• Homework taking significantly longer than it should

• Executive functioning is weak or nonexistent

• Inconsistent or dropping grades

• Difficulty starting homework and procrastination

• Inattention/focus challenges during homework and daily tasks

• Reading problems

• Difficulty recalling what they learned during the school days (and therefore, homework difficulty)

If your child struggles with issues related to working memory, he or she might benefit from a personalized tutoring program created with his or her individual needs in mind to develop the building blocks for school success.

The Huntington Learning Center Gulfport is located at 8950 Lorraine Road, Unit E, Gulfport. Contact the center at (228) 2062353.

Limelight hydrangeas (plantaddicts.com)

COASTAL GARDENING

Spruce up your garden for the fall, spring

BY GAYE WINTER

Early autumn in the South is an ideal time to rethink your landscaping if you want a fresh look. It is still hot in Mississippi; however, certain annuals will brighten up your garden and make it appear clean and crisp.

Begonias and zinnias are good choices to add some color to your beds. Along with these, celosia and ageratum will thrive in autumn and bloom through early winter. Pansies and chrysanthemums also add color to beds or containers.

Make sure you choose plants with buds so they last throughout the season. You also can add other plants to your landscape. For instance, hydrangeas (choose the limelight variety) and roses like the cool fall weather.

This is also a great time to plant lavender. Try to choose more mature plants, as smaller ones may not survive the winter. Be sure to space the plants roughly 24 inches apart to avoid crowding.

Additionally, don't forget marigolds. These are great in containers or in your landscape, as they add color and a cheerful brightness wherever they are planted.

You can transplant marigolds at any time, and late-planted marigolds make beautiful additions to fall landscapes. These blooms are very useful for longlasting color displays.

Spring may seem far off, but you can

prepare now by planting flowering bulbs. Decide which flowers you would like to see emerge and enjoy; daffodils, crocus, tulips and irises are wonderful options. Bulbs can be planted alongside your shrubs and other landscape plants. Your flowerbeds will see a burst of color in the spring when these beautiful bulbs bloom. Plant some en masse for a whole bed of beautiful bulbs come spring. This is a great time to divide and relocate some of your perennials or share the extra with a fellow gardener.

Container gardening can include some fall decorating. The containers can be used on your porch or placed in your landscape. Because it stays so warm in Mississippi, take advantage and plant some of the flowers mentioned earlier. Choose a container that fits into your fall décor, and voilà — a new look, as well as new flowers, to enjoy.

Gaye Winter, Ph. D., teaches English at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and is a member of the Biloxi Garden Club. Reach her at gaye.winter@ mgccc.edu.

Ageratum (gardendesign.com)

Detox your kid's social feed

Forparents of teen girls, it’s normal to hear complaints about not feeling pretty enough or wanting to look more like a celebrity — but when does the complaint become a real bodyimage issue? According to researchers at the Dove Self Esteem Project, teens are scrolling on social media apps an average of 1.5 hours every day, and most of what they are seeing is contributing to poor body image and self-esteem. So, if your teen seems to be making a lot of comments about her dissatisfaction with her appearance, it could be what she is watching that is making her feel this way.

As an adult, it’s easy to see how social media can cause these feelings. Almost every day, I get ads on my Facebook and Instagram feeds for fillers and plastic surgery services. The algorithms on these social media platforms learn what my age range is and begin to send me targeted ads. These platforms know their audience, and it is easy to see how social media can affect teens’ feelings about their appearance.

What can we do to address this

problem? The first step is having an honest discussion about how social media works. Most top influencers have a team to help create that perfect pic, and even after that shot is chosen for posting, there’s usually some type of editing and/or airbrushing involved. Sit down with your teen, look through her feed together and ask her which images she believes are authentic and which she believes are edited. Ask how she feels about the bodies she sees and whether she finds them realistic.

The Dove Self Esteem Project states that six in 10 teenage girls believe that social media creates unrealistic expectations of beauty standards. Having that open discussion can show your teen you understand how she feels. Help her find influencers who have healthy messages about beauty and appearance by following hashtags #bodypositivity #nofilter #celebratemysize and #beautybeyondsize, for example.

Secondly, talk about the social media “highlight reel.” Most of the time, people post only the good things in their lives. Although it can be nice to see those

idealized moments, it can make your child feel like her life isn’t exciting or fulfilling enough. Remind your teen that the influencers she follows are getting paid to post that highlight reel, and these posts are planned and carefully produced.

BY MELANIE ROBINSON

Last, but not least, encourage your teen to follow people who post about things that aren’t related to appearance, such as a hobby she is interested in. Filling her feed with positive, realistic images and ideas will help her to think of herself as a whole person beyond her appearance. For more information and resources, follow The Dove Self Esteem Project at https://www. dove.com/us/en/dove-self-esteem-project. html.

Melanie Robinson is a music and theater instructor at Rock U 2 in Ocean Springs, a proud military wife and former Elite Mrs. Mississippi, as well as a body positivity ad vocate. Reach her at melgrayrobinson@ gmail.com.

Realtor

Gulf Coast.

of

THE COAST’S FAVORITE MOVERS

that moving

be a complicated and stressful process.

Primary

of that stress by making

move as smooth and

most to

as possible,

household move,

years, Emily McDougall

5th generation native of the

of the Coast including school districts,

of all the local nuances. Emily has closed

transactions, and rehabbed homes for resale. She works with

Nathan, who has built and sold multiple spec

A NO-FUSS GUIDE TO A MAGICAL OCTOBER

patch. We have lots of fun fall activities around the Gulf Coast. I can be hesitant to go because we’re already so busy, but go anyway. You won’t regret it!

BY JENNI MURRAY

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” Truly. It’s a quote from “Anne of Green Gables,” and you’ll see it adorning every farmhouse sign at Hobby Lobby, but I think it resonates with people because it’s just so true.

While nature starts the beautiful process of dying away, people around us seem to bustle with life and activity. School is in full swing. Sporting events and festivals abound. Parties are planned. Everything feels abuzz with excitement.

Somehow when the calendar starts moving towards Oct. 1, I become 7 years old again. I cannot get pumpkins on my porch fast enough. I break out all the spooky decorations. I let the kids run wild with Halloween costume ideas because there is something so pure and so fleeting about the delight of wearing a costume around the neighborhood for a night.

So, if you find yourself a little short on enthusiasm for the year’s greatest month, here are some ideas for making it the best one yet from a bona-fide October enthusiast. You don’t have to overcomplicate it to make some beautiful family memories.

1. Have a spooky movie night. If scary isn’t your thing, turn on a classic like “Spookly the Square Pumpkin.” Buy the cheap, fall-themed pjs, pop the popcorn, serve up some fall cookies and get those highly coveted snuggles.

2. Decorate. Take the kids to Dollar Tree and let them buy all the things — window clings, fake spider webs, etc., and then let them unleash their imaginations on some designated spot in your home. Maybe it’s a playroom or their bedroom. Maybe you’re really brave, and it’s your front porch.

3. Do family costumes. Come on, you can do it! Let them add you to the costume plans, and see their joy explode through the roof.

4. Go to a fall festival or pumpkin

5. Go see the Halloween drive-through lights. We love going to the Thriller Night of Lights at Hank Aaron Stadium in Mobile each year. It’s a super fun and easy way to make a great memory. Throw the kids in the car, get something quick to eat on the drive over and enjoy a fun, not-thatscary light show for kids of all ages.

6. Boo your neighbors or friends. If you weren’t into the idea of letting the kids buy decorations, let them buy all the cheap fall goodies and toss them in a treat bag. Dress them in all black so they feel extra stealth, and then let them ring the doorbell of a neighbor or friend, leave a Halloween bag and run away like they’ve pulled off the greatest heist in history. Our kids beg to do this every year, and my husband and I usually spend most of the time laughing until we cry watching them trip and fall all the way back to the car.

7. Create a fall bucket list: Carve a pumpkin, make a pie, drink an apple cider, bob for apples, go on a hayride, read fall books, make s’mores. If you’re a fellow fall enthusiast, you’re with me here. Do. It. All. And if you’re not, pick one or two off the list and enjoy.

I don’t usually accomplish my entire fall bucket list, and that’s ok. The point is not to overwhelm your family. There is just something so innocent about the joy of our children around holidays. They will grow up, and life will get more and more complicated. But for a few glorious years, a pair of skeleton pjs and a bowl of popcorn is enough to make them over the moon with excitement. Cherish and celebrate it.

Jenni Murray is a social worker turned stayat-home mom who lives in Pascagoula with her husband and their four sons, ages 11, 8, 6, and 2. When she’s not doing laundry or refereeing little boys, she hides away to write for therapy and is a Gulf Coast Mom contributor. Reach her at jennijmurray@ gmail.com.

Safely navigating a digital world

DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY

Weuse technology in nearly every facet of life. Our televisions are no longer just TVs; we can use them to browse the internet, access apps and much more. Many people now have smart homes with lights, appliances, doors, thermostats and security cameras that can be controlled remotely. There are even app-controlled pacemakers and other medical devices, as well as smart cars that respond to voice commands. Such developments are called the Internet of Things (IoT) and are designed to streamline our lives.

The Internet of Things makes our lives easier, eliminating many of the limitations posed by time and location. However, such convenience comes with great risk and vulnerability, no matter how careful we are. Therefore, we must be alert to the dangers that come with technological advances.

We’ve all received calls, texts and emails from scammers. They may even direct message us on social media or comment oddly on posts, trying to catch us when we are not attentive. These scammers are relentless and getting smarter by the day. The elderly can be especially vulnerable to such attacks.

Such bad actors try to trick victims into sharing information, including usernames, passwords and social security numbers, for the purpose of financial gain. Their activities often cause damage to their victims’ financial health and personal reputation.

Here are some strategies to protect you and your loved ones as you navigate the digital world:

• Safeguard your passwords. Don’t write them on post-it notes and stick them under your keyboard. Don’t create a document on your computer titled “passwords.”

• Create complex passwords or passphrases that use a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and symbols.

• Do not use the same username and password combination for all accounts. • Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi and charging stations. Scammers may intercept your data.

• Scrutinize unexpected emails (or even expected ones) to determine authenticity — noting misspelled words, poor grammar, poor graphic quality (blurry or fuzzy images), inconsistent contact information, etc.

• Use two-step verification or multi-factor authentication whenever possible. It offers additional

layers of protection for your sensitive accounts.

• Before clicking on links in a text message, stop to carefully review the message. If you are unsure of its authenticity, conduct a web search for contact information that can be used to verify what was sent. Do not use the contact information provided in the questionable text.

• Never let an unknown caller coerce or scare you into granting remote access to your computer. Doing so opens the door to your sensitive data.

• If a bank or credit union texts you, do not respond by text and do not click on any links in the message. Contact the institution as you normally would to verify the communication.

• When an unknown or suspicious person calls you, avoid saying “yes” when asked a question. If the caller asks, “Is this Tracy?” respond by saying, “This is Tracy.” or something similar. The caller can use your recorded “yes” to fraudulently prove that you agreed to something.

• Avoid emailing username and password information. Instead, email the username and call or text the recipient to provide the password.

• Avoid sharing sensitive data by email, even if it is requested by a reputable company or organization. Ask the requestor to offer a more secure way to send the information, such as fax, encrypted file sharing, sending a password-protected file by email or hand delivery.

• Be wary of social media quizzes and polls. These are easy ways for bad actors to gather information about you, your family and other connections that later can be used to obtain access to or create an account.

• Keep your software updated. Many of these updates work to patch vulnerabilities.

• Use an anti-virus program on your computer, and keep it updated.

Above all, be vigilant and cautious. It is better to be safe than sorry!

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

Fun, kid-friendly DIY fall decor

BY MANDIE RODRIGUEZ

The

kiddos have returned to school. Days are getting shorter, and the weather is turning a little cooler. Fall is here! But between making sure your children get educated, fed and clothed, not to mention all the “extracurricular” activities and taking care of yourself, who has the time to decorate? As it turns out, you do!

Seasonal decorating need not take a lot of time and money. Fall is one of the easiest seasons for decor because it is all about color, texture and bringing the outside in. The fall palette is focused on warm earth tones — oranges, reds and browns. Textures can be incorporated using different fabrics like linen, velvet and boucle, to name a few.

One of the simplest ways to incorporate color and texture is with throw pillows. Now, don’t go nuts and have so many that no one can sit down. A few pillows make a statement without looking cluttered. Add a favorite throw for those cooler nights we are so looking forward to.

Dried or faux florals are the easy go-to for fall decorating. Pick some of your favorites from your garden to dry or press. If a garden is not nearby, Amazon is always a great resource.

Many bargain shoppers know that vintage and thrift stores

are a cornucopia of home décor deals. This can also be a great way to involve the kids. Organize a treasure hunt for some pieces you have in mind or something they can add to the vision.

Here is a quick and super-easy DIY project for the whole family.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: leaves, mason jars, glue, twine and flameless tea candles.

1. Take a walk and pick out some colorful fallen leaves.

2. Glue the leaves to the inside of the mason jar.

3. Insert an LED candle.

4. Tie twine.

5. Make as many as you’d like to place inside or out.

Mandie Rodriguez is lead designer with MLR Interior Design. Reach her at (228) 697-2836 or www.mlrinteriordesign.com.

HOW I BUILT MY BUSINESS: JANICE SPENCER

Istarted

my own business desiring financial freedom, and embracing opportunity motivated me. I love being in control, and being an entrepreneur allowed me to be my own boss. However, like anything in life, being a successful entrepreneur requires a healthy balance between freedom and control. I knew as my business grew, the work would become more challenging, and I’d have more responsibility. Because I was a single mother, schedule flexibility was important. Setting my own hours allowed me to work overtime either late at night or early in the morning as necessary. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to being an entrepreneur, I decided the risk would be worth the reward. I had a great idea, and I was ready to make it a reality.

On July 11, 2013, royalty met class, and Epitome Cheveux was born. I noticed salon clients had to search for reasonable prices for wigs and hair extensions and then wait for shipments to arrive. Why not supply women with elegant-looking, virgin hair extensions and luxury wigs with the added benefit of convenience? I was inspired by other companies that were providing similar services. I searched, invested, tested and lost profits, but I gained knowledge and several choices of high-quality extensions imported from outside the United States.

My idea needed a name, not to mention a website, samples, models and advertising — whatever it took to launch these products as soon as possible. However, it was not that simple, and financially, I had to settle for what I could afford. For six months, I worked and invested in my business having started with $300. Here we are nine years later, and I own a wig and hair extension boutique, which has a physical and online presence.

As a business owner, every day will be challenging, but I believe entrepreneurs can change the world. Our ideas are unconventional, and you must have an imagination and a dash of insanity to stay focused. My best advice is to never stop asking questions and learning; this facilitates growth. Don’t get comfortable with your knowledge, and stay excited about your dreams and goals. Never lose sight of the genuine reasons why you were inspired to start your own business in the first place.

Janice Spencer is the owner of Epitome Cheveux in Gulf port. You can reach her at (469) 888-3808.

WELCOMES

CHRISTEN DUHÉ

NEW PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Duhé is an award-winning public relations professional with more than 14 years of experience in business development, financial operations and human resources. Her leadership at MGCCC, coupled with her volunteerism with a variety of organizations, will foster community collaborations and help increase awareness of GCCF’s regional impact.

BY THE COMMUNITY.

WITH THE COMMUNITY. FOR THE COMMUNITY.

The Gulf Coast Community Foundation actively promotes philanthropy throughout the lower six counties of South Mississippi. Since 1989, charitable contributions from our donors have made it possible for GCCF to distribute over $90 million toward improving the lives of Mississippi Gulf Coast residents. We welcome the generosity of individuals, businesses, civic organizations, and others who want to improve the quality of life in Pearl River, Stone, George, Hancock, Harrison, and Jackson counties.

TO DONATE OR SEE CURRENT GRANT OPPORTUNITIES: WWW.MGCCF.ORG

MS 39503 (228) 897-4841

Smart business considerations

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE

If you are starting or expanding a business, it’s a good idea to review your risks and exposures. You can address some risks, like theft, with a good security system, but acts of nature may be out of your control and are best covered with insurance.

COVERAGE FOR ACTS OF NATURE EXPOSURES:

Property Insurance: Provides building and business personal property protection. This includes office equipment, computers, inventory or tools and pays claims for fire, vandalism, theft, smoke damage, etc. You also may want to consider business interruption/loss of earnings insurance coverage to protect your earnings if the business is unable to operate.

Commercial Auto Insurance: Protects a company’s vehicles and any vehicles that carry employees, products or equipment.

COVERAGE FOR HUMAN EXPOSURES:

General Liability Insurance: Provides both defense and damages if you, your employees or your products or services cause, or are alleged to have caused, bodily injury or property damage to a third party.

Worker's Compensation: Provides wage replacement and medical benefit payments to employees injured on the job.

Professional Liability Insurance: Offers damages and defense against claims of professional negligence. This protection is critical for professionals such as lawyers, accountants, consultants, agents and any profession providing services.

Directors and Officers Insurance: Covers the directors and officers of a company against their actions that may affect the profitability or operations of the company.

Umbrella Insurance: Extends an already existing insurance policy and covers beyond the regular policies.

Employee Benefits: Ancillary coverages that provide benefits for your working staff and their families. There are many coverage options for your team, including health, dental, vision, cancer, accident, disability and life insurance.

EXTERNAL EXPOSURE COVERAGE:

Data Breach Coverage/Cyber Liability: Protects in the event of data loss of sensitive or non-public information and

Please see INSURANCE on Page 134

As a former prosecutor, I am equipped to handle a variety of cases, whether it be complex civil litigation or defending criminal cases. As a female litigator, I bring a unique perspective to your case and will ensure your rights are protected. I also strive to ensure that clients are treated with dignity and respect and that each case is handled as efficiently as possible.

As a parent, I understand the importance of keeping families together. However, situations arise where difficult decisions must be made and I work hard to represent my clients’ interests. In addition to family law, I specialize in immigration cases, with an emphasis in family-based matters, asylum cases, and removal defense.

KATHERINE A. KINGREN, ESQ.

Since the beginning of my legal career in 1994, I have been a trial attorney, litigating cases on behalf of my clients whether they were civil litigants or criminal defendants. I treat every client with dignity and respect, making sure that each case is handled in a way that best serves our client’s needs. My practice focuses on complex civil litigation, family law matters, estate matters and criminal defense.

Any description of areas of practice does not state or imply certification, specialization, or expertise in any particular area of the law. The descriptions herein are meant only to provide information about the activities and experiences of the attorneys and are not intended as any form of guarantee of any particular results on a case.

CHERIE RIVERA WADE, ESQ.MICHELLE TOMES BRYAN, ESQ.

all the compliance requirements and legal action necessary following a breach. Given all of the spam and phishing schemes prevalent today, this coverage protects you and your customers.

A less-costly insurance option when you are starting out may be a business owner's policy (BOP). Often, BOPs will include business interruption insurance, property insurance, vehicle coverage, liability insurance and crime insurance — and you can tailor it to your specific needs.

Be aware that coverage for your business will not protect your personal use, and your personal policies will not protect business use. Consult your agent to ensure you are properly protected.

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

Heather Sudduth

Stroke support champion

Your Health and Wellness

Starts With

Peace of Mind

Expected or unexpected, financial obligations related to your health are never easy.

Our Dreammaker™ Loan options can give youpeace of mind. They can be used for either elective or necessary medical procedures along with deductibles/co-pays, preventative care, spa weekends or even family time to recharge your mind, body and soul.

Your bank family is here to give you true peace of mind so you can be your best!

Our Dreammaker™ Loans are personal loans with competitive rates that come with friendly bankers who make it easy. Our Branch Managers are ready to assist you with all of your savings and lending needs, so please give us a call or stop in at any of our Branch Locations.

It’s always been more than banking.

ELEVATIONS

NEREIDS MERMAIDS GIVE BACK TO THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB – HANCOCK UNIT

Royalty from the court of Queen Doris LIV and the Krewe of Nereids Mermaids collected 100 school supplies donated to the Boys & Girls Club - Hancock County Unit.

MEMORIAL ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NEW DIAMONDHEAD CLINIC

Memorial Health System opened its newest clinic today, Dia mondhead Family Medicine, Multispecialty & Diagnostic Clinic, located at 45000 E. Aloha Drive, Diamondhead.

“Our health system continues to grow to meet the needs of our community, and we are thrilled to provide this new clinic for our patients in Hancock County,” says Memorial Health System Vice President of Clinic Operations Matt Walker. “Memorial is commit ted to offering the highest level of care and expertise in our area, and this new clinic will provide family medicine, walk-in services, multispecialty providers as well as diagnostic and radiology services. We are also very excited to bring an infusion center to Diamondhead so cancer patients can get their treatments closer to their homes.”

The 20,000-foot facility will offer extensive diagnostic capability, primary care providers, an infusion clinic and multiple specialties, including cardiology, oncology, hematology, orthopedics and pain management, with more to follow. The Family/Specialty and Diagnostic Clinic hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; walk-in hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call (228) 822-6006 to schedule an appointment or visit wearememorial.com to learn more.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America is a national organization of local chapters that provide voluntary, after-school programs for young people. Nereids is the original Mardi Gras Krewe in Hancock County, founded in the 1960s as an all-women organization devoted to giving back to the community.

MOSS POINT NATIVE TAKES COMMAND OF KEESLER MEDICAL SQUADRON

Col. Ada Collier has been installed as the new commander of Keesler Air Force Base’s 403rd Aeromedical Staging Squadron.

The Moss Point High School graduate accepted the role from 403rd Wing commander Col. Stuart Rubio during a recent Assumption of Command ceremony.

Collier began her career as a staff sergeant at Keesler and went on to serve at Robins Air Force Base and the Pentagon. During a deployment to Ramstein Air Force Base in Germa ny, she nursed fellow military members back to health.

“And that’s exactly what this mission is here,” she says. “We are helping to prepare the patients, prepare our airman, prepare sailors, our soldiers and getting them back home safely. And that’s our responsibility.”

GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES CHANGES; DUHÉ TAPPED

Good Shepherd Christian Academy provides

to students

partnered

Gulfport,

We use the “Beginnings” curriculum and

programs to enhance preparation for kindergarten.

Enroll your child today in the safe, healthy, cheerful environment of our school. Our loving and professional staff works with every child in a caring, positive, and encouraging manner.

GOOD SHEPHERD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY provides quality education partnered with a Christian environment to students in the Gulfport, MS area.

We use the “Beginnings” curriculum and computer programs to enhance preparation for kindergarten.

Enroll your child today in the safe, healthy, cheerful environment of our school. Our loving and professional staff works with every child in a caring, positive, and encouraging manner.

Each

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Commu nity Foundation has announced that Paul D. Guichet, chief operating officer and executive director, will retire effective Dec. 31. The board of directors chose Christen Duhé to serve as president and execu tive director starting Oct. 3.

Duhé, an award-winning public relations professional with more than 14 years of experience in business development, financial operations and human resources, will leave her post as associate vice president of insti tutional relations at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and join GCCF.

“We are struck by Christen’s deep love for the Coast and her passion for connecting community resources to the needs that hinder quality of life for Mississippi residents,” says David Vincent, 2022 GCCF board chair. “Her reputation as a creative, results-ori ented leader has preceded her and will help pave the way in continuing GCCF’s philanthropic efforts on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

MEMORIAL ANNOUNCES STAR AWARD WINNERS

Memorial Health System has named the recipients of the 2022 STAR Awards, Memorial’s highest honor. STAR stands for Service Teamwork Attitude and Respect and recognizes outstanding cus tomer service.

The following team members were honored:

Mary Raines, medical telemetry

Caitlin Kelly, clinical support

Adriann Pickich, employee health

Heather Burley, orthopedic surgeons

John Sheets, cardiac cath lab

Kimberly Merrill, physician liaison/cmo

Maria Jeffrey, environmental services

Lydia Ruiz, emergency services

John Grady, hospitalist

Jacquelyn Bunch, endoscopy

Pam Barton, cardiac observation

Shana Odem, medical oncology physicians

LEADERSHIP GULF COAST ANNOUNCES

2022-2023 CLASS

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Inc. has announced the 31st class of local business and com munity leaders selected to participate in its Leadership Gulf Coast program.

Selected for the 2022-2023 Class are: Thomas A. Allen, Eley Guild Hardy Architects; Jamie Lyn Barhanovich, Cypress Environmental & Infrastructure; Chris Boudreaux, AllState - Chris Boudreaux; Jeremy Compretta, The First Bank; Sarah Crisler-Ruskey, Harrison County Library System; Alex Davis, Neel-Schaffer, Inc.; Bobby Gillon, Gulf Coast Impact Investments; Patty Hammons, Gulf Coast Community Foundation; Vikki Steward Huggins, Sing ing River Health System; Courtney Jacobs, IDR Agency; Alisha Johnson Perry, Gulf Coast Community Foundation; Jennifer King, Hancock Whitney Bank; Jonathan Mc Caslin, Coca-Cola United; Latasha D. McCullar, Blacklidge; Carlos Anthony Moulds; Ingalls Shipbuilding; Elisabeth Naff, Beau Rivage Resort & Casino; Ravin Floyd Nettles, City of Ocean Springs; Tina M. Oakes, AnderCorp, LLC; Margaret O'Beirne Payment, Mississippi Power Com pany; Samuel C. Resultan, Northwestern Mutual; Benji James Richoux, Hancock Whitney Bank; Melvin J. Roland, III; Mississippi Power Company; Erin Rosetti, Memorial Health System; Maria Elaina Saylor, Alexander Van Loon Sloan Levens and Favre; Melissa Schnoor, Singing River Health System; Samantha S Sherrill; City of Gulfport; Am ber Thomas, Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty; Eric Valles, Gulfport Fire Department; Noelle J. Vautour, IP Casino Resort Spa; Dylan T. Wade, Gulf States Engineering, Inc.; Matt Walters, Gulfport High School; Tyler Watters, Wat ters Architecture; Kimberly Maria Weary, Mississippi Dept. Child Protective Services; Jennifer Williams, Community Bank; Tracy L. Yanez, Accelerate Mississippi.

Leadership Gulf Coast is designed to prepare the area’s current and potential leaders for the future. More than 900 leaders have graduated from the program since its inception in 1990.

HANCOCK WHITNEY, GCCF ANNOUNCE 2022 LEO SEAL GRANTS RECIPIENTS

Nine outstanding teachers have earned high marks and monetary awards as the 2022 winners of Leo W. Seal Innovative Teacher Grants.

Funded by Hancock Whitney and administered by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, the grants recognize exceptional commit ment to teaching and fund creative learning projects that enhance students’ educational experiences and support state curriculum at K-12 schools in the eight Mississippi counties Hancock Whitney serves—Forrest, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lamar, Madison and Pearl River.

This year’s recipients of one-time grants of up to $2,000 include:

• Sarah Jane Badeaux at Pass Christian Middle School

• Traci Barrientos at the Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia in Ocean Springs

• Karen Jean Boutwell at Pearl River Central Middle School in Carriere

• Renee M. Dellenger at St. Patrick Catholic High School in Biloxi

• Banita Ford at St. Martin High School in Ocean Springs

• Sarah Virginia Israel at Arlington Elementary School in Pascagoula

• Tammy G. McKenna at Pass Christian High School

• Jordan Roy at St. Stanislaus College in Bay St. Louis

• Erica Yong van Norden at Delisle Elementary School in Pass Christian

The grant recipients share insights about their commitment to teaching at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vLCOE67k0k. Han cock Whitney and GCCF will announce availability of online applica tions for 2023 grants later this year.

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT NAMES MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AMONG STATE’S BEST FOR 2022-2023

U.S. News & World Report has recognized Memorial Hospital as a 2022-2023 Best Hospital, ranking it first in Coastal Mississippi and number three in the state.

Additionally, Memorial was deemed high performing in eight pro cedures/conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, diabetes, co lon cancer surgery, kidney failure, back surgery (spinal fusion), stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The annual Best Hospitals rankings and ratings, now in their 33rd year, are designed to help patients and their doctors make informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health condi tions or elective procedures. U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions for its 2023 ratings.

A variety of measures, such as survival rates, complication rates, pa tient experience and level of nursing care, were considered. For more information, visit health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/rankings and use #BestHospitals on Facebook and Twitter.

Planning for your financial future — Just do it!

BY KATHY ROGERS

Get started! Start over! Now is the perfect time! You are the perfect age!

Are you shaking your head wondering what in the world I’m talking about? I’m talking about your future, about making or updating a plan so your future self will have more financial security than your current self enjoys. You are really shaking your head now. Perhaps your mind is being bombarded with all the reasons why I’m wrong and this is not the right time for you; you’re too busy to deal with this. When you make more money, you’ll get started. You need more information. You’re barely making ends meet as it is. You think you have plenty of time to plan later …. The excuses are endless.

The same excuses generations of people have used may be the same ones you are using today. What are your excuses?

Do you realize that 45 percent of Americans have never saved a penny, and 50 percent of people could not come up with $400 if they needed it for an emergency? Have you? Could you? In a study that asked retirees about their biggest regrets, over 70 percent said they wished they had saved more money. Many people have no financial plan for their retirement. What about you?

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:

• Making the first step is critical. Doing nothing gets you nowhere, so just do it! Get started! If you don’t have an emergency fund, that is a great place to start. Putting away

even a few dollars a week is better than doing nothing.

• Modeling your savings plan after someone else’s, like your parents’, a boss’s or a friend’s, may not be right for you. Your situation is just as unique as you are. One of the big ideas today is that there is some “new big thing,” and that is where you should put your money. If you don’t invest in the “new big thing,” you are missing out. This type of thinking and investing often can lead to devastating loses, especially for those who can’t afford to lose the money. Your plan should be customized and designed around you.

• Procrastination has a cost. For example, if a 25-year-old wants to have $1 million saved by age 65, projections say she would need to save $157 a month. That’s not so bad. But maybe she gets busy with starting a family, a new job, or life just gets in the way, and she delays starting her plan until age 35. She now must put away $439 a month to reach her goal — almost triple what was needed at age 25. If she waits until age 45, the amount increases to $1,306 per month. How can this be possible?

Compound interest is a big factor. Simply put, compound interest is the addition of interest to the principal sum of your

savings; interest is then added to the interest you already have earned, thereby compounding. By delaying your plan, you must make up for the loss of compound interest by making larger payments.

If I can get one point across to you today, it’s this: Just start.

Each person has unique gifts and talents. You may be a creative person, a great thinker or an innovator. Perhaps you work in the medical field, or you are a teacher. Celebrate the gifts you have, but understand it’s not possible for you to know everything about everything. That is why when my car needs work, I take it to a mechanic.

You don’t have to navigate the financial landscape on your own. If you have been unsuccessful so far in preparing for your financial future, or if you have questions about your current direction, reach out to a financial professional and get the assistance you need so that your future self can have the life and retirement you dream of.

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

ENJOY THE VIEW, SAVOR THE FLAVORS AT PARRISH’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

BY KELSIE DOVE

From the service to the atmosphere, and most especially the food, Parrish’s Restaurant and Lounge is a must visit for any food lover on the Coast. Perfect for date nights, dinner with friends or a family brunch, Parrish’s provides an experience to suit any occasion and all tastes.

Parrish’s takes advantage of its excellent location at the edge of the Long Beach Harbor, with its high-rise building and full-length windows treating patrons to beautiful views of the water, wildlife and sunset. Within a few minutes of sitting down, we spotted a red fish and a black drum nibbling on the buoys in the water, and we sat eye-level with seagulls, pelicans and herrings as they patrolled the Gulf waters for their next meal. John McCusker, the restaurant manager, says two dolphins often are spotted in the harbor corralling fish for their Sunday brunch — a spectacle patrons can enjoy while waiting for their own meals.

Parrish’s has a vibe of laid-back elegance, and at every turn, guests see pictures of local coastal scenes that mirror the views available from the windows. There’s a snapshot of Pete, Parrish’s own pelican poltergeist, whose distinctive wing markings and mischievous demeanor make him identifiable to the staff. In the dining room, the cool blue accents on the napkins — which are carefully folded and arranged on the distressed-white tables, each set with a flower and a candle — invite patrons to relax and enjoy every aspect of the dining experience. The smooth sounds of live music drift into the dining room from the lounge just across the split foyer, providing a pleasant backdrop for dinner conversation.

Our server, Ashley, dressed in a crisp, white button-down shirt and a

cool-blue tie perfectly matched to the surrounding decor, welcomed us and recommended drinks from the recently created cocktail menu. Ashley explained that many of the items on the cocktail menu cannot be found anywhere else, as Parrish’s bartenders imagine unique twists to traditional drinks, crafted with house-made syrups and infusions and freshly squeezed juices. I started with the Harbor Sunset, billed as Parrish’s signature cocktail, and my husband enjoyed a Watermelon Sour.

Parrish’s menu features a vast array of land and sea offerings from the starters all the way through the entrees. Executive Chef Ally Bullock implemented a farm-to-table concept in her kitchen, using local vendors to supply the dishes for Parrish’s menu. On our visit, we started with a delicious seafood bread, featuring fresh Gulf shrimp, blue crab and crawfish covered with a cream cheese blend and flavored with Cajun seasonings, all served on fresh French bread au gratin.

For an entree, I chose one of the fish

specials: a triple-tail filet stuffed with a creamed spinach sauce and topped with lump crabmeat. My husband went for the wagyu tomahawk, an extravagant meal and easily enough for two. He resembled a medieval king as the gigantic cut of wagyu beef, slow-roasted and grilled to perfection, was set before him, along with sides of grilled asparagus and sautéed squash and zucchini. Try as we might, we were unable to finish the spread, and Mr. McCusker graciously wrapped up the leftovers — which we enjoyed for the next two days.

Parrish’s lounge provided the perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine before indulging in the kitchen’s delectable dessert offerings. Slightly more casual than the restaurant, the lounge houses a full bar, table service with comfortable, high-back lounge chairs and live music from local talent. From the overstuffed couches, we enjoyed the nighttime view of the Harbor and the smooth jazz sounds of local singer Sully Wilson.

We completed our evening with a

chocolate mousse from Carousel Cakes in Baton Rouge and a house-made whiskey caramel bread pudding with white chocolate topping, Chef Ally’s own special take on bread pudding. Somehow both robust and light, the bread pudding stole the show and was the perfect ending to a night we could’ve happily enjoyed forever. When we left, we felt as though we were parting as friends — not with a goodbye, but with a resounding, “See you soon.”

Parrish’s Restaurant and Lounge is open TuesdayThursday from 4-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 4-10 p.m., and Sunday for brunch from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. More about the restaurant can be found online at www.parrishslbms.com and on Facebook, @parrishslbms.

BY JOY MONNERJAHN

Joy Monnerjahn is the owner of The Bayou Belle, where you will find many Louisiana recipes. She grew up in Southern Louisiana and enjoys bringing the flavors of her home to her dishes. Learn more at https:// www.purejoyliving.net, and reach her at purejoy@purejoyliving.net.

SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH:

Double-Chocolate Reese’s Cookies

It’s October, which means it’s time to get festive! These doublechocolate Reese’s cookies are guaranteed to please kids and adults alike. They are the perfect treat to make for your kid’s classroom or to serve at a Halloween gathering. Don’t forget to share them with your neighbors, too!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 cup room-temperature unsalted butter

• 1.5 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 3 tsp vanilla

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups flour

• 1/2 cup cocoa

• 1/4 cup black cocoa

• Pinch of salt

• 1.5 tsp baking soda

• 1.5 tsp baking powder

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup melting chocolate wafers (dark chocolate)

• 1 cup Reese’s pieces

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoas, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

3. In a stand mixer, beat butter with sugar until the mixture is nice and fluffy and pale in color.

4. Add eggs.

5. Add vanilla.

6. Slowly add the dry mixture.

7. Mix until just combined.

8. Fold in the chocolate chips and the melting chocolate.

9. Scoop with desired-size scooper.

10. Flatten down just a bit, and add Reese’s on top; press them in.

11. Bake for 8-10 minutes; you want them crisp on the outside, but soft in the middle.

Juan Tequilas