Gulf Coast Woman March-April 2015

Build a home

HOME EDITION 2015 Furniture trends

Backyard habitats

OMAN GULF COAST

COMPLIMENTARY

M A R C H - A P R I L 2 01 5

SHEILA HODGES

Woman behind the sparkle

All New GCW

AS GRIEF GRIPS, FAMILY’S FAITH ABOUNDS

MCRANEY HOUSE

FAVORITE RECIPES FOR EASTER & PASSOVER

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

BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYN

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Dr. Christie specializes in minimally invasive Laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of gynecologic pelvic pain.

Michael J. Christie, M.D.

Normal and High Risk Obstetrics Gynecology Laparoscopic Surgery

Dr. Kimber is a Gulf Coast spine surgeon with a mission.

He is seriously enthusiastic about returning patients to a happy productive life through functional and anatomical restoration of their necks and backs.

“It’s satisfying and sometimes miraculous to see the progress of a patient who has suffered so long and perhaps told they had no other real option.” he said “The facts are that modern spine surgery can be transformative when medications and other conservative measures have simply failed.”

Dr. Kimber is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Vanderbilt University, Emory Medical School and Duke University.

He followed these degrees with three advanced fellowships in North Carolina, Australia and Germany.

His international training and experience has given him an unparalleled perspective and experience with the most complex spinal problems and the entire range of minimally invasive treatment solutions.

Diplomate of the American Board of OB/GYN Quality Care - One Patient at a Time Michael J. Christie, M.D. Dr. Christie will take the time to Board Certified OB/GYN address your health care needs

Ocean Springs

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Serving the Gulf Coast for over 10 years 2 March - April 2015

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3

We’re Here to Help You Hear Hearing Testing l Hearing Aids Maintenance & Programming of Aids

Charlene Taylor Karen Slater Jade Garrard

Doctors of Audiology

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We specialize in... diagnostic hearing evaluations, hearing aid selection and fitting, tinnitus treatment, hearing aid repair, custom hearing protection, assistive listening devices and more for both adults and children.

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Schedule Your No-Obligation Appointment.

Office Hours: Monday - Friday • 8am - 5pm, extended hours by request

Louis Vuitton Coach Guess Tory Burch Miss Me Michael Kors Jessica Simpson Vera Bradley Citizens of Humanity Lucky BCBG Antonio Melani Catherine Popesco Tiffany & Co. Gucci Sorrelli Vince Camuto J Crew Rampage Giani Binni to name a few!

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Contents

MARCH - APRIL 2015 Home Edition

23

GCW Inspiration House The first GCW Inspiration House of 2015 is a study in warmth and neutrals.

24

More Than a Makeover!

The winner of the March-April transformation is announced.

66

23

Faith abounds Young child teaches family, others in life and death.

74

All that Taz

Through his art, colorful and enlightening, artist offers an alternative prism through which we may encounter our world.

74

80

IN EVERY ISSUE

17

Money Suzie Sawyer: How prepared are you for long-term care?

16

Success Chantell Barkum: Success is striking a balance between business and family.

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March - April 2015

44

Home Peek inside a Bay St. Louis treasure and visit with the McRaneys.

80

Fashion & Beauty Spring makeup and fashion tips get you ready for warm weather.

92

Food Chef Danie: Celebrate spring with roasted lamb.

98

Coast Cares Kearn Cherry: Where can homeless families go for housing and stay together?

Saturday 2:48 pm

A N E W ( T O Y O U ) C A R G E T S T H E G R E E N L I G H T, THANKS TO REGIONS MY GREENGUIDE.

MAKING A MAJOR PURCHASE? OUR TIPS AND TOOLS CAN HELP YOU MAKE SMARTER DECISIONS. Regions My GreenGuide® is your new resource for tips, tools, calculators and guidance for making smarter money decisions. In the market for a new car? We can help you figure out the best time to buy, what you can afford and which rebates and incentives could save you money. Armed with that information, you can then click over to Regions Auto Center to research dealer inventories and ultimately purchase a vehicle.

See? With a little financial know-how, it’s easy to give life the green light. Ready to move your life forward?

Confidence | Tips | Tools | Money Mojo regions.com/mynewcar © 2014 Regions Bank.

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Angela Bruni

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Dorothy P. Wilson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Michele Pisciotta Judy Abide Rebecca Ritchey Ellis Anderson Lisa Robertson-Marble Chantell Barkum Bryan Rodgers Jackie Castro-Cooper Danie Rodriquez Kearn Cherry Suzie Sawyer Kelsie Dove Elaine Stevens Brandon Elliott Lynn Wade Mallory Fitzgerald James P. Wilson John D. Folding Andrea Yeager Joanne Levanway CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ellis Anderson William Colgin COVER PHOTOGRAPHY William Colgin GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jon Chambers Cheryl Fishman Stacy Wadsworth MARKETING CONSULTANTS Angela Bruni ~ (228) 760-8887 Valerie Cushman ~ (228) 617-0492 Robbie Sharp ~ (228) 365-8486 HOW TO REACH US 15431 O’Neal Road, Suite B Gulfport, MS 39503 (228) 539-2422 www.gcwmultimedia.com Advertising services angelabruni@gcwmultimedia.com Editorial services dorothywilson@gcwmultimedia.com ©2015 Gulf Coast Woman is published six times per year and is available free of charge.

We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we reserve the right to refuse or edit them. Gulf Coast Woman is not responsible for unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

Angela Bruni

Dorothy P. Wilson

You are Gulf Coast Woman!

More than ever, Gulf Coast Woman is your magazine. You can see it and feel it throughout this issue.

GCW cares about what you care about. Read Coast Cares in this issue.

GCW makes plenty of room for you to share in every issue. That’s what a real friend does, right? Shares. Check out the new Arts & Entertainment section in this issue. It features a short story and a poem, both submitted by readers.

Another new segment is Faith. You will be encouraged, challenged and inspired by the stories here.

GCW appreciates what you appreciate, including all of the talented artists on our beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast. Be sure to visit with artist Tazewell Morton in this issue.

And GCW loves to inform you and stretch your imagination. That’s what the Home Edition is all about. Don’t miss the first GCW Inspiration House inside. You’ll discover one in each issue going forward.

Are you convinced yet? You are Gulf Coast Woman!

We like you. If you haven’t shown that you like us, that you’re a GCW woman, go to our Facebook page and “like” us.

And we encourage you to like our advertisers as well. Their support makes GCW possible. “Like” their page and check out what they have to offer.

Enjoy!

TALK TO US AngelaBruni@gcwmultimedia.com DorothyWilson@gcwmultimedia.com 8

March - April 2015

About PRN

PRN Home Care is a non-medical home care company that provides the following services to allow individuals to remain in their home despite their age or disability: adult companionship/sitter service, homemaker/housekeeping services, errand runners/drivers, nursing assistant and bath aides. Full services national residential and business moving services.

PRN team

Vicki Hensley, Marketing Director

Cameron Hensley, Marketing Representative

Kearn Cherry, Vice President of Operations

Homemakers • Companions/Sitters • Bath

Brannon LeBlanc, Marketing Public Relations Liaison

Denise Cherry, Administrative Assistant

Aides • Nursin g Aides • LPN and RN

Caring for your needs in the comfort of your own home!

1-888-782-3316 228-385-2603 www.prnhomecareservices.com

prnstaf@aol.com

Providing quality senior assistance

Follow us at

R.I.P.E. is 6 years old! Don’t miss this opportunity to promote your brand to seniors, their adult children & family caregivers.

This year’s conference will be bigger than ever.

The Ultimate Tool for Seniors, Caregivers and Case Managers

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Sponsorships available include expo space, print, online and social media marketing, advertising space and recognition at the event.

Choose the level that’s right for you!

Confirm sponsorship by April 6, 2015 For more information, call Kearn Cherry kearn@prnhomecareservices.com • (228) 239-1867 or Vicki Hensley vicki@prnhomecareservices.com • (228) 355-4459

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See rates, levels and package benefits and book your sponsorship today!

Brought to you by: 10

March - April 2015

Become a sponsor and see your logo on all promotions & advertising!

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of 2014Rock! logo Blessed GyrlsRefresh Who will be recognized on April 25, 2015, at the Biloxi Civic Center.

Proposed 2015 Update

Please go to www.FamilyofFaithBiloxi.com and

Nominate a Gem in your Life For more information, please contact Kearn Cherry (228) 239-1867 or CJ Johnson (228) 380-1710 or email FamilyofFaith.ccm@gmail.com.

WOMEN’S COnfeRENCE APRIL 25, 2015 B I LO X I C I V I C C E N T E R 8 : 3 0 A . M . - 3 P. M .

Great Speakers The Lucimarian Roberts’ Awards Music • Vendors • Food and More

5k-Walk for Life March 28th • 8 a.m.

This will be a joint event with the Women’s Resource Center.

For more information, contact Tiffany Bell at 228.365.8887

Join the Inspiration

COVER STORY

The woman behind the sparkle Sheila Hodges’ brilliance shines far beyond Mississippi

R

By Dana Sleger | Photography by William Colgin

Above, Sheila Hodges leads Gulfport company that is expanding nationally.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

ight off Dedeaux Road in Gulfport, there is a jewel of a shop that radiates with the most extraordinary palette of colors: Pacific opal, golden shadow, black diamond, vintage rose, summer blush. And that’s just a handful of hues in the rainbow of gems offered through the Victoria Lynn Jewelry line.

This premier line of handcrafted pieces is brilliantly embellished with the finest array of genuine Swarovski crystal elements — an exclusive collection that illustrates a stunning balance of elegance, class and vibrancy to dazzle the eye of any beholder.

Sheila Hodges, owner and principal artist of Victoria Lynn Jewelry, is the sparkle behind Victoria Lynn. Her masterful eye for color selection, whimsical knack for design and intimate attention to detail have produced a collection uniquely set apart with the highest standards of creative excellence.

Each bracelet, earring, necklace and ring carries unparalleled quality, but that type of intricate care isn’t anything new to Hodges.

Many Coast residents remember The Bead Shak, a bead store full of supplies for local crafters and a place where clientele could learn beading tips and techniques.

It also served as a hub of innovation for Hodges and her team of artisans to create one-of-a-kind jewelry that involved handstringing copious amounts of seed beads.

Some pieces were even accentuated with extraordinary, hand-blown glass beads Hodges made.

Prior to opening the business in 2003, Hodges was a hairdresser for 18 years and she will never forget the day she was introduced to beading.

“I was doing a customer’s hair and she noticed the bead bracelet I was wearing and asked if I bead,” Hodges recalls. “I remember looking at her puzzled and said, ‘Bead? What’s that?’ The next week she came in for her follow-up hair 11

appointment and brought me a box of handmade bead pieces she made. She explained what beading was all about, and from that moment I was hooked.”

Hodges quickly began to learn as much about beading as possible, and thanks to her supportive family, The Bead Shak was opened and operated for 11 years.

“I loved my bead store and loved my customers more than anything,” Hodges says. “The most rewarding thing was seeing customers light up after making their own piece of jewelry. Of course, I cried when we closed it down, but we had a big party in honor of all the great memories that happened at The Bead Shak.”

For three years, Hodges balanced The Bead Shak and the Victoria Lynn line together, but last year, a weighty decision was made to close the bead business to explore a more prismatic course of adventure. After being captivated by crystals, Hodges transitioned her jewelry design focus to embrace an exquisite line solely devoted to showcasing the radiant characteristics of Swarovski elements.

The lustrous brand is now well known beyond state lines and is growing nationwide. Currently, Victoria Lynn is sold in 18 states.

Hodges’ passion as a jewelry artisan rests in the ability to make women look and feel beautiful when gracefully bedecked with eye-catching crystal couture. However, she admits her strong faith in God and the priceless support from her husband and best friend, Joey, are the most valuable treasures of her business.

“Victoria Lynn is in the Lord’s hands and that’s the most important aspect of this business, and without my husband, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Hodges says. “I design the jewelry, but he makes it work. You don’t see him at the store, but he’s a behind-the-scenes type of guy who keeps us running and makes everything flow as smoothly as possible.”

The Hodges have four daughters — Victoria, Charity, Katherine and Olivia — and they all have grown up in the jewelry business, from the days at The Bead Shak to now each playing a vital role in the success of Victoria Lynn.

“The experience all four of us girls had growing up was wonderful,” says Katherine, 17. “I have watched my mom throughout the years and she never gave up on her dreams and I couldn’t be more proud. She’s my greatest role model and the way she can create jewelry is amazing. She makes it a masterpiece and one day I would like to do that as well.”

Charity, 22, adds: “There are many nights I don’t thank the Lord enough for the opportunity to work with my parents and sisters,” she says. “My mom loves seeing her jewelry shine on people, but her greatest jewel is her family.”

Together, the Hodges family has built the business on a reputable foundation of signature craftsmanship bound by a divine bond of faith, hope and love — a generational blessing that makes Hodges sparkle with great joy and gratitude.

Hodges’ daughters, from left: Victoria, 25, and her daughter, Caroline; Charity, 22; Katherine, 17; Olivia, 16. Below, Victoria Lynn’s jewelry can be found in bracelets, rings and necklaces.

FIND VICTORIA LYNN JEWELRY BAY ST. LOUIS Fashion Express BILOXI Antique Store, Beau Rivage Salon Alexander The Paper Moon Tickled Pink Trends Boutique, IP Casino DIAMONDHEAD Exit 16 GAUTIER Coral Boutique GULFPORT Bella Rose Boutique Elle Boutique Emily Grace Fazzio’s Home & Farm Center Joy’s Hallmark KILN Coastal Hardware & Rental LLC DaSwamp Shack LAUREL It’s What A Girl Wants

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March - April 2015

LONG BEACH Hair Affair Salon MCCOMB Friend Girl Thing MOSS POINT Coastal Bling OCEAN SPRINGS LeCelebrations Lucia’s Hallmark PASCAGOULA Lee Tracy Miss Priss Party Girls PICAYUNE Dancewear Connection & Gifts POPLARVILLE Way Out West VANCLEAVE High Stylin’ Boutique WIGGINS Island Dreams

228-214-7186 Premium Outlets 10525 Factory Shop Blvd • Gulfport • MS www.facebook.com/shopelleboutique845

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SUCCESS

By Chantell Barkum

Striking a balance between business and family

Most business owners are passionate about their business, which easily allows for entrepreneurs to work grueling hours in the pursuit of a successful business. Oftentimes, women face the challenge of managing their business and their family; both take time and dedication in order to grow. Between networking, budget, business meetings, soccer games, PTO, band practice, rehearsals and plays, there arises the big question: How do I satisfy both? Since we can’t add a 25th hour to the day, consider these tips when attempting to balance your professional and personal responsibilities.

PRIORITIZE AND SCHEDULE Identify non-negotiable priorities like family dinner, a set-aside time for each child, date night or a weekly outing. Now build a schedule around those priorities and stick to it. This will ensure that those essential family moments will never be missed!

FIX YOUR FOCUS Limiting distractions will assist in accomplishing the task at hand. While at work, leave family issues at home and vice versa. For example, during movie night with the family, make sure to leave your phone on silent so that family time is not interrupted by that client who insists that they need you now! Most often, the crisis that the client has can wait. Realize that you cannot be 100 percent effective on a given project while attempting to multitask other tasks. Focusing on one project at a time ensures that you will do it … and do it well!

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS ... BUILD YOUR FAMILY Growing your business requires dedication. In those initial growth stages, there’s an ongoing battle between sacrificing time for the business and for the family. Why not merge the two? This presents an opportunity to share your world with your family. Take the family out on the weekend to help pass out flyers at events or nearby communities. Make it fun by turning it into a game; the person who passes out the most flyers gets to ride “shotgun” on the way home!

WORDS TO WORK BY

Treat work as the gift it is

By Paige Roberts Just as our word is our bond, so is our work. It communicates who we are in heart and spirit, and for better or worse, it is our work that adorns our reputation. I continually strive to wear my work as if it were haute couture. In almost 30 years of working, I have known moments of which I am forever proud, that felt like Dior or de la Renta. However, I must admit that some days my best work is better described as a sweatshirt and “mom” jeans.

The choice to be a working mother can be a tough one.

When doubt weighs me down and seeks to convince me I am dis-serving my sons, ages 13, 10, and 6, I shoo it away with assurances that my work is teaching them important life lessons, such as a strong work ethic is more valuable than Madden 15 (substitute Steve Madden shoes if you have daughters).

Reliability and responsibility beat convenience; similarly, showing up is better than showing out. Most importantly, to whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48). Whether labor is physical or mental, its purpose is ultimately divine.

We need to treat our work as the gift it is. The opportunity to use our minds and bodies to contribute to our communities is a gift to us, and the results of our efforts are a gift to others.

The ability to bring home a paycheck is a gift to our families; our tithe of that compensation is a gift back to God, who provided the work. It is the circle of work and giving. Take joy in the experience, and remember to wear it as the finest fabrics fit for fabulous feats. Our work is our bond.

ASK FOR HELP Asking for help can alleviate some of the pressures of managing both your business and your family. Finding ways to reduce your workload can open your schedule for more family and/or business activities. Try asking a family member to assist with household duties or establishing a carpool schedule to assist with transporting the children to school or sporting events. This simple trick can easily add one or two hours to your day.

TREAT YOURSELF So you have figured out a way to satisfy both your business and your family. It’s time to pat yourself on the back! In order for your business or your family to succeed, they need you to be the best that you can be.

This requires that you take some time to celebrate you! When setting your schedule make sure to include some rejuvenation time because neither your business nor your family can operate without you!

Chantell Barkum is director of Women’s Business Center at Climb Community Development Corporation, 1316 30th Avenue, Gulfport.

Reach her at (228) 864-6677 or cbarkum@climbcdc.org.

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March - April 2015

Roberts is cocoordinator of Pathways2Possibilities, an interactive career expo designed for all eighth-graders in private and public schools in the six lower counties of Mississippi.

MONEY

How prepared are you for long-term care?

By Suzie Sawyer Have you given any thought to the impact entering a long-term care facility could have on your finances? Would the cost of a nursing home place a financial burden on your family and loved ones? No one likes to think about these issues, for we all hope to live long healthy lives, without major medical problems that would prevent us from taking care of ourselves. The truth is, Americans are living longer and the prospect of needing some type of long-term care in our later years is greater than ever.

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) estimates the average nursing home stay is 2 1/3 years, with 55 percent staying for one year and 21 percent staying for five years or more. Half of all women and one-third of all men who live past the age of 65 will later spend time in a nursing home. Currently, the average cost of a nursing home is approximately $50,000 per year, and even more in some states.

If you are concerned about your assets being depleted by the cost of care in your senior years, long-term care insurance can help cover the risk of financial loss resulting from in-home care or placement in a nursing home.

Virtually all policies sold provide coverage for all or part of the cost of alternative care services, such as assisted-living facilities, home health care, and adult day care. A good policy will begin paying for care when you need help performing two of the standard “activities of daily

Do you own business real estate?

living.” These activities include eating, dressing, bathing, maintaining continence, the ability to move to and from the bathroom, and the ability to change body positions, such as from lying in bed to standing.

All new long-term care policies are either guaranteed renewable or non-cancelable. A guaranteed renewable policy allows for coverage to be continued as long as you pay the premiums. The policyholder can’t be singled out for a rate increase, but rates can go up for a whole class of holders. A non-cancelable policy is one in which your coverage and current rates are guaranteed. This type of policy isn’t very common.

While the cost of long-term care insurance can be high, by purchasing a policy early, such as in your 40s and 50s, the premium rates can be significantly cheaper than if you wait until your 60s.

However, in some circumstances, later is better than never obtaining a policy.

Choose an experienced investment professional to help you understand the role that long-term care insurance can play in your overall financial picture.

Suzie P. Sawyer is a managing director/investment advisor representative of Trinity Investment Services, LLC and can be reached at (228) 864-4460. Securities offered through Century Securities Associates, Inc. Member SIPC and FINRA.

Independent Contractors – Are You Aware of Your Retirement Planning Options?

Tax law changes for 2014 could increase tax savings

Call

228.396.2996 We can help.

Now may be the time for you, as an independent contractor, to establish a SIMPLE IRA or SEP IRA and start saving for your retirement. Contact us to find out how much you could save by age 65 and for more information on SIMPLE IRAs or SEP IRAs. Robert J. Sawyer

Managing Director Investment Advisor Representative

Suzie Pierce Sawyer

Managing Director Investment Advisor Representative

(228) 864-4460 | (877) 896-4664 | www.sawyerteam.com

15506 Lemoyne Blvd., Ste D Biloxi, MS 39532

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Home Office: 501 North Broadway, St. Louis, Missouri 63102 | (314) 342-4050

My garden

‘My childhood memories in bloom’

By Melanie Lynch If you were to ask me why I garden, my reasons would be the same as most Southern women, I suppose: Because I get to help create something beautiful, because it’s my special place in the world, because it relieves stress, and because it’s a gift to be shared with others.

If you ask me why I started gardening and what it means to me, the answer would have to be heritage. My father and I bonded through gardening. I don’t know if he taught me because he noticed my interest, or if I pretended to be interested so that I could spend extra time with my father, but it makes no difference. He is the reason I bury rusty nails around the roots of hydrangeas, why I marvel at camellia blooms and why I dislike gardenia bushes so.

He’s why I can never throw away an old, worn out garden tool, why I shoo away sparrows and blue jays, why I always mix oak leaves in the soil when I plant azaleas, why I can’t stand to wear garden gloves and why I have buckets of fresh rainwater sitting around the yard.

And because he first taught me, I taught my son, and hopefully he will teach his children.

The plants I love the most in my yard aren’t mine at all. They are my grandmother’s striped amaryllis, my father’s camellia sasanqua, purple coneflowers, climbing roses and pesky wild violets that stowed away in almost every pot that came from my Dad’s house. They are my childhood memories in bloom.

Melanie Lynch and her father

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March - April 2015

Lighthouse BPW announces

New Executive Board PRESIDENT – Kearn Cherry, PRN Home Care VP OF PROGRAMS -Tiffany Bell, Women’s Resource Center

VP OF MEMBERSHIP- Barbara Butiro, retired TREASURER – Debby Cleveland, BRMC SECRETARY –Vicki Hensley, PRN home care

& S.A.F.E.

Lighthouse Business & Professional Women is here to help women advance their careers. Our mission is to unite professional women, support business and community relationships, and provide leadership skills and networking opportunities.

Call for more information about membership and speaking opportunities. 228-239-1867 or email: kearn@prnhomecareservices.com.

Creative Solutions Peak Performance Exceptional Results We are an effective corporate and community partner specializing in strategic planning, project development and leadership development.

UPCOMING SPEAKERS: MARCH

Guest Speaker: Natalie Guess

Social media, Part 2 “Making Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest Work for Your Business” NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT: Gulf Coast Health Educators

APRIL Guest Speaker: Cree Cantrell Women and Finance NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT:

Climb CDC

Lighthouse BPW (Business and Professional Women) meet monthly.

We meet every 3rd Wednesday at Biloxi Regional Medical Center from noon to 1pm. Lunch is $10. First time guest is free!

How to be the smartest in the class:

Let’s talk!

901.651.7167

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“Being a member of the Boys & Girls Club has taught me that you are not the past, but the creator of your future” - Dominique Howard, 2013

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P.O. Box 940 D’Iberville, MS 39540 (228) 896-3770

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Do you understand the changes in credit-card processing

By Bryan Rodgers I encounter businesses on a regular basis that express frustration over credit card processing: Why does it have to be so complicated?

Why are fees so high? What is EMV and NFC, and how does it affect my business? How are major chain stores being “hacked” into and customers’ card information being stolen?

For both businesses and consumers, the world of credit-card processing is changing at an accelerated pace and it is difficult to keep up. This technology push is creating convenience for consumers and value for businesses, but it also opens the door for identity theft, fraud and other abuses.

With all the discussions inside the industry, it has been widely assumed that people know all about Europay, MasterCard, Visa (EMV ) and its counterpart, Near Field Communication (NFC). Unfortunately, there is a lack of understanding regarding these terms and how it impacts business and consumers.

BUSINESSES

By the end of 2015, it is estimated that 70 percent of credit cards and 41 percent of debit cards in the United States will be EMV-enabled.

Business owners will therefore be required to have equipment capable of accepting EMV transactions.

Most businesses in the area are not compliant and will be hurt substantially if they do not upgrade equipment and begin to prepare properly. Beware that a number of payment processing companies are “phishing” and “scamming” businesses, and then locking them into contracts, lease/purchases, etc.

There is so much misinformation floating around, but it does not have to be complicated. Being compliant helps the business to further attract the growing client base that is heavily interacting with mobile technology, apps, mobile loyalty/reward programs, mobile payments, Apple Pay, etc. Another huge benefit of compliance is that it offers protection for businesses from data theft, whereas not being compliant can open the business up to more serious liability.

CONSUMERS

Individuals are now receiving credit cards with EMV standard chips encrypted in the card. However, although new or replacements cards are arriving, many people don’t know the benefit of the chip, which actually provides added data security throughout the payment process.

It also provides consumers the ability to use the same convenient mobile technologies mentioned above. This paves the way to connect with mobile-based systems that are optimized to integrate together in many ways.

SEE CREDIT CARD ON PAGE 89

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H ME EDITION

Springtime is refresh and renew time! GCW’s first annual HOME EDITIO is loaded with information and tips to transform your home, patio and garden into a warm, inviting place to relax and live.

Photography by William Colgin

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23

Inspiration HOUSE

Refined warmth Photography by William Colgin

The key inspiration behind the project was Rosemary Beach, Fla., a place the homeowner describes as her “happy place.” “She asked me to make her feel as if she was perpetually on vacation there.

Besides this, her sole direction for me was to ‘make it beautiful,” says interior designer Ashley Grant.

To achieve this vision, Grant used neutral, light colors. “When using a tone-on-tone color pallet such as this one, you have to be careful that it doesn’t go flat; the way to achieve this is to incorporate lots of texture,” Grant says.

24

March - April 2015

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25

How she did it “There were two main things we did to accomplish the essence of the design.

First, we removed the dark walnut-stained flooring and replaced it with wide-plank, white oak, wire-brushed floors throughout, except for the laundry room and guest bath, where we installed white Peacock Papers.”

“Next, we repainted all of the existing orange cyprus cabinets and bookcases, which before had really dated the house.

This alone made a huge impact. We also removed all of the original, outdated trim work.”

“At first, I had a hard time convincing the homeowner to undertake this expense, but once I showed her an example, she realized it would completely transform the look of her house.”

26

March - April 2015

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“Another central feature in the design plan was to layer accessories, which majorly increased comfort and truly made all the difference in the world.�

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SEE YOUR PROJECT OR HOME FEATURED Contact the editor Dorothy Wilson at dorothywilson@ gcwmultimedia.com or associate editor Ray Ebberman at raysinteriordesign@msn.com.

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March - April 2015

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Home furnishing trends What High Point shows, we wanna do!

The High Point Market captivates some 5,000 visitors from more than 100 countries in orth Carolina each year. The 2,000 exhibits span every category, style and price point, making this a furniture mecca for style spotters. The next High Point Market is set for April, but some of the fall winter trends will carry right on over into spring. The High Point Market Authority’s style spotters scoured the market for the hottest must-have items and then translated their picks into today’s top trends. Take a hint from their notes in the High Point Market Authority Report.

Mitzi Beach says …

Jeanne Chung says …

Shay Geyer says …

RICH HUES SIGNAL RICH TIMES

REVIVAL OF THE “BRUTALIST” MOVEMENT

I loved the creativity with materials I saw in some of the most gorgeous furnishings.

Acrylic and brass were in abundance but the pieces that really knocked my socks off combined materials to create ama ing statement pieces. amie Drake mixed metals with deep, rich stains at Theodore Alexander. Glass floated above acrylic legs in Caracole’s sophisticated see-through desk.

And hand-applied gold leaf blended with an anti ue mirror and hand carved hardware in the Calypso Chest by Worlds Away.

Historically, our color and style selections reflect the economy. The use of more color indicates that the economy is trending up and consumers are ready to make bolder choices. or many though, a little color goes a long way. Calculated pieces add drama and interest, bringing a pop of color that is current and on trend. eds are showing in all shades, the love of coral is still strong, and blue-green teals in malachite finishes are ubi uitous.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL

GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN

A new emphasis on wood grain is emerging. The traditional eanne Chung rules regarding which way the grain should run on any given piece of furniture are being totally disregarded. eneers are now being applied with the grain running in every direction, and are used to provide a contrast in wood grain and color.

DEBBIE BATIA’S TIPS

uyers today are sometimes unsure of their future furniture needs. thers have determined to go the luxury apartment route or to downsi e. Enter the demand for multifunctional furniture. These welldesigned pieces can be used in an entry or bedroom, in living areas or even in the kitchen. The possibilities are endless to match the anything is possible lifestyles of an America on the move.

Characteri ed by repeated modular elements, angular features and intentionally rough, unfinished surfaces, this raw and unrefined aesthetic made its influence felt throughout market. I found it featured most prominently in fashion-forward lighting but also in furniture and wall art statement pieces. True to the rutalist movement, these pieces are meant as an expression of material, an effort to embrace the imperfect, and to show an appreciation for handmade craft.

Photograph from the High Point Market Authority Report, 2014

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March - April 2015

COLOR & PATTERN

The brand new eo Charcoal fabric on C aine’s Windsor chair hits a high note as far as pattern goes. ramed in contrasting black, it was given a powerful punch of color with Schumacher’s Chiang Mai onyx fabric on a throw pillow. In the omph showroom, we saw how to add life to a room through color in your case goods. Their traditional threedrawer chest is offered in 16 lac uer colors, as well as two new wood finishes - Storm Slate

Debbie Batia, owner of D.Batia Interiors, LLC, doing business as Merchiston Hall Galleries on Pass Road in Biloxi, says keep in mind that watching HGTV doesn’t make you an expert in space planning, scale and proportions. When choosing colors, fabrics and styles for a new or remodeled home, factors such as ceiling height and wall location are important. If the room is compact, an oversized couch may be comfy but makes the room feel overcrowded and uninviting. And is there adequate space for chairs and tables needed to complete the space? Those beautiful rooms you see on websites and catalogs received in the mail look fabulous, but don’t make the mistake in thinking you will get the same look if you purchase those pieces. The same furniture pieces may not work in a home setting where space is more limited.

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BUYING A HOME Tips to improve your experience and maximize your investment

By Brandon Elliott

O

n a day when any information can be found by the click of a mouse, it leaves us reali ing we have ust enough information to know there are options out there we have yet to find. ou could say we know ust enough to be dangerous. When it comes to buying the largest investment most of us will make in our lifetime, we want to be sure to exhaust all options so we know the decisions made are the perfect ones for us and our families. ecause purchasing a home is such a substantial investment, it leaves room to either make a lot of money or lose a lot of money but the most important thing to reali e is this money is not gained or lost until we sell. Also keep in mind real estate always goes up over the long term, so buying something we can afford in case we need to hold is extremely important.

The areas to pay attention to most in purchasing a home, whether it is new construction or existing home are location, s uare footage, price, future repairs needed, family needs and taxes insurance utility bills a hidden category that most miss. These all play a role in your monthly cost and determine whether you are getting in over your head.

LOCATION

eing close to family, work, school and shopping can result in huge savings of both time and money so location definitely should be considered. Driving an extra 20 miles a day to and from work is 0 additional miles. At five days a week and 0 weeks a year subtract holidays that is 10,000 extra miles per year. This will cost an average of , 00 per year or per month in fuel and vehicle maintenance. y not considering this, you can see how uickly this can empty cash out of your pocket that you may have been counting as spending money. or families with children, school ones also are extremely important. The uality of the school system and teachers will make a lifelong impact on your children.

Also, when choosing a location, consider future development around your new home. If the municipality has a development planned that will lower the value of your property, this will negatively impact your investment. n the other hand, if the city has a pro ect planned that will improve your value, this will increase the amount of e uity in the home. This can put some money in your pocket when you go to sell down the road.

AMENITIES AND SQUARE FOOTAGE

Photograph courtesy of Elliott Homes

Every family is different and knowing your needs to live well is very important. Now keep in mind a 6,000-s uare-foot house with 12-foot ceilings, 2 -inch crown molding, outdoor kitchen with a 1,200 s uare-foot porch overlooking the ocean is not a need as much as you think it might be. That would fall into the want category. Write down your wants and needs so SEE NEW HOME ON PAGE 34

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March - April 2015

BUILDING I DInG DREAMS Rea S ON on YOUR o R LOT OT OR o oR O oURS RS Audubon Lake Duckworth Road Estates Malpass West Palmetto Pointe

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LLIOTT HOMES

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33

NEW HOME

Be sure to factor taxes, insurance in your budget

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

your family can live well and not be house-poor. Match your budget monthly payment to your needs, then decide what wants you can add to the house so you can assure your monthly payments are made without putting your family under financial stress. tili e your builder or real estate agent to help you determine the costs of your wants.

While you are choosing these wants and needs, certainly consider each of them as an investment, meaning will someone else pay you for them in the future when you sell. It is always good to plan for the future. Will you get your money back on the investment? or example, choosing very expensive appliances because of name brand when you can get the same uality or outcome for half the price might not be helping you down the road.

FUTURE REPAIRS AND BUYING NEW OR USED

Municipalities are strengthening codes to improve construction and energy efficiency, which means you may not get that value in a home built 10 years ago. New homes come with a warranty, so you can sleep at night knowing that if an issue arises, it will be covered by your builder.

However, sometimes you can’t find your needs or the location you want in a new home, making an older home the only option. Existing tends to be less expensive comparatively than new construction. Hire a home inspector on existing homes every time so you can be aware of potential problems before investing in a property. And you could ask the seller pay for repairs before you purchase. This will be the best 00 you have ever spent. n new construction, the home is inspected by certified inspectors as well as your licensed contractor, so in most cases it’s not necessary to pay for a home inspection. However, it’s your choice if you feel there might be issues in the home.

If you do decide to go with new construction, there are things you need to keep in mind. Get references of previous buyers from your builder and contact them. The warranty on a new home is not worth the paper it is written on if the builder goes out of business or is not willing to help you. Some builders will actually help you with service issues that are not warranty problems ust because they want to ensure your experience is great. thers will try to make a warranty issue your fault so they don’t bear the expense for repairs. This is kind of a fine line, so choose a builder with high integrity.

Also make sure you and your builder are both on the same page as to what you are getting. eing half way through a new build and finding out your dream kitchen is not part of your home purchase is really upsetting, especially if you are at the top of your budget. uilders have all different ways to ensure communication levels are good Ask the builder how he or she will guarantee your expectations are met. If the answer is ust trust me, you might want to look at a different builder and call those references.

When choosing a plan, strongly consider a plan the builder has built before. The builder knows the exact costs for the plan.

When you build an unfamiliar plan, the builder may pad the budget for the unknown because the house has not been built, which will mean you might pay more per s uare foot. nowledge is power, and the more you understand the better decision you can make so don’t ust ump on the first opportunity you see. Exhaust your options and make the correct decisions for you and your family.

34

March - April 2015

TAXES, INSURANCE AND MONTHLY PAYMENTS AND CLOSING COSTS

We all know what we can afford per month, but the uestion is, are we missing something in our budget that will increase this number.

This could mean the difference between making your payment and losing your home, so definitely know these numbers well. And don’t forget about homeowner association dues.

Shop bank to get the best interest rates. The difference between 0. percent on your interest rate can be hundreds a month depending on your house price. n a 200,000, 0-year mortgage at . percent interest, your payment is .0 and you are paying 12 , 12.1 in interest over the 0-year term. n a 200,000, 0- year mortgage at . percent, your payment is 1,01 . and you are paying 16 , 1 . 2 in interest over the 0-year term. our utilities are usually an unknown when purchasing a house, but the best thing to do is look at historical bills. If you are going to purchase an existing home, ask for electric bills for the past year to see what the costs are. Homebuyers can see substantial savings on power bills by making their home envelope a tight one.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

No matter what you decide the best choice is for you, be sure to educate yourself. Today in the information age builders, real estate agents and brokers are not ust there to close, they are also there to educate. They should want to help you even if your direction is not purchasing their product. Start with contracting a real estate broker, a builder and a banker to learn your options.

Also, remember to en oy this fun experience.

Elliott is president of Elliott Homes, LLC. For more info on Elliott Homes, go to www.myelliotthome.com.

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HOUSE HUNTING? Is an adjustable or fixed rate best for you?

Home ownership remains a goal for many across America, including South Mississippi, because it allows the homeowner to build e uity and savings while making payments. With so many mortgage options available, how do you determine the right finance plan for your needs? aren Hartness, Mortgage Department manager with eesler ederal Credit nion, advises future homeowners to consider getting the best return on your investment as an important factor in determining the best mortgage for you.

FIXED VERSUS ADJUSTABLE

With a fixed rate mortgage, the borrower agrees to pay back a loan at a fixed interest rate for a specific amount of time. The monthly principle and interest stay the same throughout the duration of the loan. If you plan to be in your home for a long time, the stability of a fixed rate mortgage may fall into the pro column for you. Conversely, if market interest rates fell to a much lower rate, you would be re uired to refinance the fixed rate mortgage and pay another round of closing costs and fees to take advantage of the lower rate. With an A M, the rate would ad ust automatically at the predetermined period depending on

36

March - April 2015

the current index and margin without the hassle of refinancing. n average, most homeowners move every six to ten years, whether it’s to change neighborhoods, upgrade to a larger home or transfer obs. This is one reason why an A M can be very attractive to some buyers. or the first few years, it works like a fixed rate loan, but the rate and payment is lower than a fixed rate mortgage. This means you could end up paying less than you do for rent, or the savings may allow you to consider buying a larger home.

At a specified point in the loan term, the interest rate will ad ust.

The ad ustment could be very minimal or none at all if the cost of funds index rate goes down. The rate can go as low as the floor rate, with a resulting lower payment. If market rates go up, your rate may also rise at the specified ad ustment period. This can make people nervous about an A M if they haven’t considered this ad ustment when budgeting.

To ensure you’re choosing the right mortgage for you, consult with a mortgage advisor you can trust when making a decision.

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37

It’s all in the details

5 tips to make your new home cozy

By Judy Abide So you have the keys to your new house f course, you changed the locks and have thoroughly cleaned the house. The furniture has been moved in and yet something is missing .

ADD SOMETHING ANTIQUE OR VINTAGE

If a room seems a bit cold, an instant way to warm it up and give it depth and richness is to add an anti ue. An anti ue heirloom or vintage piece picked up at a thrift store will give the room personality and a soul. If the vintage piece’s color is not right, ust paint it with chalk paint. Do you have an old picture frame that is not ust the right color?

In about 1 minutes, it can be transformed into a statement piece.

CREATE MOOD

Purchase and arrange all the candles you can get your hands on.

Arrange them on a silver or vintage tray. If you have a fireplace, don’t be afraid to use it.

C EATE G D SME S Make up a reason to bake something. If there is not time for that,

then fill up a pot with herbs including bay leaf, cinnamon sticks, orange rind and lemon rinds and whole clove. ust fill a saucepan with water, add your ingredients, bring to a boil, and turn down to simmer. Set a timer for 0 minutes.

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION

I may have heard this before, but it bears repeating. If you have a chair, make sure there is a table next to it. If you sit down, you must have a place for a drink and a book or tablet. It sounds so simple but many homes leave out this detail. If you have seating for four people in your living area, make sure everyone has a place to put their drink.

While on the sub ect of seating, a down pillow is one way to increase the comfort and co yiness of a room. Most fabric stores carry the down inserts for pillows. It is so easy to customi e with monograms or an accent fabric.

Now, call over some friends to share your en oyment Judy Abide is a licensed agent with Gollott Lyons Real Estate and a free-lance interior designer. Reach her at judyhabide@ gmail.com. Follow her on Pinterest (judyonjordan), Twitter @ judy_abide and Instagram@judyabide.

Time for a spring fling In whose real life has this conversation ever happened?

Wife I really want to have a party, but I ust don’t have the time to pull it off. Plus this house is a wreck. It’s needs a fresh coat of paint, there’s dust everywhere and with soccer games and ballet class sigh.

Husband I really want to make you happy, honey. Pick a paint color and I’ll paint the great room for you and call in a cleaning service to spruce up the house so you have time to take the kids to their activities.

In your dreams, right?

Well, there are some exceptionally simple things you can do to get ready for a party that won’t break you and won’t take up too much of your time. Here are some tips and tricks to get you motivated. irst impressions go a long way To make it look like you went all out, make sure the lawn is mowed and edged the day of the party. The scent of fresh cut grass is always pleasant. reshen your flowerpots with new flowers. our winter pots are probably 38

March - April 2015

looking a little bedraggled, so if nothing else, grab a pre-done pot or two from the home store and arrange them by your front door.

Set out fresh flowers Place them on your buffet or dining table or even in the kitchen where everyone tends to congregate. This always makes people think you made a special effort to spruce up.

Most grocery stores have bou uets ready to go or have grab-and-go stems you can arrange yourself. reshen furniture eeling a little more ambitious? Try putting a slipcover on your sofa or adding some throw pillows to your chairs. Small changes can really energi e you and give your room a whole new look.

Go outside With spring upon us, why have the party inside? It’s a great time of the year to have a patio party. eep it simple with a make-yourown sandwich station or grill hamburgers and hotdogs and have guests bring all the fixings.

Serve beer and wine or sangria and call it a

party.

Simplify your to-do list A man asked Confucius once said, How do you eat an elephant? The answer was ne bite at a time. Many times we lose focus on a pro ect because it seems too big, and when it seems too big then it starts feeling like a chore or work. So in this case, identify what you want to do and then break it down into little things that only take a few minutes a day to accomplish. Write them down and check them off as you go.

Give yourself a break, too. More than likely you aren’t like your mother or grandmother, who was able to stay home and cook and clean all the time. That’s not the world we live in.

So do what you can and then focus on having fun with your guests.

Folding, owner of John D. Folding & Associates, is a guide, consultant and collaborator for weddings and other special events. Reach him at (228) 2433271.

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Color trends 2015

See what’s fresh for spring Need ideas and inspiration for design pro ects around your home? With the right paint, you can transform everyday rooms into extraordinary spaces. Here are three of the hottest trends for 201 .

CELEBRATE THE CONCEPT OF MONOCHROMATIC COLORS

With a monochromatic color scheme using warm, cool, dark and light layers of the same hue throughout a floor plan, each room can have a very distinctive look making it almost imperceptible that there is a single hue at work. Employing various sheens creates another layer of texture in a space. edrooms featuring monochromatic color schemes, where tints and shades of a single color are used, can be ust the right approach when you want to create a sense of tran uility.

QUIET ON THE SET GROUND YOURSELF IN GREEN

Guilford Green, en amin Moore’s 201 color of the year, is a stunning silvery green that complements both modern and traditional styles in a seamless manner.

In the kitchen, pale green kitchen cabinets set against warm ivory kitchen walls, give the space an expansive feeling. The darker green of the ceiling balances out the visual weight while soft white trim uietly outlines the bank of windows.

The new opulence is romantic, minimal, luminous and pale. ush taupes and barely there pinks upstage with ust a whisper.

Information provided by Howard’s Paint and Decorating, Gulfport. They may be reached at (228) 864-5969.

40

March - April 2015

MAKE IT YOURSELF! Starbust mirror

By Lisa Robertson Marble Whether you’re crafty or ust want to replicate an item that is much too expensive to buy, you can likely find a MI pro ect to create ust what you have in mind. Trendy do-it-yourself pro ects are popping up everywhere. p-cycling or repurposing are popular ways to take old items that are no longer useful and turn them into something fabulous. The basic MI pro ects usually involve thrifty ways of taking inexpensive supplies and crafting them into a masterpiece. elow is a starburst mirror. These have been seen in popular retail d cor stores at prices ranging from 100 to 00. The starburst mirror below cost around 20 and takes about an hour to make not including drying time .

SUPPLIES NEEDED: • 2 packs of dried cedar shims (found at your local hardware store) $3.49 each • 8” to10” inch craft mirror (found at your local craft/hobby store) $4-6 • Small tube of wood glue (make sure it is mirror safe) $4 • 2” to 4” square pieces of scrap wood or crafting wood from craft store $4 • Saw tooth wall hanger $2 • Optional: glue gun • Optional: small amount of wood stain STEP 1

Tack the saw-tooth hanger to one side of the scrap wood then flip it over to use for step 2.

STEP 2

Lay out the cedar shims in a circular position about 2 inches in diameter at one end and glue them to the scrap wood. Continue overlaying them until you have filled most of the gaps by gluing them one by one to the shims underneath.

It’s optional to use a small amount of stain and brush on shims with paintbrush or staining cloth.

STEP 3

Glue your second piece of scrap wood to the center of the shims where they meet in the middle. Then glue your mirror on top of the scrap wood.

Lisa Robertson-Marble is an event planner/coordinator and designer. Reach her at (228) 731-0313. For more info: www.lisarobertsonmarble.com. www.gcwmultimedia.com

STEP 4

Gently place a heavy can or jug on top of the mirror to hold everything in place while it dries overnight.

You also can use driftwood as a nice coastal alternative to the cedar shims.

41

10 WAYS TO ENERGY-PROOF YOUR HOME At Mississippi Power, we know that saving energy is good for the environment and for your pocketbook. Small changes can add up to noticeable savings in your power bill each month. Try these tips below, and for more energy-saving ideas you can visit our website at mississippipower.com waystosave.

1

Set your thermostats to 6 degrees or the lowest comfortable setting.This can help you save to percent on your power bill. Also consider installing a programmable thermostat.

2 3

Properly insulate attic, walls and floors. We recommend - 0 for the attic, -1 for floors, and -1 for walls or local building codes, whichever is higher.

Have heating and cooling systems professionally serviced once a year to keep them running as efficiently as possible.

For each petal of the shamrock, This brings a wish your way Good health, good luck and happiness For today and every day.

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Rent A Maid 228.265.3416 42

Mary McCusker March - April 2015

se storm windows or double-paned replacement windows to greatly reduce heat loss in the winter. Storm windows are relatively inexpensive, and they also help decrease the outside noise that enters your home.

4

Properly seal ductwork. Gaps in oints and at plenums can cause your heating and bill to increase by as much as 0 and can allow air contaminants to enter the home.

Sealing with duct mastic is the best way to fix the problem permanently.

5

Have heating and cooling systems professionally serviced once a year to keep them running as efficiently as possible. If your system is older, consider installing a more efficient system.

6

Check refrigerators and free ers for significant energy loss. Make sure they are as full as possible and that the seals are in good condition. When buying a new appliance, look for the ENE G STA label.

7

Switch to high-efficiency ENE G STA compact fluorescent light bulbs. These bulbs last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they operate at cooler temperatures.

8 9 10

Change your filters once a month during the winter. If you have pleated filters, change them at least every three months.

Wrap electric water heaters with an insulated blanket. ead the installation instructions and warranty to make sure this doesn’t void the warranty.

Check caulk and weather stripping around your windows and doors. If the caulk is cracked or the weather-stripping is flat or peeling, replace the old material.

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Small Change. Big Difference.

Every small change you make to become more energy efficient can make a big difference to future generations. Save energy and help save our environment.

Service heating and cooling systems yearly.

Visit mississippipower.com/waystosave to learn about programs and resources that will help you save energy and money on your electric bill.

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43

European flair

A back-to-the-bone restoration

By Ellis Anderson | Photography by Ellis Anderson www.bslfourthward.com

The Mc aney’s story is a tale of two cities New rleans and ay St. ouis. ike generations of other families over the past two hundred years, this couple has found a happy balance by living between the two places and calling each of them home.

The primary home of Samantha and ob Mc aney is an elegant townhouse on oyal Street, smack dab in the middle of the rench uarter, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It’s not unusual to see a 10-piece marching band parade by the house, with second liners prancing behind. Hundreds of top-drawer entertainment, dining and shopping options are located within blocks of their front door. ust 6 miles away, their rambling three-story getaway house is tucked into ld Town’s Depot District on eller Street. It’s uxtaposed perfectly between the beach and the grounds of the historic depot.

There’s more activity in ay St. ouis than in most small towns fre uent festivals, the monthly Second Saturday Artwalk, and play openings at the ittle Theatre. ut for the most part, the Mc aneys neighborhood is peaceful and they often sit outside over morning coffee savoring the serene surroundings.

We have the best of both worlds, says ob. ob grew up in Columbus, Miss., so in early 200 , when the couple started shopping for a second house on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, it represented a homecoming of sorts. They stayed 10 nights in the ay Town Inn and spent the days house-hunting, ranging between cean 44

March - April 2015

Springs and iln. ay St. ouis won the Mc aneys over with its scenery, historic district and beachside lifestyle. The house they found on eller Street needed work, but according to Sam, it had great bones, since the original structure dated back to the mid-1 00s.

They purchased the house ust months before atrina savaged the Coast. The roof blew off, causing the third floor to collapse onto the second floor. The storm surge buckled the ground floors beyond redemption. The Mc aneys briefly considered abandoning the house, then rolled up their shirtsleeves and began the restoration, appreciating the one gift the storm had left behind when the ceilings collapsed, the original cypress beams were revealed. ocal carpenter designer Scott McDonald worked closely with the Mc aneys during the back-to-the-bone restoration. During construction, they discovered several previously unused or hidden spaces that became creative opportunities. What had been a rough hidden attic became a chic third floor living space. An awkwardly placed closet became a clever bar. This time around beams became room highlights instead of being covered.

Now an ld Town showpiece, the home’s wide front porch offers two doors into the house. Each leads into a comfortable, yet uni uely styled living area. The main entrance opens into a room with stuffed sofas, wood floors and an attention-grabbing chandelier that preens before a huge wall mirror. Interior designer Al awson ust up the street at awson Studios was enlisted to work his magic on this room

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45

and set the tone for the entire house. He pulled it off masterfully by mixing vintage floral upholstery and fine anti ues with punchy attention-grabbers like a fur throw and a emington bron e sculpture. ike the rest of the house, there’s a definite European flavor, yet there’s not a whiff of pretension anywhere.

An open brick fireplace divides the two living areas so both rooms can share the warmth. The second living room features a cream l-shaped sofa wrapping the wall. In one corner, a large screen T is mounted on an anti ue chest. oth sunlit rooms seem to call to people passing through Curl up here and read a good novel. r, you’ll never find a better place to watch a football game.

If there’s a single stylistic approach that has guided the Mc aneys, it might be summed up as anything goes as long as it’s useful, comfortable and tasteful. ob claims that all of the furnishings and ob ects in the house have some sort of sentimental value.

These are basically the things we have ac uired over a lifetime that have significant, personal meaning, he says. And we have long, boring stories about every one of them. ut most of the stories the Mc aneys have to tell aren’t boring by a long shot. Sam grew up in New ork City and New ersey as a member of the Gimbel’s Department Store family. y the time she met ob 2 years ago, she’d owned two hotels in Aspen, Colo., and had founded her own national company of children’s clothing and accessories taking it public on the stock exchange . Also a vocalist, she sometimes worked on commercials with the likes of arry Manilow and ette Midler. ob Mc aney has been in broadcasting his entire life his father built one of the first T stations in Mississippi and a network of radio stations that made up Mc aney broadcasting. ver the course of his career, he worked as station manager for three N C affiliate stations, including ichmond, ackson and New rleans WDS . His first cousin, Gerald Mc aney, spent his life on the other side of the camera, became a well-known actor and married actress Delta urke. The two actors owned the oyal Street house before ob and Sam purchased it.

Carriage drivers still point it out to tourists, something the Mc aneys take in good humor. ecently, I even heard someone here say that Delta urke lived in our eller Street house, says ob, laughing. How the rumors do fly.

Camp Mc aney is a six-bedroom house, which is a good thing.

46

March - April 2015

Most weekends, some if not all of the bedrooms are filled with incoming grandchildren or friends from New rleans spending the weekend. During football season, Saints and Mississippi State fans gather for the entire weekend to cook, explore the town and to watch the games.

Sam says the heart of every house they’ve owned is the kitchen, and the eller Street house is no exception. The entire back of the house on the ground floor is dedicated to cooking, eating and sociali ing. There are windows all around, a dining area that can accommodate do ens for a sit-down dinner, conversation nooks, bar stools and rench doors leading to a patio in back where there’s yet another table this Scott McDonald massive cypress creation is made with no nails, and can seat 2 .

The sleek kitchen features an island the si e of Australia and it’s not ust for show. Social hour at the Mc aneys is also cooking hour, when friends gather to cook with conversation. It’s part of our lifestyle, says ob. A few favorites that come out of the Mc aney kitchen are homemade candies, kum uat marmalade, lasagnas, canned pears and a host of other preserves. ur friends don’t want to go back, says Sam. They feel it the pace and the ambiance. They’re as captivated as we are.

Then Sam echoes the sentiments of thousands of other second homeowners, a long line of them stretching back hundreds of years.

We can relax and recharge our batteries here. We wake up happy and we go to sleep happy. We have a love affair with ay St. ouis.

ABOUT THE INTERIOR DESIGNER Al Lawson of Bay St. Louis owns the Lawson Studio, LLC, an interior design studio and furnishings showroom. He has worked as a commercial and residential interior designer for 25 years. More info: thelawsonstudio.com SEE YOUR PROJECT OR HOME FEATURED Contact the editor Dorothy Wilson at dorothywilson@ gcwmultimedia.com or associate editor Ray Ebberman at raysinteriordesign@msn.com.

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47

Spring time is show time!

Spring is right around the corner so home, garden and patio shows are here to help us brush away winter’s drab and plan, create and buy beautiful new environs.

28TH ANNUAL HOME SHOW The Home Show is the place to discover the latest trends and ideas from the home-building industry. It’s also a great opportunity to talk to professionals that can make your ideas come to life. Vendors include doors, windows, floors, fireplaces, insulation, lumber, home decor and more.

GULF COAST GARDEN & PATIO SHOW AND SPRING FEST AND GARDEN EXTRAVAGANZA Arts and crafts, Easter gifts, home décor, plants, garden accessories, landscape experts, women’s fashions, jewelry, gourmet food, bedding plants, trees, soil testing, garden equipment, tropical landscape professionals, gardening seminars and children’s activities.

March 6Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum Admission: children 15 and younger free Free parking

48

March - April 2015

March 21 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

March 22 oon-5 p.m.

Admission: Free March 21, 2015 10 a.m. 5 p.m.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum

19TH ANNUAL PARADE OF HOMES Builders from the Coast are prepared to show their best. This year’s parade route is lined with the latest in style and design, building products and special features. Sponsored by the Home Builders Association Mississippi Coast.

April 11, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

April 12, Noon - 5 p.m.

More info: (228) 896-7646

Home Builders Association Mississippi Coast Presents

28th Annual 27th Home Show .....................................

Saturday, March 21, 10am to 5pm Sunday, March 22, 12pm to 5pm MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center 28thAnnualHomeShowLogo.indd 1

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For more information about these events, please call HBAMC 228-896-7646

Saturday, April 11, 10am to 6pm Sunday, April 12, 12pm to 5pm Sponsored by: www.gcwmultimedia.com

49

Ready to create your own backyard paradise?

Is this the year you’ll turn your backyard into a getaway, your personal paradise right outside your rear door? With our busy lifestyles, limited vacation funds and increasing workloads at the office, a backyard experience ranks high on the list of most-wanted home improvements.

If you’re trying to decide whether the dollars invested in a backyard makeover will be recouped should you sell, you’re taking the right approach to planning. Do your research and add the features that will clinch the deal for a potential homebuyer. If you have several similar type homes in the same price range in your neighborhood, a beautifully planned, professionally upgraded backyard could give your house a definite edge over nearby for-sale homes.

SHOULD YOU HIRE A DESIGNER?

The Association of Professional andscape Design says hiring a professional landscape designer could be one of the smartest investment decisions you’ll ever make. Designers trained and ualified in the principles of garden design and horticulture can help their clients avoid the costly mistakes that can turn the dream of an outdoor haven into a landscape nightmare.

The association notes that Professional landscape designers are skilled practitioners of fundamental design concepts proportion, unity, balance, perspective, color, texture that can bring about a fully integrated design.

They have a comprehensive knowledge of plants so that you get the right plant that grows to the right si e for the right place in your garden.

They are skilled communicators and planners who work with contractors, vendors, local governments and others to complete successful pro ects.

WHICH QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK? If you want to hire a landscape architect to help shape and broaden your vision, start with asking the right uestions. Here are some suggested uestions from the National Gardening Association When you interview your potential candidates, be sure they communicate well and are receptive to your ideas, goals, and pro ect schedule.

Discuss their previous pro ect experience, how it relates to your pro ect, and ask to see examples of previous work. eview and or define the specific services for your pro ect from initial design through construction phase services. Will they be providing the services or will some of the services be sub-contracted?

Discuss and determine the fee structure for the professional services.

Ask for a fee schedule and an estimated 50

March - April 2015

fee to complete the entire pro ect.

Call and check their references. e sure to ask if they previously met their schedules and if the pro ect developed within budget. Did the pro ect meet the clients concerns and goals? Would they hire them again? erify their licensure status. Anyone who advertises or uses the title landscape architect must be licensed by the state and able to perform their professional services, as defined under law. nce you’ve set a budget and have a plan, you can decide how much you feel you can tackle successfully and how much you need to contract out.

En oy the experience and remember you’re creating a mini-vacation your family and friends can en oy for years to come.

INCLUDING A POOL?

A beautiful blue sparkling pool may be at the centerpiece of your backyard getaway dream. In choosing a pool builder, be sure to Make sure the builder is licensed and bonded.

Check installer’s levels and kind of insurance in case your property is harmed during installation. ead warranties very carefully, including the fine print. now what is and isn’t covered. now that pool installations re uire building permits and make sure your builder obtains one.

Get referrals, check references and check out online reviews.

Get at least two to three estimates to compare services and reasonable pricing. nderstand that your rights are before you pay a down payment or sign a contract. If you are not satisfied with the uality of work or the builder is not maintaining the agreed-upon schedule, know what recourse you have.

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Stephen Carlson is the owner operator of Southern Kutters LLC. Stephen has lived in Gulfport with his family, Cherie (wife) and Nicholas (son) since 1999. Stephen is retired after serving 20+ years in the Air Force Reserve. Southern Kutters also offers services such as light construction and interior remodel work. Southern Kutters offers the highest standards of work and takes great pride in each job.

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Florence Gardens adds school to amenities Those shopping for a new home in a planned neighborhood have a new reason to check out Gulfport’s lorence Gardens. The community recently held a groundbreaking for Hope Academy, which will provide a permanent home for the previous school blown away by Hurricane atrina.

Hope, the only independent, nondenominational school for prethrough 12th grades on the Coast, is ust steps away from homes in lorence Gardens. The 6 million campus is scheduled to open in anuary 2016. It is being constructed on 16 acres and will provide instruction in music, art, physical education, technology and foreign languages. The staff-to-student ratio is one to four and the academy will employ 0 percent of the teaching staff of the former Westminster Academy.

Students, wearing crisp blue-and-white uniforms and yellow pintsi ed hard hats, waited in anticipation as lorence Garden, city of Gulfport and Hope Academy speakers lauded the new school. Soon the students would walk on freshly turned earth and pick up special blue shovels in unison as cameras rolled capturing the moment.

Hope Academy Principal im aulston, speaking to the dignitaries, lorence Garden residents, media and students, shared excitedly about the school’s mission and the significance of the occasion. We talk a lot about hope at Hope Academy. In fact, our theme for this year and hopefully for years to come is Hope for the uture at Hope Academy.’ Today, we are witnessing hope for the future as we watch this new building come alive. ur vision is for Hope Academy to be known as one of the finest private schools not only on the Gulf Coast but also anywhere in the state of Mississippi. We continuously teach 54

March - April 2015

our students what it means to have hope for the future; to work hard, be courageous, to persevere and to show kindness at all times. Hope Academy’s new school site will provide students endless opportunities to experience learning at its best as we teach them the importance of caring for others as well as the world around them. aulston said the mission of Hope Academy is to inspire and prepare all students to reali e their full potential as they develop a passion for lifelong learning in a happy, safe and nurturing academic environment.

We are committed to creating a culture where students and their families feel safe, where academic expectations are high, and where everyone accepts responsibility for student learning, she continued.

The speeches finally over, the students walked without any coaxing to grab their shovels. Standing in a single line facing the guests, the students slipped their shovels into the pre-turned soil at the teachers’ command. Then they lifted the dirt, waiting as cameras clicked. This was their first interaction with their new school.

Hope Academy was vision no more, but fresh reality, hope reali ed.

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55

Plan an outdoor kitchen As warmer weather approaches, there is never a better time to start thinking about how to incorporate a stellar outdoor living area into your home. ong gone are the days when the home chef would step outside to grill and then bring dinner back inside for family or guests. ong gone are the days when Memorial Day, ourth of uly and abor Day are the best times to host a backyard get together.

Now, it’s all about savoring the outdoors any day of the week, all from a multi-station, versatile kitchen set against a backdrop of nature’s best.

That’s the great thing about grilling. ou don’t need a holiday or special event to host a fabulous gathering. Whether it’s four, 2 or many more, outdoor living spaces create an atmosphere for the perfect blend of food, fun and fellowship.

Why? ecause grilling is America’s favorite pastime. According to a 201 survey conducted by Hearth, Patio arbecue Association, this culinary hobby isn’t going away any time soon 0 percent of all .S. households own a grill or smoker percent of grill owners used their grill in the past year Nearly 1 million new grills were shipped in 201 60 percent of grillers report using their grills year-round n the Mississippi Gulf Coast, where we are blessed with wonderful grilling weather almost year-round, outdoor kitchens are very popular and have become a highly re uested feature in new home building plans. They also are a very popular addition to existing homes.

Now, before you get overwhelmed with thoughts of how in the world could I transform my backyard to look like some kind of awesomeness seen on HGT , never fear, Compton Son Appliance and utdoor iving Center is here.

This three-generation company based in Gulfport has more than 0 years of experience in kitchen design expertise. Compton’s speciali es in custom outdoor kitchen installation.

56

March - April 2015

In years past, we entertained in our kitchen and indoor living space, but as a culture, we have moved outside, says ill Compton, marketing director for Compton Son Appliance and utdoor iving Center. We used to have small patios and smalls grills. Now, we go all out’ in the outdoors. utside is the new living area Compton says the latest trends go beyond the charcoal and gas grill to include a hibachi grill, wok station, wood-fired pi a oven, versa burner for seafood boils, and dual kegerators for specialty beers.

Countertops with drawer storage, full sinks, refrigerators, drink coolers and lighting are ust a handful of custom features offered.

ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS When considering the addition of an outdoor kitchen, start with selecting which type of grill will best suit your needs. Compton recommends asking these questions to help get the process started: What is the warranty and what does it cover?

What material is the grill made of? The quality of steel and or ceramic is important because of the salty air on the Gulf Coast.

What type of burner does the grill have: stainless, cast iron or titanium?

What type of grill do you want gas or charcoal or do you want a smoker?

How many people are you cooking for on a regular basis?

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57

How to select a Realtor

By Lynn Wade

Purchasing or selling real estate is most likely the largest financial transaction in most people’s lifetime. In hiring a real-estate agent, there are a few suggestions that are more important than any others to consider in making the experience successful for all parties involved.

FIND A REALTOR

irst and foremost, it is important to select a ealtor, not ust a licensed real estate agent. ealtors are members of the National Association of ealtors and pledge to follow a code of ethics that establishes levels of conduct that are higher than ordinary business practices or those re uired by law.

SEEK FULL-TIME REPRESENTATIVE

Secondly, find a ealtor who is full time in the business. A full-time agent is more e uipped with the knowledge to better service clients, whether in purchasing or selling properties. There also will be a better sense of dedication and accountability from a ealtor who has chosen to make real estate a career.

CHECK FOR EXPERIENCE

Also, choose a ealtor is has proven knowledge and expertise. our ealtor should be knowledgeable about the local market, pricing, availability and lending.

Marketing, negotiating and general loan regulations are ust a few aspects of purchasing and selling that can vary dramatically between price ranges and locations.

The ealtor can make the experience more en oyable and ensure it runs smoothly.

REPUTATION IS IMPORTANT

astly, choose a company with a good reputation.

A strong name and or reputation can go a long way in gaining favor in the local market. The company’s strength in leadership, integrity, and even longevity are important considerations in choosing someone to help you pursue your real estate dream.

GET REFERRALS

e sure to ask friends and family members for referrals of ealtors they would recommend and interview the potential ealtor to ensure you are comfortable with his or her approach to buying and selling real estate.

Wade, GRI, CRL, ABR, is a preview specialist and broker associate with Coldwell Banker Alfonso.

Reach her at (228) 297-9911.

58

March - April 2015

4000 Breezy Hill Ln Warm & inviting traditional home with plenty of space for all to enjoy. Features formal LR, formal DR, family room & brick FP leading into a cook's kitchen w/large center island. Master includes sep. tub/shower w/skylight, dbl sinks & more. Sunroom, privacy fence. NO FLOODING! Call to see it today! $220,000

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4317 Orchard - EVEN BETTER NEW PRICE! $27 a sq.ft!!

Nice, open living area. Features spacious kitchen w/plenty of cabinets, LR, DR, separate study, & metal blinds. Home also features huge backyard on over 1/2 acre in the city. SELLER VERY MOTIVATED! WILL ENTERTAIN ALL OFFERS!! AS IS!! $49,900

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LOTS FOR SALE

9017 Seacliff Ave. $49,000. Ocean Springs, MLS #268773 Lot 86 Rue Beaux Chenes $19,500. Ocean Springs, MLS #268771 Lot 87 Rue Beaux Chenes $19,500. Ocean Springs, MLS #268772 399 Southeast Ave. $18,000. Gulfport, MLS #268774

Tina M. Warren

ABR, Realtor 2003 Bienville Blvd Ocean Springs, MS 228-875-1272 - office 228-238-1910 - cell tina.warren@coldwellbanker.com - email www.tinamwarren.com

DEEP WATER

Gautier • Need lots of bed rooms? How about 5?

Large open plan and a river view. Must see to appreciate. $269,900

GULF VIEW

Ocean Springs • 2800 sq ft on Deep water with pier/ bulkhead... absolutely gorgeous! Very private area in Gulf Island National Seashore $749,000

RIVER VIEW

Ocean Springs • Condo living at its best.

All upgrades in this 2/2.5 corner unit.

Gulf view, large oaks and private pier. $224,900

Ocean Springs • Downtown living at it best! 2778 sq ft plus 467 sq ft additional living space above garage, unbelievable outdoor living for entertaining. $587,500 Ocean Springs • Fabulous neighborhood, close to everything 4/5 with outdoor kitchen and other entertain amenities. This is a beauty. $649,000

St. Martin • Absolutely precious. Move in ready with workshop and split plan. 4/2 1824 sf and is USDA approved for quailified buyers.

Let’s talk. $157,900

346 Main Street - Prime, sought after location in old towne Bay St. Louis.Walk to shopping, restaurants, school, church, and nightlife.

This custom 1940’s cottage is on a large fenced in lot.Beaming with fabulous details in windows, ceilings and throughout the home.

Two wood burning fireplaces. Add. building in back. $389,000 112 2nd St - Situated in the heart of Bay St. Louis.

Buttercup Cafe currently running as a flourishing restaurant. Everything stays. Commercial property just off Main Street and two blocks from marina. $325,000

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Vancleave • What a FIND!! 3 cabins with deep river dock, gated access, ponds, trails… All of nature’s finest. Could be your own personal retreat. $699,000

Pascagoula • Perfectly redone with character and beauty.

Large family room and back yard. 3/2 This charmer is better than new. $77,000

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228-297-9911 - cell Lynn.wade@coldwellbanker.com 59

2198 Floyd - NEW HVAC! e oo o e is in such a great location. Beautiful fenced back yard with gorgeous oak tree. Close to shopping and dining. It has everything you need! $86,000. Call Judy.

413 Porter - Historic home. In addition to house there is a detached 450 sq ft carriage house.Original details: HARDWOOD FLOORS, chandelier.

Quality construction, built in 1927, plaster walls/ o oo o ce ce Plantation shutters, new wiring, updated kitchen w/ stainless & granite. $299,000. Call Judy.

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375 Belvedere - Beautiful small home.Updated Bath and Kitchen include granite, custom tile work, updated electrical.

Large fenced back yard with fruit tree.Covered parking.Large windows let the sun shine in!Located behind new Neighborhood Walmart, close to everything! $78,000. Call Judy.

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185 St. Jude #4 St - What a great place for a home away or for someone who wants a carefree life of no maintenance. Master downstairs along w/ great living area. End unit w/ a view of side Property. Lots of windows for natural light.

Working at Keesler - just minutes from main gate. Enjoy the sun set-easy walk to Beach. $258,000. Call Sarah.

167 Bilmarsan Dr Cottage Style home, 2 blocks from beach.

Home has been renovated with Hardy Board exterior, e oof oo oo & ceramic tile. New windows w/ central heat & air. Great home for those that love an older home. $105,000. Call Sarah.

Call Sarah 228-861-6997 for more info on these wonderful listings!

60

March - April 2015

REALTOR®

14309 Goff St - New Metal Roof - Back up Generator for the entire house - Non-Flood Zone!!!

Very nice spacious 3 bdrm, 2 bath home. Great for a growing family. Double carport for parking and covered patio for barbecues. It has a large fenced yard and located on a quiet street. Purchaser to verify all info. $209,000. Call Lydia.

Call Lydia 228-861-5328 for more info on this fantastic listing!

882 Hana Pl - WOW! Price reduced on this updated, move-in ready/like new, culdesac home!

Gorgeous Granite in large eat- in Kitchen, Solid Maple Cabinets, New Wood Laminate Flooring, New Windows in Florida Room, Thermopane High Impact Windows, Storage/Workshop w/Electricity, Custom Shutters, Gorgeous Yard! $168,000

Continuing the tradition of making a house a home!

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picolo qtr 880 Brentwood Dr - Inviting solid home in desireable neighborhood near all the coast has to offer! Open plan with sunroom, and garden/pet room off of kitchen. Waiting for new family to come home to! Near restaurants, shopping, I-110/I10 for easy access! Don’t miss this opportunity! No Katrina flood here! $159,900

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2600 Tampica - New Price Reduction on home that is Move-In ready for the first time homebuyer or Retiree! Nice sized fenced backyard in desirable neighborhood! All new vinyl siding in 2013! Most all bedroom furnishings, kitchen table, living room furnishings, washer/dryer to convey in sale of home to start out! $94,900

Maria A. Pelaez-Picolo

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Think insurance before choosing home

By Kathy Rogers ooking to purchase a new home? Congratulations As you go over your long list of things to take into consideration when deciding if this home could really be your dream home, insurance cost should be high on your list. Paying for insurance will go on year after year, long after you have paid for your home. Here are a few things to keep in mind, from an insurance cost perspective, as you search for the perfect home for you and your family.

LOCATION

Where is the home located? Is it close to the Gulf of Mexico or a river? Is it in a flood one? Is it inside or outside of the city limits? What is the fire-protection class?

If your home is less than two miles from the Gulf of Mexico, you may need to purchase wind insurance separately from your ha ard policy, which normally makes the premium higher. ind out if the home is in a flood one and if it is above or below the base flood elevation. lood insurance premiums are on the rise, and if the home is in a special flood ha ard area and at or below the base flood elevation, you could be in for a very unpleasant surprise when purchasing flood insurance.

The fire-protection class has a lot to do with insurance cost. It is an indicator of the response time and effectiveness of the responding fire department should your home catch on fire. The lower the fire protection class, the lower the insurance premium.

CONSTRUCTION

What about the construction of the home? Do you know how many

s uare feet are heated and cooled and what is the s uare feet of each porch, garage, deck or carport? Is it frame with vinyl siding or brick veneer? How about solid masonry? What is the roof shape? Is it hip or gable? Is it elevated or on a slab on grade? A solid masonry home with a hip roof will cost the least to insure.

YEAR BUILT

When was the home built? If it is an older home, has it been updated?

When was it updated and what exactly what was updated? Are there records to prove the updates? Typically, the newer the home, the lower the insurance cost.

SWIMMING POOL

Does the home have a swimming pool? Is it above ground or below?

Does it have a diving board or a slide? Is the pool totally fenced in?

Do you plan to have pets? What breed and how many? Do you plan to purchase a trampoline? Does the property have a pond or border on a lake or river?

All these can and do affect your insurance cost. When looking at homes, ask your ealtor the uestions I have outlined above. The ealtor should have the answers or be able to find them out for you.

Consult your local insurance agent when you have narrowed your selection down to a couple of choices. The agent can give you an indication about which home will cost the least to insure.

Above all, educate yourself. Purchasing a home is a large investment.

A wise buyer includes all the potential cost of home ownership before making a final decision.

Rogers is vice president of Rogers Insurance, Gulfport. She has 18 years of experience in the insurance business. Reach her at (228) 832-9313 or krogers@rogersinsurance.net.

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QUICK SEARCH HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER

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March - April 2015

White Bungalow 1 0 Government St. Ocean Springs, MS 56 22 215-000 Merchiston Hall 2 00 Pass Road Biloxi, MS 5 1 22 5-265 INSURANCE Rogers Insurance 15 2 O’ eal Road Gulfport, MS 50 22 2- 1

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Ocean Springs, MS 56 22 5-12 2

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FAITH

Where grace and faith abound

Child teaches her family love and sacrifice in life — and death

O

By Dana Sleger “I Still Would Have Chosen You”

By Terri Banish

If before you were born, I could have gone to heaven and saw all the beautiful souls, I still would have chosen you.

If God had told me, “This one will one day need extra care and needs,” I still would have chosen you.

If He had told me, “This soul will make your heart bleed,” I still would have chosen you.

If He had told me, “This soul will make you question the depth of your faith,” I still would have chosen you.

If He had told me, “This soul will make tears flow from your eyes that could fill a river,” I still would have chosen you.

If He had told me, “This soul may one day make you witness overbearing suffering,” I still would have chosen you.

If He had told me, “All that you know to be normal will drastically change,” I still would have chosen you.

Of course, even though I would have chosen you, I know it was God who chose me for you.

Madison and her mom, Andrea Saucier 66

March - April 2015

n Jan. 14, Nick and Andrea Saucier of Saucier did the hardest thing they’ve ever had to do: Say goodbye to their 7-year-old daughter, Madison Katherine, for the last time. After being diagnosed at birth with Ohtahara Syndrome, a seizure disorder, her tired body was now at peace, but the grieving process was only beginning for her parents, who gave a remarkable quality of life to their dear girl despite her severe limitations.

Although Nick and Andrea knew they wouldn’t be emotionally ready to speak at their daughter’s service, there were several things they wanted done to celebrate her short, but impactful life. In addition to beautiful songs and touching memories shared, there was a moving poem, “I Still Would Have Chosen You,” read that perfectly captured the hearts of two people who were blessed to call Madison their daughter. She was a little girl who forever redefined the meaning of unconditional love in the most precious way possible.

The Sauciers’ story is about faith — faith of two people who have been tested to the limit, and yet maintain an anchored belief that with God, all things are possible.

This type of faith can’t be learned overnight and it’s not something that can be acquired through a classroom setting. It’s developed by how one responds to life’s battles after having the wind knocked out of dreams while still finding the courage to embrace the power of hope and face another day girded with heaven-sent strength.

“Madison is not here anymore, but she’s still touching lives,” says Andrea, 29. “She wasn’t a rock star or a country singer, but she was a loving little girl. I would never pass up the chance to share her story with someone who might need to hear it.”

When Nick and Andrea were married in 2005, the young couple had grand dreams for their lives, and the wish for children was a definite part of future plans. Three months into their marriage, they were overjoyed when Andrea became pregnant, but that joy faded when she miscarried in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Not only did they lose their child, but the storm took their home during that season.

By April of the following year, another baby was on the way and the pregnancy couldn’t have been better. Constant movement sent a strong signal that all was well, especially when the kicking grew more intense every time Nick prayed or would talk to his soon-to-be daughter.

The couple, anxiously anticipating Madison’s birth, endured a very long labor process. There was an unusual silence that filled the room when Madison was born on Jan. 26, 2007. Judging by the response from the medical

team and the immediate rush to the neonatal intensive care unit, questions and fears enveloped the new parents.

“Three hours later, they brought her back in for us to see her and hold her,” says Nick, 29. “You could tell there was something wrong.

She wasn’t moving around like a normal baby would.”

Madison’s umbilical cord was double-knotted and she wasn’t breathing when she was born. To go from an overactive, healthy pregnancy to a hushed eeriness in the delivery room, it could only be assumed something went terribly wrong during labor. After a five-day run of multiple tests, Madison was moved to the niversity of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Mobile, where they specialize in pediatric neurology.

The first three years of Madison’s life were in-and-out of the hospital and filled with many touch-and-go moments. When the Sauciers took Madison home for the first time, they knew the constant care would be demanding for a little girl who experienced seizures daily, had a feeding tube and a trach, and required a ventilator to sleep.

When she was first born, we always prayed and prayed for her healing, but we came to a point where we prayed she would be as healthy as she could be with what she had,” says Andrea, Madison’s primary caretaker. “I still believe in miracles because she was a miracle from day one. When she was diagnosed with Ohtahara Syndrome, we were told she would only live a week, but she lived almost eight years.”

A diagnosis of this magnitude is a scary journey for any parent to walk, but through it all, Nick and Andrea were locked side by side with a tight hold on their faith to push through the hard times and savor the happy times.

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A lot transpired since Madison’s birth. The couple welcomed MacKenzie in 2009, a healthy baby girl born at 31 weeks. Andrea experienced an extremely difficult pregnancy with Andrea’s appendix nearly bursting, a colon rupture, and a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. During this time, Madison also inspired Nick to pursue EMT training, which was then followed by a rigorous four years of school to be a nurse — all while helping Andrea daily with their daughter’s special needs.

As the Sauciers recollect all they have been through over the years, they could not be more appreciative of the endless support they have received from family, friends and medical staff.

There’s also a place the Sauciers are very grateful for: the Ronald McDonald House in Mobile that serves as a home-away-fromhome for families to stay near their hospitalized children for little or no cost.

When Nick talks about the recent passing of his daughter, he twists his wedding ring around his finger over and over again a gesture of profound thanks for a life partner with steadfast faith, impressive fortitude and unconditional love.

“Andrea means everything to me,” Nick says. “I’m very lucky to have her, and I couldn’t have asked for a better wife and a better mother for Madison and MacKenzie.”

Andrea reciprocates his feelings: “He’s been my rock,” she says. “Any time I needed to be picked up, he was there to tell me ‘You can do this.’ He’s been such a great dad to both of the girls and even does hair and nails better than I could! He’s just perfect and God sent him to me.”

Through thick and thin, Nick and Andrea are still standing strong. Although they dearly miss their extraordinary daughter and her trademark big blue eyes, they remember the good times and hold on to God’s sufficient grace for the days ahead.

“Madison was perfect to us and surely she knew how much we loved her,” Andrea says. “She never spoke a word, but has taught us more than any teacher ever could. She couldn’t walk and her body couldn’t do what ours could, but she still managed to smile.”

Saucier family at Disney

FROM THE WRITER …

Dana Sleger Associate editor

68

At the time I conducted this interview, sweet Madison had only been gone a little more than a week. Prior to initially meeting Nick and ndrea aucier, I did some research to find out more about this couple who just lost their 7-year-old daughter, and yet were so willing to share her story while still freshly reeling from a pain no loving parent ever wants to experience.

When I visited Andrea’s Facebook page, it was evident a strong faith in God is the cornerstone of the Saucier family, but even the strongest faith can be tested when unexpected heartache comes, especially through the loss of a child. However, with this family, that just wasn’t the case.

As we sat around the dining room table for our interview, I was awestruck by the grounded peace that surrounded this couple. In the midst of the pain from losing their firstborn, there was a resounding, comforting joy that

March - April 2015

trumped dark emotions grief may bring.

Please don’t misunderstand me; they deeply grieve for their daughter and would give anything to kiss that tender face again, but there is something very special about this family.

Nick and Andrea carry a beautiful light that genuinel reflects an unsha eable, unwavering faith.

For them, looking through the lens of eternal life o ers a sustaining hope the will one da be reunited with Madison. In the meantime, they stand united with eyes locked on their savior, Jesus, and approach this new family-ofthree life one day at a time.

To Nick, Andrea and MacKenzie, may you experience a divine, authentic outpouring of love during this time of healing in unparalleled ways through your faith, family, friends, church and community. To Madison, may your now endless smile radiate as you dance with angels in the greatest playground you’ve ever known.

An

everyday definition of grace

By Thomas Randolph Robbins

O

ne Sunday after morning church service, I picked up our then 2-year-old grandson, Josiah, from children’s class. His dad and mom were serving on a team that morning.

As we walked out of his classroom, I saw a couple of women rolling a white table down the hallway. “May we help you?” I asked. “Yes, you can… thank you!” Mrs. Judith responded. I took the table as they released it. I looked at Josiah and asked, “Do you want to help Papa roll the table?” He was all excited, “Yes!” I began to roll the table and Josiah was right there. As we rolled that table, I bragged on him and affirmed him as we went. We rolled the table into the sanctuary and set it up. I continued to brag on Josiah, celebrating with him on the great job we had done together. We gave each other a high-five.

The Lord communicated to me, “Randy, Josiah did not roll the table. … Papa rolled the table.” I acknowledged and kind of nodded within myself, “Ok.” The Lord continued with the communication. “That’s the way it is with us … in all the things you are trying to do, all the projects you’re working on, with all the strain and pressure, etc., you are not rolling the table.

Abba is rolling the table.” I was actually awed and encouraged. “Alright,” I whispered. I smiled and felt a wave of new inspiration.

As I later reflected on all this and shared it with my wife, she said, es, and He just wants you to enjoy fellowshipping with him, joining in with Him and helping Him in what He’s doing.”

It was almost as if the Lord was saying, “Don’t be involved in these things and be asking me to join you in the battle/the work. I’m already there, doing my work. Join me in my work. Don’t ask me to join you; remember, the battle/the work is the Lord’s.” And again, “I am the Senior Partner, you are the junior partner.”

Yes, Abba is rolling the table!

As I have continued to reflect on this life-impacting time with the Lord, several scriptures have come to mind: John 15:5b “… without Me, you can do nothing.”

Matthew 11:30: “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

2 Corinthians 12: : My grace is su cient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

1 Corinthians 15:10: “by the grace of God I am what I am … I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.”

Hebrews 13:5b: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

In all times, in all situations, His grace is necessary and sufficient.

“For by grace through faith … .” is our foundational principle in all of life.

SHARE YOUR FAITH Have an uplifting short story that will encourage others in their faith?

E-mail it to GCW’s editor at dorothywilson@gcwmultimedia.com. www.gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

Robbins with grandson Josiah

69

10 minutes with Alice Graham Back Bay Mission recently announced the Rev. Alice Graham, Ph.D., as its new executive director. Gulf Coast Woman asked her to share about her new role.

GCW: TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW JOB. GRAHAM: The executive director position at Back Bay Mission

in some ways is similar to my work at Interfaith Partnerships. I am responsible for overseeing the implementation of the organization’s mission. However, there are some important differences. Back Bay Mission, unlike Interfaith Partnerships, provides direct services for members of the homeless community, as well as for persons seeking affordable housing and vulnerable residents needing home. BBM provides active outreach to the homeless, including homeless veterans by providing access to resources through the Micah Day Center and Homeport Initiative. The Home At Last program provides permanent supportive housing for the general population and our Food Pantry offers food and nutrition information. This position allows me to be involved with a team of people committed to responding to the emergency needs of coastal residents as well as creating innovative solutions that move residents from surviving to thriving.

GCW: WHAT ARE YOUR KEY INITIATIVES FOR 2015?

GRAHAM: Strengthening the range of wraparound support services

available to homeless residents ready to move out of homelessness as well as those precariously housed.

Creating a community health worker resource that would provide healthy life style education which supports access to and utilization of preventive health care options.

Provide Bridges Out of Poverty workshops for low-income residents in order to support and collaborate in their efforts to move out of poverty.

GCW: HOW DOES THIS POSITION FIT YOUR LIFE GOALS? WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE POSITION? GRAHAM: I was raised by a single mother in inner-city Chicago. She

taught my two brothers and I that no matter how little we had, we were obligated by God to share our resources with others. Marian Wright Edelman’s statement that, “charity is the rent we pay for the air that we breathe” has always resonated with me. This sacred obligation has stayed with me throughout my professional life and been implemented in response to the needs where I could make a difference in whatever community I was living. In 2006, I brought seven advanced level Hood Theological Seminary pastoral care students to Mississippi to learn what ministry was like in the midst of a communal disaster. This experience opened the door for a life-changing event for me. Coming to Mississippi in 2009 was in response to feeling deeply called to contribute my skills and experience to improving quality of life for vulnerable populations recovering from Hurricane Katrina.

This position allows me an opportunity to facilitate the delivery of services that hold the potential for empowering residents in such way that vulnerable residents create sustainable communities.

GCW: WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT NEEDS OF YOUR ORGANIZATION? HOW CAN OTHERS GET INVOLVED? GRAHAM: Local volunteers are essential for the implementation of

the mission to meet the urgent needs of those suffering from poverty and to support the development of creative solutions that transforms lives. Volunteers who can offer consistent reliable support who have computer skills, nutritional training, life skills coaching, and workforce development skills can provide valuable support for staff initiatives.

As with all non-profits funding is an ongoing need. We invite those interested in making a financial contribution to visit our campus or go to our website to learn more about our programs and services. In-kind donations are also useful and our website has a wish list for each of our program areas.

GCW: WHAT WILL YOUR APPROACH BE TO BRINGING CHANGE TO THE ORGANIZATION? GRAHAM: I am looking to build on the wonderful 92-year history of

Back Bay Mission. This is a long history of ministry that has produced organizations that have become separate helping agencies in response to the needs of vulnerable communities (Loaves and Fishes, Gulf Coast Women’s Center, Mississippi Interfaith Disaster Task Force, and Coastal Family Health Center). The BBM staffs’ shared goal is to move vulnerable communities to thriving communities in partnership/ collaboration with those we serve.

MORE ABOUT GRAHAM

A native Chicagoan, Dr. Graham has lived and worked in Northern Virginia, North Carolina and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Dr. Graham holds a bachelor of arts degree from Spelman College, a master of divinity degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from Northwestern University. he is a certi e ello o the American Association of Pastoral Counselors. She is ordained in the American Baptist Churches, USA.

ABOUT BACK BAY MISSION Back Bay Mission, a community ministry of the United Church of Christ, serves the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the wider church community by faithful witness for social justice and compassionate service to the poor and marginalized.

1012 Division St. Biloxi, Ms. 39530 (228) 432-0301 www.thebackbaymission.org

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March - April 2015

HEALTH

Treat yourself like you would treat your daughter

By Dr. Michele Q. Pisciotta

I wanted to share some tips for a healthy lifestyle for this issue. The tidbits that kept coming to mind are all about healthy mental health so, here goes …

REMEMBER

Remember what? Well at a particularly low point in my life, while I was paying for excellent mental-health care, I was told to try and develop “double vision.” As we discussed this concept, I understood its value and have been able to use it effectively over the years.

Has anyone else ever felt “stuck” in a negative set of circumstances and felt hopeless? Well in those gray and cloudy times, remember the good things of the past. Remember the God moments, the perfect moments in life that you cannot recreate because they happen so spontaneously that you catch yourself carefree. I know in my life it feels like my childhood and adolescence belonged to some other girl.

It’s like a dream in a way. But there are snippets that I remember that make me smile inside no matter how bad my present may feel.

An example, I will never forget a sunrise that I shared with my father

while my family was driving from New Orleans to Vail, Colo., for a ski trip. We were coming over a particularly narrow pass in the mountains of New Mexico and he and I were the only ones awake in the van. It was breathtaking.

As I watched my dad die last year, I held that memory so close that it is almost scary to share it now. I will forever be grateful for that God moment. It brings me my favorite emotion — smile through tears. When you develop a mental double vision, it enables you to realize that with time your circumstances will evolve and another sunrise is in your future.

SLOW DOWN

Time passes no matter what we do and no matter how much we accomplish. I have been very presumptuous in my life. I have always felt that I will live to be old. Very old. Now that I am 45, I am not so sure.

As I see my children maturing and my older loved ones passing on I am much more jealous of my time. I am more apt to tell someone no. I am more likely to let things wait for tomorrow. I really try not to “sweat SEE HEALTH ON PAGE 73

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72Serving March - April 2015

Build a

LIFETIME of wellness

By Joanne Levanway

Bigger Store...

More Healthy “We canSe dole anything we!!! want to do if we stick to it long ctions

enough,” Helen Keller said. Well, it’s March and I am wondering how everyone is doing with the New Year’s resolutions they made.

What happened to ones you made from last year? Did you make ones that were unrealistic or unobtainable, or too many that left you feeling overwhelmed when you fell short? If you have fallen short, why not adopt a different mindset about becoming healthier. Set the course and lay the groundwork for building a lifetime of wellness. In order to do that, let’s look at what the word “wellness” means?

We continually hear this buzzword. We talk about it, but do we really have an idea of what it is? Definitions I found was a state of well-being,” “satisfaction with one’s present condition,” “quality of life,” “a sense of well-being,” and “a state of health.” What image do you have for yourself when you hear the word wellness? To me, wellness is an ongoing process where you are continually learning how to make healthy choices that help build a lifetime of wellness.

It’s a process that takes time because there is always room for improvement where our health is concerned, and there are many healthy choices to consider when embarking on a path to wellness.

The choices you make are the most important factor in determining your overall health and the lifestyle you lead. Every day you make choices that will either improve your health or harm it, and you don’t always make the right choices. In order to make healthy choices, you need to be educated about your health and set up an environment that supports those positive healthy choices.

All it takes is one small change, and then another, then another, and before you know it big results. It’s pretty simple. Little things matter because they add up over time.

Define what your definition of wellness is. ocus on a few health-related issues that are your biggest concern and start there. My father once told me, when taking on a big project or undertaking it’s like eating an elephant. Take one bite at a time.

Remember, it isn’t about conquering your lifetime of wellness and health all at once. Take it one day at a time, one bite at a time, one small change at a time. Good luck on your journey to health and wellness, and remember, “We can do anything if we stick to it long enough.”

Joanne Levanway is a dietitian and wellness coach. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Reach her at RightDirections@att.net.

After the death of a loved one Tr ing to find a ‘NEW NORMAL’

By Thomas Randolph Robbins “What now? What do I do now? Life will never be the same …”

Thoughts and feelings such as these are not uncommon following the loss of a loved one. Life as you know it will truly never be the same.

For some of us, grief and mourning will be mixed with relief and blessing, because our loved one was elderly and had gone through a process of decline; it was a long, challenging journey. It’s always sad to have to say that final good-bye to a loved one, but, it was time for him her to go; it was time for us to let him/her go. It was time.

For others of us, this reality of loss comes crashing in like a tidal wave, like an unwelcome intruder, destroying everything of our normal in its path. Grief and mourning come upon us like a flood, mixed with all kinds of emotions, all kinds of thoughts and feelings. In this storm, we’re trying to catch our breath, get our bearings, and hang on for dear life.

Our God, our faith, our family, our friends — all are key elements in how we perceive and respond to this sad, unavoidable reality of life.

What we know as our “normal” is no longer normal.

Experts tell us that we have to find a new normal. We have to learn to live our life without our loved one. Not that we forget them. Not that we ever minimize what they mean to us, nor how much we love them … just that we’ve got to learn to build and live life without them.

Will the pain ever go away? Probably not completely; it just will not remain that overwhelming, seemingly uncontrollable pain that we must experience and endure in the beginning. We also will probably discover that it comes at us in differing and unpredictable waves of emotional intensity and can be triggered by anything that reminds us of our loved one. This is not strange, nor is it normally a sign that something is wrong with us. This is part of the “new normal.”

Remember: The wound caused by the loss can be healed. The reality of the loss will always remain. If someone undergoes an amputation, the wound where the amputation took place can heal, but the amputated part will always be amputated. That “someone” must learn to build and live life without that amputated part.

Be encouraged; you are not alone. God loves you, and He wants to help, if you want Him to be involved. Hopefully, you have family and friends who want to help. Grief counselors and others also are available to help.

How are you perceiving and responding to this sad, unavoidable reality of losing your loved one? Do not grow weary and lose heart, your “new normal” is within your reach.

Stay the course!

Robbins is a chaplain with SouthernCare Hospice. Reach him at moandrandy@aol.com or (228) 396-4756.

ealth I tr to laugh things o CONTINUED FROM PAGE 71

the small stuff. I am here for a finite amount of time and I am finally learning to live in the moment and set boundaries so I can focus on what I feel is most valuable to me. I highly recommend it. Make cookies from scratch. se your crockpot. ead a book instead of surfing the web. Try not to multitask all the time.

Literally, sit still and be quiet for 10 minutes; your blood pressure and pulse rate and respiratory rate will stay lower all day.

Treat yourself like you would treat your daughter.

This piece of advice has also helped me www.gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

immensely. When I am completely frazzled and feel overwhelmed, I have learned to ask myself, “What advice would you give your little girl?” Honest to goodness that thought has stopped my obsessing and I have made myself a healthy snack, taken a bath, and put myself to bed. I tell myself what I used to tell my children when they needed to stop whining, “Go work on your personality!” After these simple steps, I am able to think through the circumstances from the eyes of a mother and the answers seem to come effortlessly.

Sometimes we forget that as adults we need time outs and positive reinforcement, too.

We only get to walk this way once and it definitely helps me when I have certain strategies that I use to bring things back in to focus. I pray a lot, I exercise often, I eat my vegetables and drink my milk, I try to laugh things off if I can and I try to give others the benefit of the doubt whenever possible. I do my best to keep my side of the street clean. It helps me sleep at night.

Dr. Pisciotta is an obstetrician/ gynecologist at Gulf Coast Gynecology Clinic. Reach her office at (228) 207-6750.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TAZEWELL

Color, freedom and life

By Scott Naugle | Photograpy by William Colgin

Tazewell Morton

Tazewell is a messenger. Through his art, colorful and enlightening, he offers an alternative prism through which we may encounter our world.

The high wattage lights bleach the floors, walls, shelves and the people moving underneath searching for groceries and household items. The chain-store box is designed to speed along the transactions, pushing people in and out quickly, efficiently. Near the front of the store, an older man fumbles through the display of reading glasses, perplexed by the array 74

March - April 2015

of choices. A younger lady, 30 perhaps, notices and assists. She is drawn to his openness and patience in muddling through the situation. She eventually buys the glasses for him, a pure and simple act of kindness as a thank you to the gentleman brightening her early morning visit to Walmart.

Rows away, I watch Tazewell leave the store with new reading glasses in hand. I regret not walking over to say hello, but he is gone through the swishing automatic double doors.

Minutes later, Tazewell returns, his arms cradling several

of his small creations. He finds the lady who assisted him with the glasses and places a ceramic figure in her hands. The response is a mixture of surprise and emotion. Her eyes fill with tears. Hey, Mr. Tazewell,” shouts a man in the register line, “How are you?” Tazewell offers him gift as well.

For a moment, the white, impersonal light bouncing off the polished concrete floor transforms to a palette of warmer hues, momentarily refracting through the soul and kindness of an artist with nothing in his heart but the desire to spread a joyful vision through his work.

Ta ewell Morton prefers to be known only by his first name.

Born in Birmingham, Tazewell considers Pass Christian home. With his immediate family in Alabama, he spends solitary weeks working at his studio in Pass Christian. The small, octagonal cottage, dating from the early 20th century, boasts only a few creaky rooms, noisy plumbing, and marginal heating and cooling. Watercolors lean against the walls, small ceramic figures form rows on a folding table like soldiers lined for battle, and the dining table is covered in cut and painted wooden statues. There is a bed along a side wall. It too is littered with sketch paper and recently fired and gla ed pieces.

The indentation in the bed suggests where he sleeps alongside his work. Tazewell’s career as a big-city advertising executive and in academia are decades in the past.

Describing Tazewell as an odd man may allow the impression he is strange or dark-minded. He is neither, but odd in the sense I know of no one else like him who appears to live in a stream of consciousness. Tazewell follows the moment with an artistic muse as guide, eschewing convention or the constraints of expectations.

If there is a theme in the work of Tazewell, the watercolors and oil paintings, the ceramics, and the outdoor sculptures, it is one of bliss sourced in the freedom of spirit.

“All That Tazz” features four aquatic creatures, each playing an instrument, in a merry parade of music and gaiety. The alligator, as benign and as joyful an alligator that you’ll ever see, playing the saxophone. The lobster blows into a bugle. Between are two fish, alive in shades of greens, blues, and purples. Musical notes burst in gleeful passage from each instrument while all appear to be dancing in an aquatic ensemble of jazz. There is a sense of movement in the painting, the amphibians swinging and grooving to the riffs unleashed from their instruments in an improvisational melodious collage. The background is white, leaving the context to the imagination Whether it is a Live oak with hundreds of Mardi Gras beads dangling from dozens of branches, a multi-colored hand kissed by a butterfly at the tip of a finger, or a line of smiling faces pedaling on bicycle wheels, there are commonalities within the prolific art of Tazewell, regardless of media. In many of his works, the main sub ects are removed from any background. The central ob ect, fish, elephant, person, or tree, lacks connection to a place or context.

This frees the imagination to focus on the intricately detailed and colorful subjects, without any experiential or emotional baggage.

Disengaged from the weight of the world, unmoored and lifted from expected or familiar circumstances, the effect is one of nudging the viewer into a world of cool breezes and rhythmic tunes, where no shadows darken the moment.

It would be inappropriately dismissive to view Tazewell’s work as nonsubstantive or regard it as superficial hang-above-the-breakfast table art. The skill in the fine lines and intimate details of his work reflect years of practice and thought. I’m never satisfied, he told me, “I’m challenged to do new things everyday.” As to what he hopes one will gain from his work, “I don’t know why people are not www.gcwmultimedia.com

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happier. I want them to be.” Tazewell does not mean this in a trivial and momentary way, but desires that we all see the beauty and joy possible in our relations with others and our natural surroundings. “I gave up stress years ago and choose a life in art as personal fulfillment and to show others it can be done.”

In the past few years, Tazewell’s work was exhibited in Atlanta, Mobile, Hartford and New York City. It is available locally in Long Beach at Blue Skies Gallery.

If it would be anyone other than Tazewell, there could be valid concern that advancing years will slow the flow of work. ther than a slight tremor in his hands, and the need for reading glasses to see closely as he works on canvas or ceramic, his energy and creativity are unchecked. He walks slower now than when I first met him 1 years ago, but then again, so do I. Tazewell was challenged a few months ago to create a signature teacup and saucer for a local coffeehouse. Rather than offer a single design that could be mass-produced, he individually painted 24 cups and saucers. Each is wildly different. Multi-colored figures dance around the sides of the cup on one design. The saucer aligns with their feet. Hieroglyphic profiles surround another. A painted hand grasps the handle and inside the cup of a third. In all, days of work were poured into each cup and saucer. Through Tazewell’s intellect, the ordinary daily ritual of drinking a cup of tea becomes a commune with bliss through art, an extraordinary moment. The cups will be featured in an exhibition in Pass Christian later this spring.

“I knew who he was when he came in and sat down, but I did not want to disturb him,” explains Lam Hoang, a server at Hook Restaurant.

“Eventually, he spoke to me, and for the next 20 minutes asked questions about me and it was clear his interest was genuine.” “Louie the Buoy,” a children’s book illustrated by Tazewell, came up. “He told me how he did it and explained the process of matching his art with the author’s story of a buoy near Henderson Point. He was the nicest man.”

This is the artist-messenger for whom art is inseparable from existence.

That’s Tazz.

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March - April 2015

LITERARY INBOX

Violinist The

I

A short story by Elaine Stevens ©

2015

craved the sweet escape of music. Ablaze with lights, the theater pulsated with opening night excitement. Completely unsuspecting of the journey before me, I took my reserved season seat and routinely thumbed the program. At the very least I will yield to the melodious flight into a century past while at the same time fulfilling another weekend social obligation of see-and-be-seen at the symphony.

Formally attired patrons strolled down theatre aisles to their designated row of vintage burgundy velvet chairs; however, the mélange de parfums was overpowering. I applauded the entrance of the musicians and then the maestro.

As the Chopin nocturne filled the air, my heart pounded when I saw him. He was first violin. Seated near the edge of the stage he caressed his instrument as maestro gave the cue. I felt as though he were stroking me. His regal ethnicity drew me in. I became a helpless child caught in the embrace of his music.

Nostalgic love songs played in my head. Embrace me, my sweet embraceable you…. Embrace me, you irreplaceable you…..I begged silently he would touch me as he touched her. Tenderly, gracefully his slim manicured fingers plucked the strings at each appropriate moment. He was beyond passionate. His darkness surfaced with each motion as his bow created legato for me alone. His immaculate perception awed me.

I was overcome not by the music, but by his music. The energies he exerted were intense. He existed solely for me during the hour on stage.

I imagined him disappearing in a puff of smoke at the conclusion of the symphony.

In the forefront of his colleagues, he radiated like a dark and lusty star.

His handsomeness. No. His beauty overshadowed the music’s intricacy.

I watched as his feet, covered in black patent, moved to his passion play.

In the mundane metal chair he was like a prince seated on an ornate throne. Swaying with the melodies, he and the violin became one.

Throughout the rest of the season I waited for him to glow with the radiance of a brilliant virtuoso. I could not imagine a performance without him. He was always suited to perfection, in black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt cuffed with links that twinkled by stage light. His head tossed dramatically from side to side. His smooth full lips parted with each musical subtlety. He seemed to feel every note. So did I. Were the diamond links a prized possession given to him by his paramour? Were they given as a token of forever love? Perhaps they were a family heirloom handed down by his violinist grandfather. Whatever their origin, the jewels were a part of him. They sparkled and danced on his wrists as he manipulated the bow.

Blue-black hair groomed in GQ style shimmered from the lights above. I imagined his scent—deliciously sweet, fresh youth, exuding honeyed talents. Hugging his beloved, he smiled as she in turn

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… And the night shall be filled with music, And the cares, that infest the day, Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs, And as silently steal away.

Excerpted from “The Day is Done” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

reciprocated with exquisite song. Tiny beads of perspiration above his brow glistened beneath the lights. They are blinded and deafened by distractions.

His black eyes fluttered with each stroke of his long and slender bow. He never gazed into the audience. Entranced entirely by his musical intercourse, he never discovered me. For once in my life I was at ease with love unrequited. I realized that he lived to play the music and nothing else.

The tingling in my body did not cease with the orchestra’s final note. esonating with the sensations of his musical zeal, I was limp with emotion. He and I remained alone in the brief silence.

Turning to face his fans, he glanced my way, or was my wild imagination working overtime? The moment died before a rousing standing ovation.

I gazed only at him as he took his much-deserved bow.

Everyone else faded from sight. How could any other musician attempt to seek approval from this audience? He is the one and only genius on stage.

The applause dissipated as the musicians gathered their equipment. Suddenly realizing I was alone in the theatre, I rose from my seat, completely enervated and made my way towards

the lobby. I will never see him again. He made the music live inside of me. The season was over and he, like the other musicians, would travel to other cities fulfilling their musical missions. Was this the grand finale for me and my violinist?

Just as I was about to exit orchestra hall, I inhaled the scent of Aramis. The exotic sandalwood and leather mixture permeated me to my core. I sensed a longing deep inside for the music he had played.

I needed to hear him, see him one last time. I closed my eyes, hoping that I could create him in my mind’s eye. As I stood motionless in my reverie, I allowed the few remaining patrons to brush by me.

Lost in my waking dream, I felt an intimate presence. The masculine smell of sweat and cologne engulfed me. It was working. At least I shall be left with … .

Someone softly touched my right hand. I felt the coolness of metal before closing my palm around it.

I opened my eyes to see the back of his head as he walked away. He turned to see if I had grasped his gift.

I looked down to find his sparkling diamond cufflinks. ur eyes met; then he was gone.

DON’T MISS THE VIENNA BOYS CHOIR March 9. 7 p.m. The Vienna Boys Choir will perform a concert for the Mississippi Coast. Rooted in the 13th century, the ienna Boys’ Choir one of the oldest and most famous boys’ choir in the world-maintains the tradition of performing music for Sunday Mass at Vienna’s Imperial Chapel, as they have done since 1498. These talented boys, all between the ages of 10 and 14, travel the world performing for audiences that number in the thousands. Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. (228) 818-2878. Admission: $59. General admission child: $35 (10 and younger) THE AFRICAN DIVA PROJECT: PAINTINGS BY MARGARET ROSE VENDRYES Through March 7. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Margaret Rose Vendryes in an artist, lecturer, historian, author and curator with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art and master’s and doctorate degrees in Art History.

Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi.

22 -55 . General admission adult: 10 1 .

General admission child: 5. Children younger than 5, free. General admission senior: 60 amd Military & AAA).

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March - April 2015

A ROCK A poem by James Patrick Wilson Here’s a rock I want you to have It does not do anything It sits there hard and sits like it is waiting It does not grow and it does not care for the snow It is strong and doesn’t get upset when it is wrong It is a rock But when I give it to you It starts to bleed It starts to grow It begins to walk, talk and care about whose at fault It is strong, but you’ll make it weak, only to make it strong again Take my rock and make it my heart

Submit your literary work Have a short story or poem you’d like to share? E-mail the editor at dorothywilson@ gcwmultimedia.com.

RELATIONSHIPS

Managing the boss

or at least trying to!

By Elaine Stevens

They used to be called secretaries — those who serve the rich, powerful and in the Renaissance, royalty. Derived from the Latin, secernere, it means “to distinguish” or “to set apart.” The meaning eventually evolved into secret, private or confidential. Thanks to political correctness, private secretaries are today most often referred to as administrative assistants in the corporate world and clerks — with titles and official swearings-in — in the political arena. They are even honored during the year with their own Administrative Professionals’ Day. N onetheless, those they serve remain “bosses.”

POLITICS FIRST

It’s difficult enough to get into a routine with one boss His or her way of managing, how he likes his coffee, when to speak or wait until spoken to, along with a myriad of other tasks and character traits one becomes accustomed to over time. Well, how would you like to have seven bosses — at once? And, out of that seven, a solid majority of them could change every four years? That’s the employment saga of clerks of city councils in South Mississippi municipalities. Gulf Coast Woman met three such dynamos at Biloxi City Hall who have as much political savvy and diplomacy as any international ambassador. They are different personalities, range in employment tenure from barely a year to more than 30 years, and have a variety of skills and talents. However, their commonality: They love their job, they love Biloxi, and all seven of their bosses.

We have never had as many as five new members to come on board at one time as was this most recent administration,” says Clerk of Council Karen Brashier, who began her career with the city of Biloxi in 1984.

“Obviously, the transferring process can be quite challenging, but things work out, with lots of prayers.”

On the other end of city clerk employment status, at about nine months on the job, Stephanie Rosetti, assistant deputy clerk of council, describes working for seven people of varying genders, personalities, and political views as “interesting, invigorating, never boring!” She adds that there is “constant tutelage” for all involved.

With more than 20 years of service, Keri Campbell, deputy clerk of council, was a high school senior when she came on board. By adapting to change, Campbell says, serving seven masters isn’t that complicated, if you are up to the daily challenge. “One of the hardest things is when they all call at the same time with different problems … we just prioritize and get the job done.”

Veteran city employee Brashier says humor and respect really make the difference in the quality of customer service, whether she is dealing directly with council members or the public. She added that funny questions like “how does someone who is in prison get a marriage license,” often make her want to answer the phone, “Good afternoon, Counseling ffice. Campbell had a similar experience when the caller on the other end actually said, “Honey, I need some counseling.” To which Campbell replied, “Don’t we all!”

www.gcwmultimedia.com

r, how about the day there were flooding issues with numerous residents calling constantly, last minute resolutions to be added to the agenda, two clerks on sick leave and only one left holding down the fort! All agree that remaining calm in the midst of that kind of chaos and handling each case in the order of necessity is the best formula to follow. Technology, they say, has proven to be their greatest ally in such scenarios. For the novice in the trio, Rosettti sets her goal as “creating the highest outcome for our City and citizens.” Her credo: “Successful people build each other up. They motivate, inspire, and push each other to be the best we can be.”

From “serving” politicos like Attorney General Mike Moore to casino executives, Nancy East is a true professional when it comes to remaining calm in crises, attending to details, and managing male bosses. She says being the executive administrative assistant to Todd Raziano, Hard Rock Casino’s executive vice president and general manager, isn’t really that different from working with Moore — with one exception: “I went from speaking legalese in Mike’s office to trying to figure out what a WAP ( Wireless Access Protocol) and a Konami (type of slot machine) were — had to learn an entirely new language!”

Over her 30-plus career, East has found a great deal of excitement in her administrative assistant positions, regardless of the endless phone calls and clerical tasks often re uired of her. I was able to finally fulfill my lifelong wish of standing just one foot away from my hero, Willie Nelson, at a private press conference. I was in heaven!” Working with the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic each year has allowed East to get to know many of the nation’s top professional golfers on a first name basis.

She has also met actor Russell Crowe, news personalities, Stone Phillips and Connie Chung, and many others during the tobacco litigation under Moore’s administration, at which time the Academy Award-winning movie, “The Insider,” was filmed on location in Pascagoula. eing at the beck and call of high profile casino executives like Raziano can be demanding, but, “I love every minute of it,” East says. and it definitely keeps you on your toes 2 . She chuckles as she explains the hardest part of her job is “making sure my boss checks his inbox each and every day.” As for communication with Raziano, East says, “It’s great. We talk constantly about that darn inbox!”

Like her colleagues in City Hall, East says being a good listener is a key to excelling in your ob. Her advice to others in her field Do your job, keep your head down, your mouth shut, and be a buffer zone for the boss.” And, if she were boss what would East do differently? “I would check my inbox every day!”

By the way, as of this writing, East says she is doing a happy dance, because her boss is finally working on that’s right clearing out his inbox!

NOTE TO BOSS Administrative Professionals’ Day is April 22!

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FASHION & BEAUTY

More than a makeover!

Winner Felipa Marin finally gets a turn to be pampered and served

BY Andrea Yeager Photography by William Colgin

Working seven days a week leaves little time for pampering, so a day of beauty and care was almost too much for Felipa Marin.

“I can’t believe this is happening to me,” she says while colorist Alex Jones and Angela Taylor dab on chocolate shades to create highlights and lighter brown shades for lowlights. “I never dreamed such a thing.”

The 37-year-old business owner is used to taking care of others, not herself. She and her team of three women are The Magic Ladies, a professional house-cleaning service that runs seven days a week.

The Gulf Coast Woman More Than A Makeover Team, led by Tanya Tancredi of Tanya Tancredi Salon, simply want Marin to feel special and, of course, pampered.

“She’s always tending to others; now it’s her turn,” Tancredi says as Marin’s face beams from excitement. She actually was giggling when she entered the salon.

While the colorists work their magic, her friend and sometimes translator praise Marin for her drive to succeed.

“She came to the Coast in 2005 working post-Katrina demolition and construction,” Suzy Stark says. “Then, she started working as a room attendant at Beau Rivage and quickly was promoted to suitesonly attendant, all while taking English classes. She quit after her own business grew so much. She does three to four houses a day. She is one of the most creative, artistic people I know.”

But this day, Marin is the center of attention, and she is enjoying every minute of it. She has never colored her hair, so today is a first.

The colorists’ goal is to enhance her natural color by adding dimension and to bump up her virgin color.

Marin, who hails from Puebla, Mexico, keeps smiling as her hair is folded in foil, and she waits with anticipation to see her new self. When the coloring is completed, she hugs Taylor and Jones.

Melinda Hryhorchuk, a hairstylist for 22 years, softens the fullness of Marin’s face with feathery strands that frame the face. Marin likes her At top left, Louis Peterman works magic on Felipa Marin on her big makeover day.

BEFORE

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March - April 2015

At right, top, Angela Taylor and Tanya Tancredi assist with transformation. In center photograph, Melinda Hryhorchuk specializes in hair cutting. At bottom, Marin meets Dr. Hebe ia . he is earing an out t style by amara urley o ack on the Rack.

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MORE THAN A MAKEOVER TEAM #2 Team members for the second 2015 makeover are: • Angela Taylor, colorist for more than 10 years and overall stylist for the makeover.

• Alex Jones, colorist at Tanya Tancredi Salon.

• Melinda Hryhorchuk, specialized hair cutter and stylist for more than 22 years.

• Louis Peterman, makeup artist and Bobbi Brown representative.

• Tamara Murley, fashion stylist at Back on the Rack in downtown Gulfport.

• Dr. Hebe Diaz, gynecologist and obstetrician at Cedar Lake Medical Center in Biloxi.

1260 Ocean Springs Rd ~ Ocean Springs, MS 39564

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We consist of Freelance artists specializing in mastered techniques in hair cutting, coloring, event hair, hair lengthening, Keratins, correction.

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Tanya Tancredi’s satellite salon at Red Lily Spa downtown Ocean Springs featuring New York City celebrity stylist Shane Michael Manieri.

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long hair, so much of the length stays.

Next, it’s time for makeup artist Louis Peterman to add more glam. He focuses on emphasizing Marin’s natural beauty.

“I am going very natural on the eyelids and (applying) a dewy bronze on the face,” he says. “I do want to open up her eyes with false lashes, and I don’t want a raccoon look of liner all around the eyes.”

This daytime look can go into the night with a little coal liner smudge over the eye. The slight redness of Marin’s complexion is neutrali ed with a yellow base foundation. A flick of the brush adds brownish-pink to her cheeks.

“She has perfect lips, so I am using a natural pink on the lips with a chocolate berry gloss over it,” Peterman says.

What makeover would be complete without new clothes and shoes? Tamara Murley, fashion stylist at Back on the Rack, works her magic with two flattering outfits, including shoes, purse and ewelry to complement the daytime and evening looks.

The daytime is a dynamite flack-and-white kimono-style dress that makes her new hair and makeup pop. For dinner with husband José, the petite Marin plans to wear the navy dress with cascading tiers on the bodice and sexy gunmetal peep-toe pumps with jeweled bow.

But wait, the makeover is not over yet!

“I want these makeovers to be more than simply hair, makeup and fashion,” says Tancredi, who loves helping women be the best they can be. “I know that Felipa is so busy helping others that she neglects herself and doesn’t take time for doctors’ visits.”

Gynecologist Dr. Hebe Diaz of Cedar Lake Medical Center volunteered to cover Marin’s examination.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Diaz, who speaks Spanish fluently. Helping others gives me purpose and fulfills me more.

When Marin hears this, she tears up, so thankful for her beautiful day. “I feel like Cinderella.”

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JOIN THE MAKEOVER TEAM If you are interested in providing a service for the next makeover winner, please email Tancredi at tanyacredi@hotmail.com

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Step into SPRING!

By Mallory Fitzgerald pgrading your makeup with the seasons can be easy and fun Put a fresh twist into your routine and let the spring weather into your makeup bag with these easy and simple tips.

CLASSIC BLACK WINGED LINER

Place ust a swipe on the upper lash line and flick it outward for that feline wing. This look never goes out of style and was seen all over the red carpet during this award season. Try it with a gel liner and a small angled brush. If you have trouble getting that wing right, there are plenty of wonderful tutorials all over the Internet to help you out!

Try: E.L.F Cream eyeliner in Black, or NARS Eye Paint in Black Valley.

LIPS ON FIRE

Fresh, bright pops of color on the lips are perfect for spring, especially after the dullness of winter. Berry, red and orange lip colors are great for refreshing your look and kicking off this season with a bang. If you’re going colorful and bright on the lips, keep it simple on your eyes —maybe some mascara, a light swipe of liner. This way, your lips are really the star of the show. (Pro tip: When wearing bright lipstick, always use a similar colored lip liner first around the edge of your lips, then apply the color. This will prevent color bleeding or feathering.)

Try: Maybelline Color Elixir in Dashing Orchid, or Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid lipstick in Retro Coral.

COLORED EYELINER

This is a twist on the classic eyeliner look. Try a deep blue, purple or green eyeliner in place of your black. Not only will this make your eyes glow, it adds new interest to the everyday. With this look, the colorful liner is the focus, so keep the lips simple/ neutral.

Try: Laura Mercier Longwear Crème Eye Pencil in Violet, or Stila Smudge Stick waterproof eyeliner in Jade.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

Spring is ALL about fresh, natural skin! This means up your skincare and dial down the concealer. se a moisturi er with a glow to it, and after foundation, add bronzer to the high points of the face to give a sun-kissed glow — another spring trend!

For moisturizer, try: MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream or Loreal Paris Age Perfect Glow Renewal Day/Night Cream.

For Bronzer, try: Nars Laguna Bronzer or Palladio Baked Bronzer.

Always remember: Beauty radiates outward from within. As long as you feel beautiful, you look beautiful!

Follow Mallory Fitzgerald on Facebook. She is a freelance makeup artist on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She has been a makeup artist and consultant for magazines and cover models and participated in fashion weeks and runway shows. Contact her at malloryfitzgerald@yahoo.com.

E.L.F. cream eyeliner in black

Nars Laguna Bronzer

Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid lipstick 84

March - April 2015

What’s your signature look?

Time to dial it

By Brenda Blount Have you pushed those New Year’s resolutions aside? Well, the good news is that you can always start over. It does not matter if its Jan. 1 or March 1 or April 1, you can decide to hit the reset button at anytime and start over. That’s the beauty of being open to the possibilities ahead of you.

So, why not hit the reset button on your personal style. Do you have a signature style, are you always chic? What’s your signature look? Take a personal assessment of where you are right now. What would you like to change?

Little changes will add up to big style.

A BIT HERE, A BIT THERE

Little changes are as easy as changing your eyeglasses. Have you been wearing the same glasses for the past five years? Try something fun, such as a flaming red frame, polka dots or animal prints.

Too daring you say? Try it for a day experiment with inexpensive readers in bold prints or colors until you find a frame and color that speaks to you.

Open your closet, what do you see? Is there a sea of black? A little color will go a long way to adding life into your wardrobe. Pair that perfect black blazer with a big pop of color to bring a chic edge to your look.

SALON BLEU Hair Salon

Cristina Switzer Salon Bleu @ Salon 9354

DAYS AND 7 WAYS TO LOOK CHIC EVERYDAY

MONDAY: Pair a starched white shirt with your usual black blazer and pants and add a couple of pair of pearls.

TUESDAY: Layer a black leather jacket over your starched white shirt with pants and add a turquoise nec lace here s our pop of color.

WEDNESDAY: Black bla er, floral blouse, choose one color from the blouse and wear a necklace in that color.

No need to worry about matching colors exactly that s so s. on t be afraid of prints; they are huge for spring.

THURSDAY: Time to show o our legs. black pencil skirt is both flattering and incredibl easy to wear. Pair that pencil s irt with our floral blouse and add pearls.

You are ready to go!

FRIDAY: Okay, I know it’s casual rida in the o ce,

so let’s really amp up a casual look and not look like we are going to the gym. Try a denim jacket over that white shirt with khaki pants and add pearls. on t s imp on accessories because it’s Friday. Stay true and stay chic. Whatever you do, don’t wear a denim jacket and jeans together. There is no such thing as a jean suit.

SATURDAY: It’s the weekend. Why not try a simple day makeup makeover. You can go to the Bobbie Brown makeup counter and request a simple day look that you can re-create on your own. Again, if you are running errands, make an e ort to loo our best you never know who you will run into.

SUNDAY: Ah, our day of rest. If you go out, make sure you take one last look in the mirror.

HIP IMPLANT SETTLEMENT

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The FDA recently issued a statement warning that they are investigating all metal on metal hip replacements on the market.

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Find the perfect

Color

for you

By Shane Michael Manieri Go lighter! This doesn’t always mean blonder. You can still go lighter and be a natural brown, or a fantastic red. But hair color is not a manicure. It’s not as easy as changing nail polish. You shouldn’t do a radical makeover if you’re not sure. Get a wig for that! Hair color is like sculpting and sculpting takes time and care. That doesn’t mean you won’t leave the salon feeling like you had a change.

Hair color is like a mat around a picture in a frame. Whatever the color the mat, the colors of the picture — the face — become more enhanced … or not. Hair’s tones and hues contribute largely to either boost or minimize shades and pigments of skin and eyes. This is the No. 1 deciding factor in choosing what’s best for you. And it can only be decided in consultation.

There are many ways to elevate hair color without being radical.

Some techniques that come quickly to mind are weaving, slicing (weaving’s bolder twin), and ombré (going from light to dark), a method that works not only for brunettes, but also blonde on blonde, and even redheads. All of these techniques, when done with the right amount attention and creativity, make hair look sun-kissed, more natural.

EYE-CATCHING BABY BLONDES

Is your blonde too stripy or too monotone? If that’s the case, to make blonde look more like a child-at-the-beach blonde, I recommend lowlights. Lowlights doesn’t always mean dark. It might mean slicing more wheat, vanilla, hazel, or buttery tones throughout to break up hard or streaky lines.

DEEP NATURAL MAHOGANY BROWNS

Does your brown have a dynamic edge? Perhaps you need a starburst.

A starburst of highlights adds dimension around the face to give it more life. Here weaving and interlacing are important. inely woven flecks and tones for this process. You want your highlights to loop and mingle in and out of the darker hues to create a timeless chestnut or a rich chocolate.

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March - April 2015

FANTASTIC VIBRANT REDS

Golden red silk. Sunrise on the horizon. Autumn leaves. Molten gold mixed with honey. These are some of the ways I think of redheads.

Does your red hair have depth and dimension? Many single-processed reds, in my opinion, need more pop; this can be accomplished by simply adding more copper, ginger or honey hues. To help with this, I sometimes weave, sometimes slice, but I also use the ombré method I mentioned earlier.

RADIANCE

To improve any color, whether blonde, brunette, or red, my tried and true technique is to mix and loop secondary and tertiary blushes throughout hair to make it sparkle, so that we achieve the shades that are best for you. And when you look your best, you radiate; and when you radiate, your confidence grows; and when your confidence is high, you glow, and look more youthful and beautiful.

Manieri is a freelance editorial stylist from New York City working at Tanya Tancredi Salon, 1419A 27th Ave., Gulfport, MS, and Red Lily Spa, 1202 Government St., Ocean Springs.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Bay-centric Short visit turns into love of the Bay and 2 businesses

By Ellis Anderson Photography by Ellis Anderson www.bslfourthward.com When ay-ti ue’s owner ane Alford first moved from Maryland to the Gulf Coast, she didn’t plan to stay. She’d found an excellent job in Mississippi that would further her career as an occupational therapist, but her real home was outside of the cosmopolitan city of Washington, D.C. While she arrived on the Coast with a great attitude — positive she’d enjoy her short stay — “short” was the operative word. Alford committed to five years, then planned to head north again.

Seventeen years later, she has no plans to go anywhere. She owns two thriving businesses in Old Town and is serving her second term as Jane Alford, owner of Bay-tique’s

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Bay-tique CONTINUED FROM PAGE 87

president of the Old Town Merchant’s Association.

“I absolutely fell in love with the area,” she says. “I have a real passion for Bay St. Louis.”

That passion shows in the two lovely historic houses she’s renovated in Old Town Bay St. Louis. One serves as home for Alford and her fianc business partner evin ulpeksa. Next door, at the elegant Carroll House Bed & Breakfast, the couple play host to visitors from across the country, many of whom who are discovering the area’s mysti ue for the first time.

Our Mission: To assist persons with disabilities and those who are otherwise vocationally disadvantaged to achieve full participation and integration into society. This is accomplished by developing and delivering effective services that enable clients to attain their personal and economic goals.

In other words, we provide employment counseling, training, and jobs!

www.shopgoodwill.com

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Time to See

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Money CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Specifically, a chip is programmed with digital data and processing instructions, then embedded in a standard plastic credit card behind gold plated conductive contacts on the front of the card. The chip is “powered up” when the card is inserted into an EMV reader, which often is a slot on the front of the credit card terminal. The reader sends a command to the card, which then sends a response to authenticate the card to either credit or PIN debit.

Before completing the transaction process, the card circuit generates a transaction-specific cryptogram to ensure that the transaction cannot be cloned. The sophistication of the processor and data capacity of the chip allows it to generate security features and safeguards that magnetic stripe cards cannot.

TRENDS IN EMV/NFC ADOPTION IN THE U.S.

As noted earlier, the .S. is pro ected to be fully engulfed in the EM market by the end of 2015, and we should see a widespread adoption of the chip-and-PIN cards already used throughout the world. EMV compliant businesses will heavily influence the N C Point-of-Sale P S terminal and the mobile payments landscape.

In the process of upgrading to EMV standards, many merchants also will include devices called contactless readers. These readers are used for electronic payments and are commonly located inside businesses

near cash registers, credit card terminals, PIN pads, and other places of payment. This changing landscape will lay a framework for widespread NFC mobile payment acceptance globally.

New research forecasts that by 2017, 86 percent of POS terminals in North America will accept NFC payments, and in-store mobile wallet volume will grow $44 billion as mobile wallets such as Google Wallet and PassBook build in popularity.

To break this down, at NFC-capable locations, consumers can hold their card next to the credit card terminal and it will pick up card information to complete the transaction. In the credit card world, this is called “contactless,” meaning the card is not touching the terminal. This technology has now been adapted into mobile payment functions such as Apple Pay, as well as mobile-based loyalty reward programs.

The simple, instant interaction and speed of the transaction capability of NFC technology on an EMV platform will bring many benefits to the market. It’s also convenient and attractive to a growing number of customers, especially the millennial generation.

Bryan Rodgers is owner/president of Loyalty Systems LLC and CoCard Gulf Coast. Reach him at (228) 234-6880 or brodgers@ cocard.net. More info: www.cocardgulfcoast.com.

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89

PARENTING

“Strong-willed child” are not bad words!

By Rebecca Ritchey

The strong-willed child. That short phrase can cause a chill to run up your back. And when you think of saying, “No,” a visual of a tiny natural disaster setting off flashes to mind.

A strong-willed child has been called many things — but the more positive descriptions are that the child is spirited, headstrong, decisive and unbending.

Those are great characteristics to have as an adult, but when shaping these little ones, it can be a cause for heartache, headache, and defeat. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve felt like throwing my hands in the air and saying, “I don’t know what to do!” The good news is we are not alone, and parenting a strong-willed child can produce a positively driven adult.

I have three strong-willed children, each with their own challenges. The more I have spoken to other parents, the more I realize that the strong-willed child is really not an oddity at all. I have found that when I open up about one of my strong-willed children, or someone sees them in action, I am able to form a common ground with another parent. In finding the common ground, you are able to encourage one another, laugh, and step in to help. And there are thousands of books written about this topic.

THERE IS HOPE I recently read a statistic that 85 percent of children who are strong-willed will return to parental values as an adult. If you have a strong-willed child, keep guiding her and loving her while showing her the correct path to take.

According to Dr. ames Dobson, What this means, first of all, is that these tough-minded kids will argue and fight and complain throughout their years at home, but the majority will turn around when they reach young adulthood and do what their parents most desired. That should be reassuring.”

LET’S BE REAL I was a very strong-willed child myself. I spoke to my mom about this.

During my teenage years, my parents were very concerned about whether they and I would survive. I did get into trouble and rebelled as a teenager and young adult. As an adult, I have become very driven, passionate, and as my mom told me, I have become her friend as well as her daughter. My parents did what they thought best, and I commend them and thank them for not giving up on me.

I’m not an expert, of course, but I have learned a few things about raising a strong-willed child. One of the best things you can do for them is to love them through the tough times. Let your child know that you love them. Be there for them. My mom would stay up at night and listen to me talk as a teenager; that was the time I would actually open up. If your child is young, guide them consistently, and use a balance of punishment and rewards.

Ritchey is CEO of the Ritchey household, the mother of three children and wife to Jonathan. Reach her at rebeccaritchey@ymail.com.

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91

FOOD

Celebrate SPRING

By Chef Danie Rodriquez This time of year is so refreshing. The last cold winds of winter are slowly dying down and warm breezes are on their way. Everything is coming back to life as if the world is waking from our winter hibernation. Spring is about new life and renewal of life. When I think of spring and life renewing itself, I think of Easter, and when I think of Easter, I think of lamb. Somehow my mind always goes to food.

Every year for Easter, a stuffed leg of lamb finds its way to the center of our family table. Lamb is tender and juicy but sometimes VERY intimidating. I have a great recipe for you to make it less intimidating and more of a staple at holiday meals.

As we gather our families for this special time of year, we should all think about life renewing itself and celebrate the season in all of its glory. Enjoy the warm breezes and enjoy some time around the table with the ones you love. Surprise them a new addition to the holiday meal this year.

Rodriquez offers culinary classes and catering at her Biloxi business. Let me know what you think. Email her at chefdaniecooks@yahoo.com.

92

March - April 2015

This is my recipe

b. I hope it finds its for stuffed leg of lam

ur Easter table, too.

way to the center of yo

d lb prosciutto thin slice cup lemon uice cup olive oil cup red wine drink) (something you would

Basil Pesto Filling lb fresh basil oil cu 1 p extra virgin olive d pe 1 clove garlic chop 1 T Parmesan

Stuffed Leg of Lamb b 1 boneless leg of lam mary se ro sh fre of 4 springs 2 T granulated garlic 2 T granulated onion te Salt and pepper to tas d) pe op (ch rlic ga s 2 clove er and set aside. r until blended togeth so es oc lamb that you pr d foo a in sil pesto the boneless legs of of st Mo at. t ou it Mix ingredients for ba lay d of all of the lamb and open it up an inside of the lamb with the on as Se at. y nwrap boneless leg of ett pr roll leaving about 1 inch tter ied so they will un sto on the lamb meat pe sil ba d rea Sp buy will already be bu at. me d using cooking pepper the inside of the sto. Roll the lamb up an pe sil ba the of seasonings. Salt and top the wn the length of the slices of prosciutto on shape all of the way do in en ev be to b around the edge. Lay lam the b together. You want twine lightly tie the lam y. wa b into the zipper t tha ly en ok more ev per bag. Put rolled lam zip n llo ga to d ad leg because it will co d an er t down the outside oil and red wine togeth from marinade and pa b lam ve mo Re ht.

Mix lemon juice, olive nig over least 2 hours or up to bag to marinate for at in a roasting pan and y. almost dr the lamb. Place lamb of de tsi ou the with paper towels till on it rub ing the times below onings together and to 325 and cook follow en ov the of p Mix the remaining seas tem the 20 minutes, then drop cook in a 450 oven for and is b. this will be well done for a 5-7 lb. leg of lam Anything longer than min 10 t at least mended. Let meat res grees in center om de 5 rec t 13 n: no mi 25 – 20 Rare center fore slicing. n: 145 degrees in the after cooking and be r nte Med – Rare, 25 – 30 mi ce the in s ee 35 min: 160 degr Med – Med well, 30 –

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93

“God-incidence”

Passover start, Good Friday coincide

By Andrea Yeager The first night of Passover and Good riday coincide April . ikewise, the Feast of or First Fruits and Easter occur April 5.

Feast of Firstfruits happens on the Sunday after Sabbath during Passover. Christians believe that esus was crucified on Good riday and was resurrected from the dead on Easter or Resurrection Sunday. ne Coast educator and iblical teacher sees this as significant to both Jews and Christians. “It’s a God-incidence,” says Peggy West of iloxi, former teacher of the year at Tulane niversity who began teaching on the Jewish roots of Christian faith in 2010. “I believe the time is here because Christians are beginning to learn about Jewish roots and Jews are beginning to receive their Jewish Messiah. Passover is a picture of the Messiah from beginning to end.”

West, who has doctorate degrees in mathematics and computer science with a minor in statistics, says the alignment of Passover and Good riday and estival of irstfruits and Easter are significant because of the lunar eclipses on different Hebrew festival days. The third blood moon will be April 5, and the fourth will occur on the Feast of Tabernacles (Sept. 27-Oct. 5). This alignment of the four blood moons and festivals will be the last for 400 years.

“The grouping of the four blood moons on different Hebrew festivals coincides with every major occurrence in Israel, such as 1948 when Israel became its own nation and the Six-Day War in 1967,” says West, who counsels doctoral students in statistics for their theses. “This alignment of feasts and blood moons increases the expectation that God is about to do something.”

This gives more emphasis to both Passover and Good Friday.

According to Rabbi Bruce Kadden, in his essay, “A Christian’s Guide to Passover, “For Jews, Passover represents the redemption from slavery 94

March - April 2015

and the deliverance to freedom. For Christians, Easter represents the ultimate redemption of humankind through the life and death of Jesus.”

Passover and Easter are related, but Passover is not the Jewish celebration of Easter or Resurrection Sunday. Some Jewish Passover practices took on new meanings in Christianity.

Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, has roots in Passover, since the New Testament says Jesus celebrated a Passover seder with his disciples that night. Some Christian churches have a seder, and others observe Holy Communion on Maundy Thursday.

West and her husband, ill, celebrate the first night of Passover with an elegant dinner for family and friends. Their finest china, crystal and linens are used for the seder. Their gathering is a large one, so the house has to be readied.

“The week before Passover we prepare the home,” West says. “All leaven, which represents sin, is removed from the house. We also do a special cleaning and move furniture to accommodate all our guests at tables set with freshly laundered linens.”

She does, however, make the actual dinner a little easier on herself.

She and her husband cook the meat, and dinner guests bring the vegetables and desserts. Of course, unleavened bread or matzo is served.

A symbolic Passover plate is placed on each table. Its contents are: Parsley, which represents life. The parsley is dipped in salt water that depicts the life of suffering and pain in Egypt and also that life sometimes is immersed in tears.

Horseradish or bitter herbs that remember how bitter life was in Egypt.

“To bring tears of compassion for the sorrows our ancestors knew,” says West, who became a Christian in the 1980s and embraced her Jewish roots in 2009.

Charoset, a brown apple mixture, that represents the mortar between the bricks that the Jews made. This is eaten with the bitter herbs because “even the most bitter circumstances are sweetened by the hope we have in God.” Shank bone of a lamb. Reminder of the lamb that was slain for the doorposts. “Interestingly, Christians are saved by the blood of the lamb,” West said.

Roasted egg or hard-boiled egg at the top of the plate, representing the holiday offering brought in the days of the temple.

The bowl of salt water in the center of the table.

Four glasses of wine are served during the meal to represent the four-fold promise of redemption. An extra place is set for Elijah.

“Malachi says God will sent a spirit of Elijah before Messiah comes,” West says. “Children even go to the door to see if Elijah’s come.

“For Christians, in the Second Coming, there will be one that comes in the spirit of Elijah,” she adds.

God gave all seven festivals to preview the Messiah’s first and second coming. The spring feasts fulfilled his first coming and the fall feasts will be fulfilled with His Second Coming.

Passover is the first of the spring feasts and depicts eshua’s or Jesus’ death and First Fruits, His Resurrection.

“It is just so powerful that it lines up with Good Friday and Easter this year,” West says. “As a Messianic Jew, I celebrate Easter according to God’s calendar, the way God intended.”

Bra sizes for everyone...

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Recipes courtesy of Peggy West

Here are two recipes of foods that are eaten on the first night of Passover: UNLEAVEN BREAD 1 cup whole wheat our extra for dusting 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup water Combine the ingredients, then put dough onto oured surface. Knead for five minutes, then roll out until about 1/8-inch thick. Pierce each cake with a fork. On either parchment paper or a greased cookie sheet, bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 20 minutes.

CHAROSET 1 cup walnuts 1 Granny Smith green apple 2 teaspoons cinnamon 2 teaspoons sugar Red wine to moisten (I used grape juice) Chop the nuts and apples to the consistency you want. I used a food processor. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar and moisten with wine or grape juice. This recipe can be doubled or tripled depending on the amount you need.

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Add some spice to your palate Dr. Philip L. Levin

Tandoori Chicken

T

he Indian subcontinent offers food as unique as their culture of a thousand gods and buildings of gold and jewels. Nicky Bijal, the Orchid Restaurant’s owner and manager, presents a noon buffet of a dozen brightly colored, flavorful dishes red tandoori chicken, yellow curried vegetables, and crisp freshly baked naan. “I love feeding people,” Bijal says.

“Bringing the delight of Indian food to the Mississippi Gulf Coast is my mission.” pened in uly, this is the first restaurant experience, in fact, the first business venture for i al. New to the Coast, she sought inspiration from her guru, Shree Sai Nath, whose name means flower, and who teaches that having food is more important than having money. She picked the name Orchid in honor of the name of his temple in Shirdi, India.

Special hand-cooked breads characterize Indian food, most notably, buttered naan. At Orchid, the baker hand-rolls and tosses each individual serving and bakes it on the inside wall of a Tandoor clay oven. Each meal comes with a basket of fresh-made 96

March - April 2015

naan, or one can order specialty types, such as garlic and cilantro for $2.95. One of the tastiest is the Pershawari, created during time of Moguls and made with crushed almonds and raisins.

With a special request, the staff will put in cherries as well.

The menu of naans include Onion Kulcha, Keema with minced lamb, and Aloo Parantha, made with green peas and potatoes stuffed between two naans and baked. Tandoori Roti naan is made with whole-wheat flour, while the athura is deep-fried flour bread. or those who like a bit of spice, try ullet Naan, with cilantro and peppers. “In India, we use small super-hot green chilies that we can’t get here,” Bijal confesses, “so we use alapenos. Add extra flavor by dolloping some yogurt on your naan.

Every chef has his or her personal cooking signature, creating dishes with the Indian spices, such as ginger, garlic and curry.

Indian restaurants offer vegetarian, chicken or lamb dishes; one will never find beef or pork on the menu.

“I met my chef, Ram, two years ago at a nice restaurant

in Pensacola; this was before I even considered opening a restaurant. My brother had just passed away, and the chef said, ‘Take me as your brother.’ Now he’s my brother and a chef.”

With 25 years of cooking experience, Ram creates unique dishes each day for the buffet, including eight vegetarian items, three chicken gravies, one tandoori chicken, one chicken Pershawari, two desserts, one soup, and unlimited fresh-made naan, all for just $10.

Orchid offers dinner dishes served 14 different ways. The variety includes mango, chili, coconut, and “Fenugreek Herb,” all about $13. Try Vindaloo (very VERY spicy), and Keema Mattar, marinated lamb and peas cooked with Indian spices and herbs.

I recommend the Goat Kadai, tender goat cooked with peppers, tomatoes, onions and mushrooms in a traditional Indian pan. It is served sprinkled with freshly ground spices and herbs.

Guided by the teachings of her guru, Bijal brings her generosity to the needy, regularly bringing food to local charities such as Feed My Sheep. “I can’t see myself doing anything else but feeding people,” she says. The best day to visit is Thursday, which in India is called, Guruvar, the day dedicated to gurus.

Enjoy the distinctive spices of the land of the many gods, and your stomach will be grateful.

Chef Ram and Orchid owner Nicky

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COAST CARES

Where can homeless families go for housing and stay together?

By Kearn Cherry

A few years ago, my husband and I were taking a drive when we saw a couple walking in downtown Gulfport. My husband thought the pair might be homeless and decided to ask if they needed a ride. They indeed were homeless and were trying to get to Pascagoula. They had heard that one of the shelters there had an opening.

Well, the drive there was wasted. The shelter not only didn’t have an opening, but it did not take men. After driving back to Biloxi and checking several other locations, we realized there was no place that would take both men and women. We decided to help them by placing them in a hotel. Our church assisted as well. They later were able to find a place to stay and a ob.

This experience was a real eye-opener for us. I realized this was a real problem. Where could homeless couples go for temporary housing? So, when I was approached a year and half ago to serve on the board for Rebekah’s House, I was very interested. I learned that Rebekah’s House is the only place on the Coast offering housing to homeless families.

Rebekah’s House assists families up to 60 days with the possibility of an extension, depending on the circumstances. In the short period of time that I have been on the board, I have seen several families come in and successfully find a place to stay and employment. Rebekah’s House, a non-profit organi ation, was started pre-Hurricane atrina by about1 churches from across the Coast who saw the issue homeless families

were facing. After Hurricane Katrina, Rebekah’s House was able to purchase a home that can house up to three families at one time. In addition to housing, families are provided other resources and assistance with finding housing and employment.

Ocean Springs - Long Beach Interfaith Hospitality Network operates Rebekah’s House.

Did you know that many families are one step away from joining the homeless population? Families make up 40 percent of the homeless population. One of every four homeless people is a child. Rebekah’s House allows teenaged boys to stay with their family; it allows twoparent families with children to stay together.

Homelessness happens to so many people who thought it would never be them. A job loss, injury, natural disaster, health-care costs, insufficient employment all can push a family off into homelessness.

These families need our help. We can make a difference one family at a time. For more information on Rebekah’s House, call (228) 388-3061.

Cole Coe Brenda Whitwell

Financial Advisor 11 N. Water Street, Suite 16290 Mobile, AL 36602 251-470 2310 brenda.whitwell@morganstanley.com

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