Gulf Coast Woman

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    Women of Impact: Where sisterhood meets service

    Yolonda Fredericks Boone, president of the Gulf Coast Chapter of The Links Incorporated, shares insights about the organization’s mission and impact. WHAT IS YOUR ORGANIZATION’S PURPOSE? The Gulf Coast Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, is a part of a national organization of professional women committed to friendship and service. Our mission is to enrich, sustain […]

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    The May Day Project 2025

    Let’s break the silence on mental health May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so let’s resolve to break the silence and stigma. Let’s talk about our struggles without shame or fear. Let’s support and uplift those who are waging silent battles that leave them with invisible scars. “Mayday” is an internationally recognized call that indicates […]

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    What parents can do to stop bullying

    “Another teen suicide.” Too often those words are being posted or spoken. Nearly 30 percent of children in grades 6-12 have reported being bullied and increasingly bullying is leading to suicide.

    More than 70 percent of teachers and students have witnessed bullying according to “The Journal of the American Medical Association.” Females in high school, at 22 percent, are twice as likely as male high school students to report being cyberbullied. They also are more likely (22 percent) to report being bullied on school property.

    “Bullying can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation,” says Kay Daneault, executive director of the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. “Many young people struggle with low self-esteem and hopelessness due to relentless harassment. This makes intervention and support crucial. Bullying and suicide can be addressed through open conversations, mental health resources, and policies that protect young people.”

    Take Steps to Stop It

    As a parent, what can you do to help and protect your child? Mental Health America recommends these steps:

    Start early.

    Parent/child talks are essential. Teach kids to respect others before they start school and continue to talk about this topic on an ongoing basis. Even small acts of teasing should be stopped in their tracks. Don’t fail to correct this kind of behavior due to a child’s young age. This is exactly when to stop it.

    Teach your children how to be assertive.

    Encourage your children to express their feelings clearly, say no when they feel uncomfortable or pressured, stand up for themselves without fighting and walk away in dangerous situations.

    Stop bullying when you see it.

    Adults who remain silent when bullying occurs are encouraging it and making it worse.

    Listen and support children who speak up.

    Telling an adult about bullying is not easy for children. If a child comes to you seeking assistance with bullying, spend time listening to them and provide affirmation and support before taking actions. Read through and discuss our Bullying Checklist with your child as a resource.

    Recognize the signs of depression.

    Youth who experience persistent bullying can develop signs of depression like sadness, isolation, poor concentration and sleeping problems. These symptoms can affect their relationships and school performance. Many children do not recognize or speak up about their emotional needs. Make sure to reach out and get them help when you see these signs.

    Tell your children to take action when they see bullying behavior.

    Tell them to speak out against the bully and inform a teacher if the behavior doesn’t stop. Bullying continues only when we allow it to.

    Communicate clear policies and consequences.

    Bullying is less likely in schools where adults are involved and firm about stopping bullying behaviors. Send out a clear message at your school that bullying will have negative consequences.

    Team up.

    Work with your PTA or the local MHA affiliate (Mental Health Association of South Mississippi) to make sure that schools treat bullying as violence. Help them develop programs to prevent bullying and promote safe school environments.


    Recognize it

    Bullying is aggressive behavior. It occurs when a child is targeted by one or more youth with repeated negative actions over a period of time. These are intentional attempts to cause discomfort or injury and can include name-calling, obscene gesturing, malicious teasing, exclusion, threats, rumors, physical hitting, kicking, pushing and choking. Cyber-bullying is also a real and growing problem today.

    Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have serious, lasting problems.

    In order to be considered bullying, the behavior must be aggressive and include:

    • An Imbalance of power: Kids who bully use their power — such as physical strength, access to embarrassing information, or popularity — to control or harm others. Power imbalances can change over time and in different situations, even if they involve the same people.
    • Repetition: Bullying behaviors happen more than once or have the potential to happen more than once.

    Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose.

    Source: Stopbullying.gov

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    No, you’re not ‘crazy’: Breaking the stigma of mental health struggles

    By Natalie Moore

    Many people still suffer and struggle in silence with mental health challenges due to lingering stigma. They don’t want to be labeled as “weak” or “crazy,” so they often retreat, feeling lost and isolated.

    But the truth is mental health struggles are human, not a flaw. If you’re burdened with the weight of a condition like anxiety or depression, you are not alone; millions experience similar challenges.

    Here are some points to bear in mind:

    • Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
    • Recovery looks different for everyone.
    • Peer support offers non-judgmental understanding.
    • It’s okay to talk about what you’re going through.

    Natalie Moore is peer wellness services coordinator for the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. Reach her at NMoore@msmentalhealth.org.

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    Slowing down, but still moving forward

    Managing stress and anxiety in a fast-paced world

    By Mavis A. Creagh

    “I’m not doing well” was the phrase that kept popping into my head. I was in a state of constant “busyness” with little time to rest. Although the work was positive, I felt overwhelmed and stressed out.

    If this sounds familiar, here are some tips on how to slow down while still moving forward in your life and mental health journey.

    Reset boundaries:

    As a naturally caring and helpful person, I struggled with boundaries. This led to high stress levels and greater anxiety. Trying to please people cost me dearly, and sometimes even now, I must regroup.

    Set emotional goals:

    Determine what a healthy state looks like for you physically, mentally and emotionally — even write it down. If someone or something opposes the goals you’ve established, it’s time to reevaluate your role in the relationship.

    I know this can be difficult, but you get to decide how you engage and to what extent you allow situations to affect you.

    Allow time for breaks:

    My calendar was once so overloaded that I sometimes would forget to eat or take medicine. This is unhealthy and shows that I’d left no time in my schedule to breathe and evaluate my priorities. Remember that you are your most important asset, and you must take steps to ensure your wellbeing — even in a fast-paced world.

    Prioritize mental and emotional care:

    Therapy and counseling are important tools to help navigate and manage stressors. There is nothing wrong with seeking help, especially when you can’t process and cope on your own.

    Stop:

    Slow down long enough to process the past, present and future. This can be scary, especially if you have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect or are in an unhealthy situation.

    Set limits:

    Some stressor you can’t avoid, but others come from obligating yourself when you lack the physical or emotional capacity.

    ‘No’ is not a bad word:

    Saying “no” has caused me great anxiety at times. Practice saying it and get comfortable with relaying the message. My favorite way to turn things down lately is saying, “I don’t have the capacity.”

    Pursue happiness:

    Put yourself around people, places and things that bring you joy and fulfillment. Even when life is life-ing and trying to steal your smile, remember it’s not the end. There’s always something to get happy about. Even in the storm, you can still receive good things.

    Go with the flow:

    No matter what was happening, I decided to ride the waves and paddle with (not against) the stream. I chose not to drown, even when the storm was raging. Take the position of victory and of hope, even in a chaotic world.


    Mavis A. Creagh is an executive director, author, speaker, consultant, entrepreneurial strategist, columnist and online show host. She is the founder of Mavis A. Creagh Consulting LLC, Mavis on Main and We Women Ministries Inc. Reach her at maviscreaghmedia@gmail.com.

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    Navigating through uncertain times

    Are economic security and potential job loss concerns stressing you out? Here are some quick tips that can help you manage the uncertainty.

    Prioritize self-care

    Engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep, as these have a positive impact on mental health.

    Focus on what you can control

    During uncertain times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Focus on what you have control over, such as your daily routines and the steps you can take to improve your situation.

    Create a plan

    Develop a financial plan to manage stress and gain a sense of control. This could involve creating a budget, exploring options for debt consolidation, or researching government assistance programs.

    Build a support network

    Connect with friends, family, or online communities for emotional support. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

    Seek professional help

    If your mental health is significantly impacted, consider seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor. Therapy can provide tools for managing emotions and coping with challenging situations.

    Allow yourself to grieve

    Job loss can be a significant emotional experience. Allow yourself time to grieve and process your emotions, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support during this period.

    Reframe the job loss

    View job loss as an opportunity for reassessment and self-discovery. Use this time to explore new career paths, develop new skills, or focus on personal interests.


    988 Lifeline

    If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or others, or if you suspect someone is having suicidal ideation reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. The line is available 24 hours a day.

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    Spilling her secret: Camille Blankenship

    As social media coordinator for Singing River Health System, Camille Blankenship has spent the past two years creating engaging content that connects the Gulf Coast community to compassionate, high-quality care. When she’s not behind the screen, you can find her working out, taking long walks around downtown Ocean Springs (where she resides) or trying out the best local restaurants.

    Camille Blankenship

    Blankenship believes in keeping her beauty routine simple but effective — a mix of everyday essentials and little luxuries. Here are some of her must-haves:

    THE FOUNDATION THAT LASTS ALL DAY

    Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation is the perfect in-between of lightweight and buildable. This foundation evens out my skin without ever feeling cakey. It also lasts all day, which is a must for me.

    MY SIGNATURE SCENT

    Le Labo Santal 3 is the scent I always come back to. It’s warm, a little smoky and somehow fits every occasion.

    SPF THAT MAKES FOUNDATION OPTIONAL

    La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 is a daily essential for me. This lightweight tinted sunscreen protects my skin without feeling greasy; plus, it gives a subtle glow that makes skipping foundation easy on natural-face days.

    HYDRATION MADE EASY

    Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer is epitome of effortless hydration. It’s a toner and moisturizer in one, which makes my routine that much easier.

    HEALTHY HAIR STARTS AT THE SCALP

    I love Oribe’s whole line and have been using the Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for years. It keeps my scalp healthy while leaving my hair soft and refreshed.

    TANGLE-FREE, SHINY HAIR IN A SPRAY

    Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Leave-In Conditioner Spray is a must-have for effortless, tangle-free hair. It hydrates, smooths and adds shine — all without weighing my hair down.

    THE SECRET TO SMOOTH, GLOWY SKIN

    On nights I’m not using Tretinoin, Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10% is my go-to for keeping my skin smooth and glowing. It’s strong but gentle, and I always can tell a difference when I use it consistently.

    THE BRUSH THAT DOES IT ALL

    Denman D82M The Finisher is the perfect brush for smoothing and adding shine while being gentle on my scalp.

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    Meet the Coast’s Top Teachers 2025

    Everyone can name one — that teacher we fondly remember long after we’ve left her classroom. Exceptional educators see greatness in their students and draw it to the surface, challenging them, cheering them on and advocating for their success and wellbeing.

    Once again, we asked you, our audience, to name the standout teachers in South Mississippi, and we received hundreds of replies. All the nominees represent the best in their field — dedicated professionals who are shaping young minds and nurturing their unlimited potential.


    Thank you to our sponsor!


    Without further ado, join us in congratulating the Coast’s Top Teachers 2025:

    Crystal Leshore

    Gulfport Central Middle School

    What nominators say:

    • “She goes the extra mile. She loves every student like her own. She goes above and beyond.”
    • “Teaching is not just her job, it’s her passion, and nothing will stop her from achieving her goal.”

    Sofia Sabbatini Bourgeois

    West Wortham Elementary and Middle School

    What nominators say:

    • “Sofia supports all students with heart and skill — an exceptional, inclusive and inspiring teacher.”
    • “Sofia is a blessing! She puts her whole heart and soul into teaching these students. They adore her!”

    Meghan Adam

    South Hancock Elementary

    What nominators say:

    • “Meghan treats every child the same, like they are the most important person in the world.”
    • “Meghan has made a difference in a lot of children’s lives, and all of her students love her.”

    Jessica Monju

    Hancock Middle School

    What nominators say:

    • “Jessica is a wonderful teacher. She has an amazing rapport with her students and truly cares.”
    • “Mrs. Monju puts her students first! …”

    Candace Batiste

    Moss Point High School

    What nominators say:

    • “She is one of the most motivating teachers I know, always helping us find a way to make ourselves better.”
    • “Mrs. Batiste has a heart for teaching, coaching and giving back to those within the community.”

    Kenya Smith-Key

    Moss Point Career & Technical Education Center

    What nominators say:

    • “Mrs. Key leads with warmth and purpose — training tomorrow’s educators today!”
    • “She is one of the most inspiring women I have ever met. She is truly an amazing person!”

    Samantha Earls

    St. Martin East Elementary

    What nominators say:

    • “You can tell she loves her students and her job, and those students LOVE HER!”
    • “She goes to work every day and gives it her all. She makes teaching fun. She’s a beautiful soul!”

    Kelli Santos

    West Harrison High School

    What nominators say:

    • “Mrs. Santos treats the students as their own, and you can see she loves her job as an educator.”
    • “She gives all she has to make sure her students know they are supported and that someone cares.”

    Christy Ball

    Singing River Academy

    What nominators say:

    • “Christy Ball inspires students with love, creativity and belief in their limitless potential.”
    • “Christy is an amazing person. She inspires her students with love and understanding.”

    Sharlene Rivera

    Arlington Elementary School

    What nominators say:

    • “(She) builds strong relationships, motivates students to do their best and helps them grow in confidence.”
    • “She is a devoted teacher that works with children with autism. (She) cares for her students in every way.”

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    Women of Impact: More than a pageant — a global movement

    Ms. Senior World redefines what it means to age with confidence

    According to CEO Sherry Strother, Ms. Senior World was created to celebrate the beauty, grace and achievements of women over 50. The organization, she adds, is about more than pageantry; it’s a global movement that lets senior women shine, inspire and connect.

    “Our mission is to break stereotypes surrounding age, uplift women’s voices and provide a platform for confidence, sisterhood and purpose,” Strother says.

    Here, she shares more about how Ms. Senior World lets women showcase their talents, share their stories and prove that beauty and influence have no age limit.

    HOW AND WHY WAS MS. SENIOR WORLD CREATED? HOW HAS IT GROWN?

    “Ms. Senior World was born from a passion to create a positive, empowering space for senior women. Seeing a gap in representation for women over 50, I envisioned a pageant that not only celebrates beauty, but also wisdom, resilience and community impact.

    Since its inception, Ms. Senior World has grown into an international platform, attracting delegates from across the U.S. and around the world. What started as a competition has evolved into a sisterhood that empowers and inspires through pageantry, philanthropy and personal growth.”

    Homes for Our Troops Recipient SSgt Johnny Morris and family with 2024 Ms. Senior World Queens

    HOW MANY MEMBERS DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION HAVE? WHO ARE YOUR TYPICAL MEMBERS?

    “Ms. Senior World operates with a dedicated team of 14 staff members and a rotating network of delegates, ambassadors and volunteers who help drive our mission forward.

    Our participants are women aged 50 to 79 from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for community service, personal growth and challenging the narrative about aging. This is not just a competition; it’s a movement that welcomes every woman who wants to step into her power and inspire others.”

    2025 Ms. Senior World 50s Whitney Allen Carr and Korean War veteran Virgil Hightower

    WHAT’S NEW AND EXCITING WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION?

    “We are excited to announce the launch of our Ms. Senior World Cares, a philanthropic expansion of Ms. Senior World focused on giving back to the communities we serve. This initiative allows our delegates and titleholders to lead charitable efforts for veterans, underserved communities and senior advocacy programs.

    Additionally, our biggest event of the year, the Ms. Senior World Pageant, takes place Nov. 11-15, in Biloxi. This highly anticipated week is filled with empowerment, elegance and celebration, culminating in the crowning of our new Ms. Senior World Queens in the 50s, 60s, and 70s categories.”

    2024 Ms. Senior World 70s Christiane Bergheim and Ernie

    HOW IS YOUR ORGANIZATION HAVING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY?

    “Through our delegates and alumni, we have seen countless acts of community service, mentorship and advocacy.

    With Ms. Senior World Cares, we are:

    • Supporting veterans by providing resources and recognition.
    • Empowering underserved communities through mentorship and outreach.
    • Championing senior advocacy by giving women a platform to share their wisdom and leadership.

    Our delegates don’t just compete; they inspire action, uplift others and create lasting change. Delegates spend the months before the pageant engaged in their communities, using their platforms to champion causes close to their hearts — whether it’s advocating for senior wellness, supporting veterans, mentoring younger generations or leading philanthropic initiatives. Their impact doesn’t stop after pageant week; as titleholders and ambassadors, they continue to serve, inspire and uplift others.”

    HOW DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION EMPOWER OR SERVE WOMEN?

    “Ms. Senior World is a powerful experience that helps women reclaim their confidence, form lifelong friendships and amplify their voices. We serve and empower senior women by boosting confidence, creating a global sisterhood and providing a platform. Many delegates share that this experience reignites their self-esteem, style and presence. Women from all over the world unite, forming unbreakable bonds and lifelong friendships. Delegates share their personal missions, causes and community work, bringing attention to important issues.

    Unlike traditional pageants, we do not have a talent category because we believe that every woman has already proven her talent through the life she has built and the impact she has made.”

    WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST THING YOU HAVE LEARNED OR GAINED PERSONALLY FROM MS. SENIOR WORLD?

    “The greatest thing I’ve gained is witnessing the transformative power of community and sisterhood. I always knew that women over 50 were extraordinary, but seeing them come together — lifting each other up, forming lifelong friendships and stepping into new levels of confidence — has been inspiring.

    This pageant is more than a competition; it’s a catalyst for personal growth, and I am honored to watch women rediscover their strength, purpose and joy. Ms. Senior World has reaffirmed that women over 50 are just getting started, and with the right platform, they can leave an extraordinary legacy.

    2023 Ms. Senior World 50s Kelli Jarman

    WHAT ARE MS. SENIOR WORLD’S GOALS OR HOPES GOING FORWARD?

    “Our biggest goal is to expand Ms. Senior World’s reach and impact. We want to increase global participation, bring in more women from diverse backgrounds, strengthen our philanthropic efforts, amplify our voice in media so that more women know they have a space here and host larger, more immersive events. Ms. Senior World isn’t slowing down; it’s growing into a force that will continue to change lives.”

    Ms. Senior World isn’t slowing down; it’s growing into a force that will continue to change lives.”

    2021 Ms Senior World Leadership, Renee Adcock with Mississippi Governor, Tate Reeves

    WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANIZATION DO WELL, AND WHAT IS IT SEEKING TO IMPROVE?

    “We have created a life-changing experience for women over 50 that fosters an inclusive and supportive community that provides a global platform for women to be seen and celebrated.

    We are growing in the areas of awareness, as many women still don’t know Ms. Senior World exists! We look to expand our impact on larger-scale community projects and to bring in more partners who share our goal of aiming to create more opportunities for delegates and titleholders.

    WHAT ELSE SHOULD OUR AUDIENCE KNOW ABOUT MS. SENIOR WORLD?

    “Whether a woman has been a pageant queen before or is a first-timer stepping into the spotlight, Ms. Senior World welcomes her. Applications are open now for the 2025 pageant. If you or someone you know deserves to be celebrated, make new friendships and create a legacy, now is the time! Join us and become part of something extraordinary! Visit seniorworldpageants.com to learn more, offer support and apply.”

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