Living Large
Locals in the Limelight
A happy tribute to the late Tommy Longo, long-time mayor of Waveland - see details below. (Photo courtesy Hancock Chamber)
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Living Large features locals in the limelight – both businesses and individuals. We update this page as we ferret out stories, so check back often! The latest stories will be at the top. Have a Living Large candidate for us? Email us the info or link to the story! |
Living Large
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Carroll House Named One of Mississippi's "Ten Best"
Tommy Longo Memorial Projects Dedicated
These tributes commemorate his dedication and importance to the coastal community.
First, a pair of pergolas were erected and trees planted at the Ground Zero Museum. Second, another pergola and planter boxes were constructed at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Bay St. Louis where his wife teaches. Hancock C of C Celebrates 94 Years
Homegrown Literary Festival Makes the News
November 2019Last week Steve Barney, president of The Arts, Hancock County, appeared on WLOX-TV to promote the upcoming Homegrown Literary and Arts Exchange November 22-23. View the clip here. And find a complete schedule of the Literary and Arts Exchange on our Upcoming Events page.
Jack Schornick honored as Knight of the Year
Gulf Coast artist Ruth Miller featured in Oxford American
Becky Allen Farrell Named Entrepreneur of the Year
Founded in 1956, the organization's mission is to unite professional women, support business and community relationships, and provide leadership skills and networking opportunities. Find out more on their website.
Amy Monti Corr honored as Women of Achievement Finalist
BSL Rotary earns citation from Rotary International
Bay-Waveland School District earns 'A' rating
Barre workout comes to 100 Men Hall
Brandi Stage in National Spotlight
National Fest Names Tami Curtis 2019 Poster Artist
Curtis's work can be found in Century Hall (112 S. Second Street) in Bay St. Louis. She also maintains a studio in Century Hall where she gives group art lessons. Contact her for details.
Local Author's New Manuscript Finalist in International Competition
Ruth’s Roots receives grant from Coast Electric Community Trust
Artist Mitchell Gaudet creates playful "Welcome" for new Louisiana Children's Museum
Hancock Chamber members vote Nikki Moon "Citizen of the Year"
Hancock Resource Center receives Community Award of Excellence
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August 2019 The Hancock Resource Center will receive the 2019 Community Award of Excellence from the the Hancock County Community Development Foundation.
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HRC president Rhonda Rhodes and Board president Kelsey Johnson will accept the award on behalf of the center at the Hancock Chamber’s Annual Gala August 8, along with the Top 10 Outstanding Citizens and Industrial Award of Excellence recipient.
100 Men Hall named one of Gulf Coast's best live music venues
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August 2019BSL's 100 Men D.B.A. Hall was recently named one of the Gulf Coast's best live music venues in the SunHerald's annual People's Choice Awards.
40,746 nominations were submitted, and 283,056 votes were cast to determine the 468 winners. Other winners in this category were Glory Bound Gyro Co. and Government Street Grocery, both in Ocean Springs. Congratulations to Rachel Dangermond and the staff at the 100 Men Hall! |
M.A.P. - Music. Arts. Practicality. - receives Mississippi Arts Commission grant
July 2019
M.A.P. - Music. Arts. Practicality. of Hancock County, MS - has been awarded a $3,900 grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC). This grant will be used to produce the children’s play Disney's Frozen, Jr. The grants are made possible by funding from the Mississippi State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.
“The Mississippi Arts Commission is proud to support arts organizations as well as arts activities and festivals around the state through grant-making,” said Malcolm White, executive director of MAC. “These funds help broaden the reach of arts by educating our communities about Mississippi’s enduring creative legacy and offering arts experiences and performances to people in nearly every area of the state.”
“The Mississippi Arts Commission is proud to support arts organizations as well as arts activities and festivals around the state through grant-making,” said Malcolm White, executive director of MAC. “These funds help broaden the reach of arts by educating our communities about Mississippi’s enduring creative legacy and offering arts experiences and performances to people in nearly every area of the state.”
New article lists "27 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Bay St. Louis"
The Angel Tree on Beach Boulevard is just one of the 27 reasons to visit BSL, according to this article. Photo by Ellis Anderson.
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July 2019The Travel section of the "Just Short of Crazy" online newsletter features an article highlighting all the great things to see and do in Bay St. Louis and Waveland. From lodging, to museums, to restaurants and cool festivals, we'll bet that even locals haven't seen and done all the cool stuff listed in this long and flattering travelogue! Read the full article here.
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Janice Guido New Tourism / Chamber Liaison
Chamber president Nikki Moon and new Ex-Officio board member Janice Guido.
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July 2019Janice Guido, owner of Bay Life Gifts in Century Hall was recently named the Hancock Chamber’s new Ex-Officio and representative to Hancock County Tourism.
Janice has decades of experience in the New Orleans hotel, hospitality and tourism industry and will act as Chamber/Tourism liaison. |
"Janice and I worked together for thirty years promoting New Orleans as a destination," said Nikki Moon, chamber president. "Now we are partnering again promoting our beautiful coast. This is going to be fun!"
BSL included in Trivago Magazine's "7 Beach Getaways"
Carroll House B&B
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July 2019
Author Debra Kamin included Bay St. Louis in her recent article, "7 Beach Getaways Where You Wouldn't Expect To Find Them." The article reads: "For sun-seeking travelers who are savvy, there are still plenty of hidden beach towns across the nation that remain refreshingly off the grid. " Specifically mentioned in the article was Shoofly sponsor, Carroll House B&B. Read the full article here.
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Blog lauds "10 Reasons to Visit Coastal Mississippi,
Part II"
Several BSL locations are mentioned in the article, including the Mockingbird Cafe.
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July 2019Sheree Frede, author of the blog "The She She Show," recently concluded her visit to coastal Mississippi with visits to Long Beach, Gulfport and our own Bay St. Louis and Waveland. As part of her visit, she featured four Shoofly Magazine sponsors - Bay Town Inn, Smith & Lens Gallery, the Mockingbird Cafe and the 100 Men D.B.A. Hall. Part of her Gulfport tour featured a BBQ tasting at Murky Waters BBQ with beers from Lazy Magnolia Brewing in Kiln. Read the full article here.
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Crystal Stretching Recognized With Writing Honor
Crystal Stretching
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July 2019BSL resident Crystal Stretching recently received honors from the 2019 National Native Media Awards. “Through Her Daughter's Eyes," an article she wrote about her mother's journey from the Navajo Reservation to Bay St. Louis, received Second Place for Best Feature Story. Congratulations, Crystal!
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Bay St. Louis Named "Best Hidden Gem"
Local potter and The Arts Hancock County president, Steve Barney, gives youths a chance to try their hand at pottery during the 2019 Arts Alive event. Photo by Ellis Anderson.
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July 2019Here's what Yahoo News had to say about "The Bay" in their July 15 story titled "Discover the Best Hidden Gem Destinations in Every State:"
"There’s St. Louis, and then there’s Bay St. Louis, which dubs itself “a place apart.” Here, beach life collides with folk art. Catch the Arts Alive event in March, when dozens of artists’ studios collide for a community-enriching arts festival that features local works, live music, theater, literature and lots of food." |
Five Hancock County women named "Top Influencers"
July 2019
Five Hancock County women are among 36 recognized recently as the region's "Top Influencers" by the Success Women's Conference.
Hancock women Ellis Anderson, Starr Chapman, Cynthia Chauvin, Nancy Depreo and Becky Allen Farrell all were included in the list, which calls the Influencers "true 'game-changers' who have made an impact through their talent and selfless dedication" and have had a "formative impact on their communities."
Hancock women Ellis Anderson, Starr Chapman, Cynthia Chauvin, Nancy Depreo and Becky Allen Farrell all were included in the list, which calls the Influencers "true 'game-changers' who have made an impact through their talent and selfless dedication" and have had a "formative impact on their communities."
All 36 women will be recognized for their achievements at the Success Women's Conference, which will be held Sept. 20 at the MS Gulf Coast Convention Center.
More information about the event can be found at www.successconference.info.
More information about the event can be found at www.successconference.info.
Artist Creating Photographic Community "Quilt"
Mark Geil
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July 2019Mark Geil, a photography professor at Jackson State University is creating a 360-degree photographic project using videos to explore the stories and histories of Hancock County. The residency is a project of the Center for Art and Public Exchange, an initiative of the Mississippi Museum of Art.
Hancock County is one of only three counties in Mississippi chosen for residency projects this year (along with Lafayette and Utica). |
The completed project will first shown at viewing parties (the first occurring at the inaugural "Homegrown" Literary & Art Exchange being held in Hancock County, November 21 - 23, 2019. Stay tuned to The Shoofly Magazine's Upcoming Events page for more details as they become available!
Rum Kitchen Clinches the 2019 Restaurant Neighbor Award
Starr Chapman, partner, Rum Kitchen
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July 2019John and Starr Chapman of Waveland's Rum Kitchen have been named as the state winners of the 2019 Restaurant Neighbor Award. The award is given for outstanding community service. The Chapmans were selected for starting the Hemingway Festival, which benefits the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum.
Read our Talk of the Town story for more information about the Hemingway Fest, coming up July 19 - 20. |
Diamondhead golf tourney raises money for veterans
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July 2019In 2018, the Diamondhead Marine Corps League 1454 partnered with the Diamondhead Golf Club in order to establish a fundraiser that would support Mississippi Gulf Coast veterans in need of financial support. The Marine Corps League and the Diamondhead Golf Club raised $12,000 during its first year, with all funds going to approximately 14 veteran families in need. During the 2019 event in June the tournament successfully raised $22,000, which will all be used to support pending cases of veterans in need of financial assistance.
If you know of a veteran in need of assistance, please contact Darryl Davis at [email protected], or Craig Harvey at [email protected]. |
Anonymous donor funds 7th Street park improvements in BSL
Hancock Community Development Foundation Chairman Angie Kothman, Vice Chairman John Wiebmer and Executive Director Tish Williams present a check to Hancock County Supervisor Scotty Adam and the Bay St. Louis City Council. This anonymous donation will support improvements for 7th Street Park. Photo courtesy of Anne Pitre/Hancock Chamber of Commerce.
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June 2019 The Hancock County Community Development Foundation presented a check recently to the City of Bay St. Louis.
The anonymous donation in the amount of $23,010.76 was made to support the City of Bay St. Louis’ joint efforts with Hancock County to make improvements to the 7th Street Park, which includes upgrades to the equipment and seating to ensure they are ADA compliant. |
Bay police officers honored for rescuing baby
Bay St. Louis Police Detective James Sanchez (left) and Officer Bailey Ordoyne (right) were honored for their efforts last year to rescue a 15-month-old girl who had fallen in a bayou. Photo courtesy Sea Coast Echo.
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June 2019 Officer Bailey Ordoyne and Detective James Sanchez of the Bay St. Louis Police Department were honored Tuesday at the Bay St. Louis City Council meeting for their efforts three days before Christmas last year to rescue then-15-month-old Harleigh Spain. Read the full story here.
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Local Restaurants Featured as "Foodie Finds"
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June 2019In a recent feature titled, "6 Foodie Finds Along The Mississippi Gulf Coast," five of the six restaurants featured are located in Hancock County. The "foodie finds" are the Mockingbird Café, Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar and Grill, and 200 North Beach in Old Town Bay St. Louis.
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Casino restaurants highlighted are the Silver Slipper's Jubilee Buffet and Bogart's at Hollywood Casino. In Kiln, the Jet Away Café at Stennis Airport and the Jordan River Steamer earned kudos.
Four Hancock Women Featured in Inspirational Book
Clock
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June 2019
In this new book, twenty-five Gulf Coast women share their inspirational stories about how they stopped being boxed in by the expectations of others to become Gulf Coast leaders. Writers include Hancock County’s own Holly Hester Lemoine-Raymond, Angelyn Scardino Treutel Zeringue, Brandi Stage, and Ellis Anderson.
Click here to read more about the book, "Unboxed." |
Randy Ponder to be inducted into MPA Hall of Fame
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June 2019The Sea Coast Echo's former publisher James R. "Randy" Ponder will be inducted into the Mississippi Press Association (MPA) Hall of Fame later this month. Ponder, 65, will be inducted June 21 during the Association's 153rd Annual Convention at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino in Biloxi. Read more here.
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House Beautiful Chooses Antique Maison
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June 2019Ed and Sylvia Young's Antique Maison is only 12 years old, yet it has caught the eye and earned the respect of the prestigious House Beautiful magazine, which recently named it one of the top places in the entire country to shop for architectural salvage items. Click here to read more about Antique Maison in this Shoofly Magazine piece and click here to find them on the House Beautiful site.
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Shoofly Sponsor Wins Second Place in 2019 IndieReader Discovery Awards
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June 2019Cultured Oak Press’ recent book, A Lyle Saxon Reader: Lost Stories of the French Quarter and Buried Treasure, has won second place in the 2019 IndieReader Discovery Awards (IRDA) in the Fiction category. Read more about the award here and more about Warner and the Cultured Oak Press in this Shoofly Sponsor Spotlight.
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Bay High's Cameron Adams Earns Full-Ride to Yale.
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June 2019Bay High’s 2019 Valedictorian, Cameron Adams, is off to New Haven, Connecticut in the fall to attend Yale University. Adams is a talented musician and filmmaker and plans to study both at the Ivy League school where he has earned a Yale Scholarship of over $75,000 per year. Click here to watch his award-winning short film, Inside the Walls.
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Rum Kitchen Wins 2019 National Restaurant Association State Education Award
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June 2019The Rum Kitchen won the 2019 National Restaurant Association State Education Award for its work with the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum’s Hemingway Festival. The Hemingway Festival is in its third year with its Patron’s Party; Family Day; and new this year, a Literary contest that benefits Hancock County high school students. Tickets to the Hemingway Festival are available on the Museum’s website.
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Nominees for 2019 Businesses of the Year and Outstanding Citizens Announced
June 2019
Businesses of the Year and Outstanding Citizens are recognized annually at the Hancock Chamber’s Annual Salute to Business & Industry Awards Gala.
See below for the 2019 nominees. The Shoofly Magazine offers congratulations to them all for helping make this community a better place to live and work.
See below for the 2019 nominees. The Shoofly Magazine offers congratulations to them all for helping make this community a better place to live and work.
NOMINEES FOR BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Bay St. Louis
Diamondhead
Waveland
Kiln/Hancock County
- Advantage Title, LLC | Owner: Perre Cabell
- Bay Pool Company | Owners: Adam and Whitney Landrum
- Creole Creamery/PJ’s Coffee | Owner: Jim McPhaille
- Fassbender Insurance Agency | Owner: Bryan Fassbender
- Renewing Touch Therapies and Spa | Owner: Rachel Bidwell
- The French Potager | Owner: Martha Whitney Butler
Diamondhead
- Casano Law Firm | Owner: Michael Casan
- Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty of Diamondhead & Bay St. Louis | Broker: Jackie Miller
- Giving Tree Senior Care Options | Owner: Angelique Knoblock
- Gabo’s Boutique & Gifts | Owner: Kelly Stephens
- Tiki Delivery | Owner: Anthony Depreo
Waveland
- Gulf Coast Campers | Owner: Kristine Lyons
- Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi | President & CEO: Richmond Vincent
- Pearl River Community College Hancock Center | President: Dr. Adam Breerwood
Kiln/Hancock County
- Farm Bureau Insurance | Agency Manager: Marcus Ladner
- Necaise & Company | Owner: Ty Necaise
- The Broke Spoke | Owners: Stevie & Mabel Haas
2019 OUTSTANDING CITIZENS
On the evening of the gala, one will be named Citizen of the Year
Chris Cochran
Chris Cochran, owner of S&L Office Supplies, is a strong believer in doing his part to improve quality of life in Hancock County. Chris has served two years as a Rotary board member and is currently on the board of the Hancock Chamber. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, he leads his employees by modeling an exemplary work ethic. Through his business, Chris donates printing to various organizations and supports CASA with “Carts4Kids,” which funds school supplies for underprivileged children. He participates in many Rotary and Chamber functions, including a new affinity program that supports the work of the small business community.
Chris Cochran, owner of S&L Office Supplies, is a strong believer in doing his part to improve quality of life in Hancock County. Chris has served two years as a Rotary board member and is currently on the board of the Hancock Chamber. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, he leads his employees by modeling an exemplary work ethic. Through his business, Chris donates printing to various organizations and supports CASA with “Carts4Kids,” which funds school supplies for underprivileged children. He participates in many Rotary and Chamber functions, including a new affinity program that supports the work of the small business community.
Jason Edwards
As Pastor of the Diamondhead Community Church, Rev. Jason Edwards impacts the lives of many residents on a daily basis. He is a husband and father as well as a church leader who provides spiritual guidance to those in need. He helps with the sick, youth, the grieving and poor. He is always ready to serve, sometimes without even being asked, and provides counseling for whatever the need may be. He leads numerous youth programs supporting and encouraging our youth. A true community leader, he builds harmony and fellowship with his daily actions.
As Pastor of the Diamondhead Community Church, Rev. Jason Edwards impacts the lives of many residents on a daily basis. He is a husband and father as well as a church leader who provides spiritual guidance to those in need. He helps with the sick, youth, the grieving and poor. He is always ready to serve, sometimes without even being asked, and provides counseling for whatever the need may be. He leads numerous youth programs supporting and encouraging our youth. A true community leader, he builds harmony and fellowship with his daily actions.
David Hilbert
David Hilbert has served on the Hancock County Tourism Bureau board for six terms. In 2017 and 2018, he helped lead the efforts to continue funding and complete the transition of the Bureau in to the new Costal Mississippi three county tourism bureau. He is a member of the board for Rotary and is a member of the Waveland Civic Association, serving as their Grand Marshal in 2018. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, he has volunteered with various civic associations and festivals to promote tourism. For the past 12 years, he has served as marketing manager at the Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel.
David Hilbert has served on the Hancock County Tourism Bureau board for six terms. In 2017 and 2018, he helped lead the efforts to continue funding and complete the transition of the Bureau in to the new Costal Mississippi three county tourism bureau. He is a member of the board for Rotary and is a member of the Waveland Civic Association, serving as their Grand Marshal in 2018. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, he has volunteered with various civic associations and festivals to promote tourism. For the past 12 years, he has served as marketing manager at the Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel.
Ann Madden
Ann, a professional photographer, is co-owner with Sandy Maggio of Smith & Lens, a creative hub in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Ann and Sandy have been instrumental in creating new events for the Bay. Dolly Should and Frida Fest draw spectators and participants from the entire region, who come to the celebrations and leave with a real appreciation of the community. She has been on the board of the Old Town Merchants Association and the Bay Ratz Marching Battery, and is active with The Arts, Hancock County. By creating and contributing to events and the arts, Ann is creating an even more inviting city.
Ann, a professional photographer, is co-owner with Sandy Maggio of Smith & Lens, a creative hub in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Ann and Sandy have been instrumental in creating new events for the Bay. Dolly Should and Frida Fest draw spectators and participants from the entire region, who come to the celebrations and leave with a real appreciation of the community. She has been on the board of the Old Town Merchants Association and the Bay Ratz Marching Battery, and is active with The Arts, Hancock County. By creating and contributing to events and the arts, Ann is creating an even more inviting city.
Alan E. Hodges
Alan Hodges is the Chief Executive Officer at Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock. He has more than 32 years of healthcare experience, most recently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Ochsner Health System-Northshore Region. He serves on the Hancock Chamber board and is a member of Rotary Club, Gulf Coast Business Council, Partners for Stennis & Michoud, the Mississippi Hospital Association Medicaid Advisory Committee and the American College of Healthcare Executives. He is a graduate of Leadership Hancock, and his experience and leadership were vital to the successful transition of Hancock Medical to an Ochsner Health System facility.
Alan Hodges is the Chief Executive Officer at Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock. He has more than 32 years of healthcare experience, most recently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Ochsner Health System-Northshore Region. He serves on the Hancock Chamber board and is a member of Rotary Club, Gulf Coast Business Council, Partners for Stennis & Michoud, the Mississippi Hospital Association Medicaid Advisory Committee and the American College of Healthcare Executives. He is a graduate of Leadership Hancock, and his experience and leadership were vital to the successful transition of Hancock Medical to an Ochsner Health System facility.
Nikki Moon
A graduate of Leadership Hancock, Nikki Moon is a recognized visionary leader at the local and regional level. After Katrina, she rebuilt Bay Town Inn, which has been a catalyst for driving visitors to the Old Town area. As goodwill ambassador for the Coast, she has hosted corporate executives and travel writers from across the globe, resulting in new investments and priceless publicity fueling area businesses. An advocate for small businesses and downtown development, she is the current President of the Hancock Chamber and has served on the boards of the Old Town Merchants Association, the Krewe of the Mystic Seahorse, the Library Foundation, Hancock County Tourism and is the incoming Chair of the Coastal Mississippi Board of Commissioners.
A graduate of Leadership Hancock, Nikki Moon is a recognized visionary leader at the local and regional level. After Katrina, she rebuilt Bay Town Inn, which has been a catalyst for driving visitors to the Old Town area. As goodwill ambassador for the Coast, she has hosted corporate executives and travel writers from across the globe, resulting in new investments and priceless publicity fueling area businesses. An advocate for small businesses and downtown development, she is the current President of the Hancock Chamber and has served on the boards of the Old Town Merchants Association, the Krewe of the Mystic Seahorse, the Library Foundation, Hancock County Tourism and is the incoming Chair of the Coastal Mississippi Board of Commissioners.
Tami Munsch
Raised in the Kiln community, Tami Munsch returned to Hancock County after practicing law in Jackson for eight years. Tami is actively involved in the community as President of the Rotary Club. She is a member and Past President of the Mississippi Women Lawyers’ Association and serves on the boards of the Mississippi Talent Education, HYPE, Ruth’s Roots, and is President Elect of the Hancock County Library Foundation. She has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Hancock and Harrison County. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, she was named a Leader in the Law and Top 50 under 40 by the Mississippi Business Journal.
Raised in the Kiln community, Tami Munsch returned to Hancock County after practicing law in Jackson for eight years. Tami is actively involved in the community as President of the Rotary Club. She is a member and Past President of the Mississippi Women Lawyers’ Association and serves on the boards of the Mississippi Talent Education, HYPE, Ruth’s Roots, and is President Elect of the Hancock County Library Foundation. She has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Hancock and Harrison County. A graduate of Leadership Hancock, she was named a Leader in the Law and Top 50 under 40 by the Mississippi Business Journal.
Sarge Washington
Sarge Washington was carrying on a family tradition when he built a bus stop in Waveland on family property at the corner of Herlihy and Hart. His mission: to provide a safe place for school children. The new facility was dedicated in memory of his father, Charlie, who helped build the original bus stop in the 1980s, and in honor of his mother, Earllean, who asked that it be rebuilt. The community project was funded by Sarge and his wife, Rebecca. Waveland Mayor Mike Smith calls Sarge “a great young man who has been following in his dad’s footsteps of caring for his community.
Sarge Washington was carrying on a family tradition when he built a bus stop in Waveland on family property at the corner of Herlihy and Hart. His mission: to provide a safe place for school children. The new facility was dedicated in memory of his father, Charlie, who helped build the original bus stop in the 1980s, and in honor of his mother, Earllean, who asked that it be rebuilt. The community project was funded by Sarge and his wife, Rebecca. Waveland Mayor Mike Smith calls Sarge “a great young man who has been following in his dad’s footsteps of caring for his community.
Karen West
Karen West’s boundless enthusiasm for costumes is matched by a willingness to volunteer her time and talent to help just about any community organization in town. She started out volunteering with Friends of the Animal Shelter, St. Rose de Lima and the Historical Society and has since joined in to help The Arts, Hancock County, CASA’s gala and the Raw Oyster Marching Club. She got the Witches Walk Halloween fundraiser off to a roaring start and recently was among the volunteers who spear-headed the Cinco De Mayo meal for Kings Kitchen. Karen is a true ambassador for Hancock County helping those in need.
Karen West’s boundless enthusiasm for costumes is matched by a willingness to volunteer her time and talent to help just about any community organization in town. She started out volunteering with Friends of the Animal Shelter, St. Rose de Lima and the Historical Society and has since joined in to help The Arts, Hancock County, CASA’s gala and the Raw Oyster Marching Club. She got the Witches Walk Halloween fundraiser off to a roaring start and recently was among the volunteers who spear-headed the Cinco De Mayo meal for Kings Kitchen. Karen is a true ambassador for Hancock County helping those in need.
14-Year-Old Ava Madden Featured in Online "Sun Herald"
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June 2019Adding her voice to the debate over Mississippi's state flag with its Confederate battle emblem in one corner - the last state flag to include the Rebel banner - 14-year-old Ava Madden argues that a different flag would be more welcoming and inclusive. See the video here.
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OLA Students Earn Elite Academic Scholarships
June 2019
Our Lady Academy recognized students who earned individual scholarships for their academic excellence and outstanding leadership at the school’s annual Award Ceremony on May 17, 2019: Madelyn Prendergast and Sophie Timmons, Mary Patricia Schmidt awards; Caroline Dufrene and Anastasia Nguyen, Alice Benvenutti awards; Emily Kothma, the Schoen Heier Bonura Scholarship; Abigail McGehee, the Marie L. Powers Scholarship; Allison Lyons and Macy Pigott, St. Michael’s Book awards; Sophia Compretta, Elizabeth Elkins, Alma Hearin, Paige Palazzo, and Savannah Templeton, Furman Scholars; Caroline Maillho and Caroline Schafer, Woodman Life awards; and Savannah Templeton, National Honorable Mention & Affiliated Award from the National Center for Women and Information Technology.
Hancock County CASA Director Wins National Award
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June 2019Cynthia Chauvin, Hancock County CASA director, received the prestigious National CASA Association 2019 Kappa Alpha Theta Professional Director of the Year Award at the National Conference in Atlanta earlier this month. Click here to watch local associates of CASA commend Chauvin for her leadership, compassion, and hard work on behalf of Hancock County children.
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Bay St. Louis Voted #5 in Best Coastal Small Towns in "USA Today"
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May 2019Bay St. Louis came in fifth in a USA Today Readers' Choice contest for Best Coastal Small Towns. Contenders had populations under 25,000 as of the last census. Criteria for the 20 nominees presented by USA Today included "uncrowded, unpretentious and affordable seaside fun in small packages that prove bigger isn't always better." Other winners were Gulf Shores, AL (#6) and St. Simons Island, GA (#8). See all the results here.
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Prestigious National Award Goes to Stennis
May 2019
An integrated test team received a prestigious National Achievement Award for a historic series of AR-22 rocket engine tests performed at NASA’s John C. Stennis Space Center. The steps bring us one step closer to returning astronauts to the Moon. Photo courtesy of NASA
Bay Town Inn and Mockingbird Make the Houstonia
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May 2019An Houstonia staff writer is charmed by the beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, recommending both the Bay Town Inn and the Mockingbird as unexpected treasures.
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Starfish Café Featured in Verve
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May 2019In its "Inspiration and Vision" column, Verve features a glowing profile of Starfish Café, 211 Main Street, emphasizing its food; its inspiring owner, Di Fillhart; the community-building aspects of the Café; and its unique non-profit restauranteur training mission.
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Tami Curtis Guy's Art Commemorates Aretha Franklin
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May 2019Tami Curtis Guy completed her epic Miss Aretha Franklin poster image for the Big LLou’s Big Blues Hall Of Fame Tribute Jam and fundraiser in Memphis, Tennessee. The original painting is in Guy's top floor gallery of The Shops at Century Hall, 112 S. Second Street, as well as three sizes of matted prints. More of Guy's art can be seen here.
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MarketWatch Recommends BSL for Affordable Retirement
May 2019
MarketWatch draws upon articles in both Coastal Living and Travel + Leisure magazines to recommend Bay St. Louis as a better retirement buy than many Florida beach towns. MarketWatch considered the overall cost of living, housing costs, and availability of "things to do" in beach towns across America.
Kevin Estrade and Bernie Cullen Win One Coast Awards
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May 2019Kevin Estrade and Bernie Cullen walked away with 2019 One Coast Awards at the recent awards ceremony - Estrade with a Top 10 Under 40 award and Bernie Cullen with a Community Leader award. Estrade is community development officer for the West Region of Keesler Federal Credit Union.Read more about Bernie Cullen, volunteer extraordinaire in this Shoofly Magazine Good Neighbor story.
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BSL Food Culture Explored in Travel Awaits Blog
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May 2019Several local favorite eateries are celebrated in Travel Awaits, including Bogarts at Hollywood Casino, Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar and Grill, Mockingbird Café, and 200 North Beach. The blog recommends BSL as a place to "visit, admire, and become inspired."
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Rebekah E. Wilke Wins Prestigious Tech Award
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April 2019Rebekah E. Wilke won a prestigious LookFar Ada Lovelace Award celebrating Women in Tech in New Orleans during Entrepreneur Week. Wilke serves as director of business enablement strategy for Swimlane. In previous roles—including her tenure with the U.S. Army and Raytheon Cyber Services—Wilke led teams of analysts, engineers, incident responders and managers to secure some of the most high-profile networks in the public and private sectors.
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Hancock Chamber Recognizes Seniors
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April 2019To kick off the local high school graduating countdown, on April 9th, the Hancock Chamber Education Committee hosted 500 graduating seniors for breakfast at the Bay St. Louis Community Center. As part of the annual event, local elected officials were also on hand to congratulate the students.
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BSL Volunteers Make A Difference in Belize
Volunteer Jenny Bell reads to children in Belize as part of the Dos Amigos program
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April 2019Six volunteers from Bay St. Louis will travel to Belize this month as part of a 30-year-old program, Dos Amigos. The Bay St. Louis Rotary club helped fund the mission trip that offers medical and dental support each year to 1200 - 1500 people who live in remote villages and don't have access to medical/dental care.
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Bay St. Louis is represented each year on the trip. This year's participants are veteran Dos Amigos volunteer, Jenny Bell (whose father, Dr. Joe Lindsay co-founded the program), Dr. Peter Lucore, Laura Lucore, Elena Lucore, Rebekah Wilke and Ann Weaver.
You can find out more about the program and donate at the Dos Amigos website.
You can find out more about the program and donate at the Dos Amigos website.
Halls of Hope Project Brightens Youth Court
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April 2019Hancock County Youth Court Judge Trent Favre initiated a "Halls of Hope" program, in which the walls of the courtroom would be used to display works by local artists. The works were unveiled during the annual Light of Hope ceremony organized by CASA of Hancock County that honors outstanding community advocates.
You'll find more details in this WLOX story. |
Magnolia Bayou Watershed Education Project Receives Award
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April 2019Steve Barney, Gulf Coast "Mad Potter," STEAM educator and president of The Arts, Hancock County, received an award for his work on the Magnolia Bayou Watershed Education Project. Each award includes $5,000 to further community engagement and honors examples of successful engagement by faculty, staff and students.
Barney is also featured in the April 2019 issue of South Mississippi Living. |
St. Stanislaus Students Honored at Scholastic Art Regionals
Jiarui Li, Liam Arnsdorff, Jack Winstead, Sam Booker and Cameron Baehr.
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April 2019Jack Winstead and Cameron Baehr won Gold Key Awards, and Liam Arnsdorff won a Silver Key Award in the Scholastic Art regional competition. Sam Booker and Jiarui Li won Honorable Mentions in the competition. The young men all study art with Ms. Cathy Lawson. To read more about Scholastic Art Awards, click here.
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Other Stanislaus students—Sam Booker, Trace Rhodes, Ethan Favre, Brandon Elkins, Will Scriber, Ty Peterson, and Jackson—all had artworks featured in the Art in the Pass student art exhibition on April 7. Another St. Stanislaus student, Gabe Bradford, won 2nd place in the Ceramic category.
April Designated Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Month
April 2019
Via proclamation from the Hancock County Board of Supervisors and the Cities of Bay St. Louis and Waveland, CASA of Hancock County proclaimed April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. Multiple events are taking place to raise awareness for children who are abused or neglected. Read the full story here.
Bay-Waveland Middle School Student D.C. Bound
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April 2019Bay-Waveland Middle School sixth-grader Jay Kelton was recently chosen to represent his school and hometown in Washington, D.C. at the Junior National Young Leaders Conference, a six-day summer program. Kelton was nominated by Angela Jaynes , Bay-Waveland Middle School teacher. Read the full story here.
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Stella Yell Goes to Tin Dangermond
Tin (Constantin) in his 1st place winning performance at the Stella yelling contest. Photo credit: Geoff Belcher, Sea Coast Echo.
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April 2019Tin Dangermond, son of Rachel Dangermond of the 100 Men Hall, won the children's division of the 2019 Stella Yelling Contest as part of the BSL Little Theater’s Tennessee Williams’ tribute. Jeff Cabe won the Adult division.
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Volunteers Pack 10,000+ Meals
photo by Lisa Monti
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April 2019Main Street United Methodist Church members joined the Bay St. Louis Rotary club to prepare more than 10,000 meals to help fight world hunger. The effort took place in a single afternoon as part of a program called Rise Against Hunger.
See the WLOX story here. |
Amtrak Getting Closer
Kay Kell, Knox Ross and Nikki Moon have all been working for years to help get passenger train service restored to the coast and BSL
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March 2019WLOX reports that Amtrak service between New Orleans and Mobile is becoming a real possibility and city leaders are looking for ways to capitalize. According to the story:
Nikki Moon, owner of Bay Town Inn and president of the Hancock County Chamber board, simply says it’s time. "All everybody is saying is ‘We’re ready. Let’s bring ‘em in. Come on,'" she said. See the full story here. |
Waveland School Program Celebrates Black History Month
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March 2019Mrs. Pamela Terry's 2nd graders at Waveland Elementary School observed Black History Month with reports on the contributions of prominent African Americans. The students chose authors, athletes, musicians, scientists, political figures and educators including Mrs. Terry to study and shared information about them with their fellow students and parents.
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Mrs. Terry said Bay-Waveland superintendent Dr. Sandra Reed and Waveland Elementary principal Steven Engle encourage and support multicultural awareness programs such as the Black History Month observance.
Ruth's Roots Featured in Mississippi Magazine
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March 2019Ruth's Roots, the Old Town community garden on Court Street, has been recognized in the March/April 2019 issue of Mississippi Magazine in an article entitled "Growing Community." Read about it here. The garden is supported by several local organizations.
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Local Man Donates Kidney to Fellow Church Member
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March 2019Jack Schornick recently donated a kidney to Paul Jordan, senior, family friend and fellow St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church member. Both men are successfully recovering from their surgeries. Read about it in The Sea Coast Echo. Schornick and his wife, Glenda, own and operate Magnolia Antiques.
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OLA Senior Receives President's Volunteer Service Award
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March 2019Our Lady Academy (OLA) Senior Kennedy Hertz has been honored for her exemplary volunteer services with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. This award recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country and was granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program.
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Trapani's Receives Covey Nomination
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March 2019Trapani's Eatery has been nominated for a Covey Award in the Best Local Cuisine category. The Top three Best of the Best will be honored at the Coast Observer 2019 Covey Awards Ceremony on March 19 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Biloxi. The nominee with the most votes in each category will be named the Covey Award Winner for 2018.
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Hancock Chamber Honors Nikki Moon
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March 2019Nikki Moon, Hancock County Chamber of Commerce Board president, was recently honored by the Chamber with an online profile commemorating Women's History Month. Moon is the owner of the Bay Town Inn, a 12-room inn in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Moon is one of five Hancock County women who have served as Board president.
In February, the Bay Town Inn was highlighted in "There Goes Connie," a Christian travel blog. |
BSL Promotes Women in Politics
Wendy McDonald, former BSL Council member and current candidate for MS House of Representatives, District 122, served on the Women in Politics panel at the library.
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March 2019Angelyn Zeringue and Jennifer Baxter lit up the 4 O’Clock Show on @wloxtv while promoting the Women in Politics panel (March 7) hosted by the Hancock County Library System and the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce. The panel provided an “open style" community conversation with some amazing local women who have spent their careers in government and politics.
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BSL Featured on Around the Town in the South
The Blind Tiger was one of the local spots covered in the Around Town in the South video blog.
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March 2019Around the Town in the South met up with Nikki Moon and Tish Haas Williams at the BSL Depot and became part of this vlog. Watch as Moon and Williams talk about everything local, from Amtrak to ice cream to Mardi Gras gowns.
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Cuz's Makes the Yum
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February 2019The Yums, which reviews eateries around the world, recently featured Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar & Grill, deeming it "nothing fancy - just delicious." Read about it here.
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The Best Beach Town
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February 2019Southern Living Magazine has designated Bay St. Louis as one of the "Best Beach Towns to Visit this Winter," citing its old architecture and "quirky beach town charm" with specific references to Old Town, the Depot, and favorite spots locals have long known about and loved. Shoofly Magazine sponsor, The Mockingbird Café, also received a big shoutout as a place people would want to visit "at least once" while they're in town.
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Hancock County becomes ACT Work Ready
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February 2019Hancock County is the first coastal Mississippi county to earn the ACT National Career Readiness Certification, which indicates the county’s workforce has the skills employers are looking for. Read about it in the Sea Coast Echo. The public is invited to celebrate the recognition on Thursday, February 21, 2pm at the Hancock Campus of PRCC, located at 454, Hwy. 90, Waveland.
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Hancock County CASA Finds National Voice
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February 2019Hancock County CASA director, Cynthia Chauvin, has been appointed to the National Leadership Council of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association. In a leadership position as executive director, Chauvin will play an integral role in voicing the unique needs of the Mississippi state and local CASA network.
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Bright Future for Bay High Senior Avery Lyons
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February 2019In recognition of her hard work and dedication, Avery Lyons Bay High Senior, has been accepted to two Ivy League colleges and the Naval Academy. WLOX covers the story here. Avery is the daughter of Sarah and Kristine Lyons (owner of Shoofly Magazine sponsor Gulf Coast Camper Rentals.
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Cork Named Top CEO by MS Business Journal
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February 2019
Bill Cork, Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission CEO was recognized by Mississippi Business Journal as one of the state's Top Chief Executive Officers. On his Linked-In page, Cork acknowledged the honor by crediting HCPH commissioners, teammates, community leaders, customer and tenant businesses "who are the real stars." |
Justin Mitchell Returns to Coast with McClatchy
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February 2019After four months at the Clarion Ledger, where he has overseen digital and social strategy, Justin Mitchell is returning to the Coast as South Regional Growth Editor with McClatchy media. He will be based in the Biloxi newsroom and will travel around the region as needed.
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Mockingbird Café Featured on "Where to Eat" on Coast
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February 2019
"The Southern Thing" blog recently published an article called "Mississippi Gulf Coast Travel Guide." The Mockingbird Café was one of six restaurants featured in the article, referred to as "a charming and eclectic eatery located... just two blocks from the beach... with a variety of local delicious dishes and locally-roasted coffee." The "Must-Try" dish at the 'Bird? Chicken and Waffles. |
Rum Kitchen Advances to Final Round of Awards
John "Chappy" Chapman
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January 2018John and Starr Chapman joined the ranks of one this year’s state winners for the Restaurant Neighbor Award based on their creation of the annual Hemingway Festival, which benefits the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum of Waveland. See the latest events and menu offerings at the Rum Kitchen here.
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BSL's Jace Ponder Wins State Award
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The Central Chapter of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi (PRAM) recently recognized Jace Ponder with an Outstanding Professional Award for Emerging Practitioner of the Year. Ponder, a BSL native and writer works with Mississippi Department of Transportation as a public information officer. He was nominated and chosen for the award by his fellow PRAM members.
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Gregory Barabino receives the 2019 NAACP Community Service Award
Courtney Thomas presents the award to Gregory Barabino
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January 2019
In recognition of his mentorship, many contributions, and faithful service to the youth of Hancock County, the NAACP presented Gregory Barabino with the 2019 NAACP Community Service Award. The award was presented at the inaugural banquet for the local celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King. |
Coast Author Featured on Award-winning Blog
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The award-winning blog of publishing expert Jane Friedman recently published an article by New Orleans native and coast resident, writer/publisher Michael Warner. "Building Your Platform When You're Unpublished" details Werner's journey from a corporate attorney to author and publisher at Cultured Oak Press.
Read more about Michael Warner and Cultured Oak Press in this Shoofly Magazine story by Lisa Monti. |
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