Today's special was tomato and basil soup served with sourdough toast; naturally, we gave it (and many other things) a try. If you've ever had Pomodoro soup, this very similar. The tomato and basil make up the base but are rounded out with the perfect ratio of garlic, cream and parmesan, making for an exceptional bite. This isn't a one-hit wonder; it's complex and robust, yet still light enough for a hot summer day when you want to feel like you're dining in an Italian countryside.

 
We paired it with the caprese sandwich on the same sourdough, filled to dripping with a bright pesto, Roma tomatoes, and smooth, fresh mozzarella. The soup and sandwich were a perfect flavor combination and could easily be a meal shared.
 

 
Next came the turkey and brie, also on sourdough – made in-house- and perfectly tangy without being sharp. This was a flavor explosion: thick slices of oven-roasted turkey, cranberry chutney and creamy brie, set off by avocado and bacon. This is a SANDWICH in every sense of the word. Ross would fight over it.
 
We finished our lunch tour with the bakery's number-one seller, the chicken salad croissant. I can see why it's a crowd favorite; it's packed with flavor. The chicken is combined with a savory aioli, perfectly complemented by minced capers, all tucked into a buttery, flaky croissant and dressed with lettuce and tomato. This is Southern summer on a plate. They also offer a sweeter chicken salad with walnuts and grapes along with take-home staples including a craveable house-made pimento cheese, marmalades, and even go-containers of that tomato soup.

 
Now for dessert. With so many sweet options, choosing was difficult. Because of the recent popularity of Dubai chocolate, the Dubai chocolate brownie was our first selection. Dense but not dry, it almost had the consistency of a lemon bar, though nothing alike in flavor. It was topped with pistachio cream, little chewy, crispy bits, and a thick, fudgy chocolate ganache. Decadent.
 
Next came the Boston cream cupcake: moist yellow cake, smooth pastry cream filling and chocolate ganache. The cake was light and airy, while the cream offset everything and the chocolate added just enough sweetness.
 

 
Finally, we sampled the peach pie with streusel topping. Y'all, this is NEXT LEVEL goodness. The gooey peach filling was sweet without being cloying, nestled inside a flaky, buttery homemade pie shell. The streusel added texture without changing it from a pie to a crumble. We got ours warmed at the bakery, but I think this would be even better warmed at home and topped with vanilla ice cream. I WILL be back for more!
 
Other standouts to try are the baklava (sold out that day, but the best I've ever had), cream puffs, and Danishes. It was hard to resist a beautiful fig and brie Danish in the case! They also offer more savory breakfast options including avocado toast, yogurt bowls, and breakfast sandwiches.
 

 
Everything can be eaten there or taken to-go, and Harvest Bay is also one of the few places in town serving Flamjeaux Coffee, roasted just around the corner on Washington Street. The coffee is smooth, never bitter, roasted in small batches and available by the cup or by the bag to take home. Even without the sweets, this coffee is fantastic.
 

 
Harvest Bay Artisan Bakery brings a European bakery feel unrivaled in town and is one spot that really needs to be on your radar. They sell out of many items quickly, so in this case, the early bird gets the cinnamon roll!
 

 
Harvest Bay Artisan Bakery
131 S. Second Street, Bay St. Louis, MS, 39520
Open Tues-Sun 7-3

A woman’s remembrance of the day none of us will ever forget, and a chance for her to revisit her feelings of that day.

- Story by Rhonda Rhodes

 
I sat holding my infant, frozen in rising fear and overwhelming sadness as the reporters scrambled to report all the missing flights that were not yet accounted for. At one point there were seven flights unaccounted for. Then the Pentagon. And then there was one; the fatal flight headed for Washington that ended in a Pennsylvania meadow; we would not learn about the heroes on that plane until later.
 

 
I watched people jumping out of buildings live on television, and Peter Jennings cried. I cried when they hung the flag on the outside of Pentagon. Our beautiful country was being attacked on its own soil using its own people. That night, I laid in bed with my babies all tucked in and felt something completely new: fear of an attack on American soil. That day changed every American who watched it unfold. Our innocence and security were gone, replaced by a fierce resolve to persevere. We cried. We held our babies tighter. We went to church. We held hands with strangers. We loved each other and we loved our country. We stood together, unified, for one beautiful, shining moment.
 

 
Last February, I finally made it to the 9/11 Memorial in New York. We planned the visit for the morning, and the website informed us that ninety minutes would be plenty of time for our visit. Four hours in, I was so saturated that I couldn’t bear another memory and I had not been through half of it. I will go back and finish it one day because it deserves to be remembered. As a nation, we can never forget what cowards do when our freedoms threaten them. The 9/11 Memorial was beautiful, terrible, sad, and hopeful all at once.
 

 
After leaving, we walked past Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, taking a moment to give thanks for the first responders who ran into those buildings, the priest and other chaplains that lost their lives ministering to the injured and the afraid. Some lost their lives that day and some slowly and painfully years later. They all deserve to be remembered. “No Day Shall Erase You from the Memory of Time.”
 

 
It’s been 25 years, a generation. There are children in school today learning about 9/11 like we learned about World War II, this foreign, removed, abstract event that happened. The people who died on 9/11 doing what they did every day deserve to be remembered, and the cowardice of the terrorists that took their lives should never be forgotten. We must talk to our children and our grandchildren and tell them the story of what it felt like that day. We also must teach them what it was like on September 12, about the unity of our country and the solidarity with our neighbor. We should never forget either day, and we should remember that in spite of our differences, we are all one nation.
 

Are you ready for Cruisin’ the Coast 2026? This annual event will mark its 30th anniversary in 2026, so get ready for a jam-packed schedule of activities featuring great music, good friends, and lots and lots of chrome!
 
- by the Shoofly Staff; 2025 photos by Gregg Martel

​Sunday, October 4

• View the Cruise, Downtown Gulfport, 8 am-5 pm
• Cruise-In with KOTO, Hardy Court Shopping Center, Gulfport, 9 am-2 pm
• Cruisin’ Through the Decades, Gautier, Noon-5 pm; Drive-in Movie — Stroker Ace, 5:30 pm
• Courtney Hansen appearances: Hardy Court, 10 am-noon; Gulfport, 1:30–3:30 pm

​Casino Entertainment

• Hank Berumen, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood Brunch, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
• Eugene Eash, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Butler’s, 6 pm-9 pm
• After Party, International Party Band, Beau Rivage Casino, EIGHT75, 7 pm-midnight
  ​

Tuesday, October 6

• KOTO spins the oldies at Cruise Central, 9 am-5 pm
• 2026 Registration package pick-up, 9 am-5 pm for last names L-Z only; Cruise Central, Jones Park, Gulfport
• 2026 Onsite Registration, 9 am-5 pm, Cruise Central, Jones Park, Gulfport
• Mississippi Gulf Fresh Seafood Sampling, Cruise Central at Jones Park, 9-11 am and 1-4 pm
• Autocross – presented by Scarlet Pearl Casino, the City of D’Iberville, and Autocross Guys, Scarlet Pearl Casino (north surface parking lot), 9 am-5 pm. Open to registered vehicles only
• “Salute To Our Veterans”, 10 am-2 pm, Cruise Central with Garry “Elvis” Wesley and the  Victory Belles
• Cruisin’ The River City, Moss Point, 10 am-4 pm
• Margaritaville Cruise-in, 11 am- 4 pm, Margaritaville Resort Biloxi
• Chris Jacobs appearance: Margaritaville, 9-11:30 am, 1-4 pm
• Courtney Hansen and Cristy Lee appearance: Cruise Central, 10 am-noon, 1-3 pm
• The Vicari Auto Auction vehicle check-in at Coast Coliseum, 2-5 pm
• New Location! Flame-throwing Competition at IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi. Registration 5 pm, begins at dusk; $1,000 cash prizes & trophies! DJ Hurricane Loyd plays 4 pm-dusk, live entertainment by Hip Pocket in Chill Ultra Lounge 8 pm-midnight

​Casino Entertainment

• After Party – International Party Band, Beau Rivage Casino, EIGHT75, 7 pm-midnight
• Hip Pocket, IP Casino, Chill Ultra Lounge, 8 pm-midnight
  
  

Wednesday, October 7

• KOTO spins the oldies at Cruise Central, 9 am-5 pm
• 2026 Registration package pick-up, 9 am-5 pm for all registrations
• Biloxi Block Party, Downtown Biloxi, 8 am-3 pm; Mississippi Gulf Fresh Seafood Sampling, 10 am-1 pm
• Autocross – presented by Scarlet Pearl Casino, the City of D’Iberville, and Autocross Guys, Scarlet Pearl Casino (north surface parking lot), 9 am-5 pm. Open to registered vehicles only.
• New Event! “Drifting Exhibition,” Scarlet Pearl Casino (north surface parking lot), 9 am-5 pm. Open to registered vehicles only.
• Car Corral open and vehicle check-in, east of Treasure Bay Casino, 9 am-5 pm
• Hot Rods & Hospitality, Waveland, Coleman Ave., 10 am-2 pm. Entertainment by Joni Compretta & Baytown Groove
• The Vicari Auto Auction vehicle check-in at Coast Coliseum, 9 am-5 pm
• Diamondhead, Blessing of the Classics, 4-7 p.m. Line up at 1:30 pm. Entertainment by the Razzoo Band 1-4 pm and the Beau King Band 4-7 pm
• Courtney Hansen appearances: Biloxi Block Party, 9-11:30 am; Beau Rivage Casino, 6-7:30 pm
• Cristy Lee appearances: Biloxi Block Party, 9-11:30 am; Beau Rivage Casino, 6-7:30 pm
• Chris Jacobs appearances: Biloxi Block Party, , 9-11:30 am; Beau Rivage Casino, 6-7:30 pm
• Dennis Gage appearance: Beau Rivage Casino, 6-7:30 pm
• Dave Kindig & KevDogg appearances: Cruise Central, 10 am-noon and 1-3 pm; Beau Rivage Casino 6-7:30 pm
• Beau Rivage Cruisin’ Events, 6-9 pm
  • “Back 2 Mac – Fleetwood Mac Tribute,” Beau Rivage Theatre, $20 admission, doors open 6 pm, show 7:30-9 pm
  • 6-7:30 p.m., Meet & Greets with Dennis Gage of My Classic Car, Dave Kindig & KevDogg, Cristy Lee, Courtney Hansen, and Chris Jacobs, Beau Rivage Retail Promenade | MGM Golf, free and open to the public

​Casino Entertainment

• The Sanchez Brothers of Na Na Sha & The Triggerproof All Stars, Beau Rivage Casino, EIGHT75, 7 pm-midnight
  ​

Saturday, October 10

• KOTO spins the oldies at Cruise Central, 9 am-5 pm
• Registration and all Cruisin’ Venues are open 9 am-5 pm.
  Sites with bands: Bay St. Louis, D’Iberville, Edgewater Mall, Gulfport Cruise Central, Ocean Springs, Pascagoula, Pass Christian
• 2026 Registration, 9 am-noon
• 2027 Registration continues, 9 am-5 pm
• Country Cruisin’ Breakfast, Long Beach Yacht Club, 7-10 am
• The Vicari Auto Auction at Coast Coliseum, doors open at 8:30 am; auction begins 10 am; vehicle check-out: vehicles should be paid for and checked out by the end of auction on Saturday.
• Vicari Auction’s CTC Swap Meet open at Coast Coliseum, 9 am-5 pm
• Car Corral open and vehicle check-in, east of Treasure Bay Casino, 9 am-5 pm
• Dennis Gage appearances: Ocean Springs, 2-4 pm
• Gulf Coast Nationals, Gasser Racing, Gulfport Dragway, 1 pm
• D’Iberville Mayor’s Choice Award, 2 pm; $600 in cash prizes
• SUPER SATURDAY CONCERT – Bag of Donuts performing live at Hollywood Casino Resort in Bay St. Louis. Free event begins at 7 pm; patriotic fireworks to follow

Cruisin’ Venue Entertainment

• Bay St. Louis
  • 11 am-noon – KeithBurns
  • 1-2 pm – R & R Band
  • 3-4:30 pm – Vince Vance & The Valiants
• Pass Christian
  • 11 am-noon – Gary “Elvis” Wesley
  • 1-2 pm – Barlow Brothers
  • 3-4:30 pm – Na Na Sha
• Gulfport Cruise Central
  • 11 am-noon – Brandie
  • 1-2 pm – Cool Rayz
  • 3:30-5:30 pm – BRW
• Edgewater Mall
  • 11 am-noon – Daddy O
  • 1-2 pm – Starz
  • 3-4:30 pm – Modern Eldorados
• D’Iberville
  • 11 am-noon – Black Velvet
  • 1-2 pm – The Project
  • 3-4:30 pm – Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster
• Ocean Springs Downtown
  • 11 am-Noon – Scott Hinson
  • 1-2:30 pm – Miles Flatt
  • 3-4:30 pm - Escalade
• Pascagoula
  • 11 am-noon – Eddie McDaniel
  • 1-2 pm – Hip Pocket
  • 3-4:30 pm – The Tip Tops

Casino Entertainment

• Jay Leno, Beau Rivage Casino, 8 pm; tickets at beaurivage.com
• 8-Track, Hollywood Casino Stage Bar, 8 pm-midnight
• Starz, Hollywood Casino Hollydeck, 3-7 pm; DJ 9:30-11:30 pm
• Jesse Hill, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood, 6-10 pm
• Triggerproof, Beau Rivage Casino, EIGHT75, 8 pm-1 am
• Fever Dream, IP Casino Chill Ultra Lounge, 9 pm-1 am
• Al “Lil’ Fats” Jackson, Silver Slipper Casino, Stage Bar, 7 pm
• Eugene Eash, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Butler’s, 10 pm-12:30 am
  
  

Sunday, October 11
All events at Cruise Central.

• 2027 registration open 8 am-noon
• Non-denominational prayer service 8 am
• Stamping cards must be turned in by 9 am
• Cruisin’ The Coast Finale Ceremonies, 9-10:30 am
• Gene Oswalt Volunteer of the Year Award
• Announcements of the winners of the cash drawings (60 drawings of $500 each totaling $30,000)
• Make-A-Wish raffle car giveaway and unveiling of the 2027 raffle vehicle
• Live entertainment by the Modern Eldorados, 10 am-1 pm

​Casino Entertainment

• Jesse Hill, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood, Brunch, 10 am-2 pm
• Eugene Eash, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Butler’s, 6-10 pm
  
  

With the passing of Dolly Parton, America’s uncontested sweetheart, the world lost everyone’s favorite fantasy fairy godmother from Tennessee. And if you live in the Bay, you know the special connection we have with the Queen of Country Music.

- by Melanie Cole

Her “Backwoods Barbie” caricature was a strategy that inspired women everywhere, as Parton went about running her multimillion-dollar empire, writing music history, and funding global philanthropy. She once famously quipped: “I’m not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I’m not dumb... and I also know that I’m not blonde.”

Here in the Bay, Dolly has been a presence for a decade. Founded in 2016 by Ann Madden and Sandy Maggio of Smith & Lens, the Dolly Should event started as a tongue-in-cheek invitation for Dolly to come and celebrate her January 19th birthday in Bay St. Louis. Over time, it morphed into a local cultural mantra: What would Dolly do (WWDD)? Dolly Should …

Originally created together with the Old Town Merchants Association as a Second Saturday attraction to boost foot traffic for downtown businesses, the event has evolved into a beloved annual tradition honoring Parton’s big hair and core values.
 

 
In 2022, Maggio and Madden officially passed the torch—and the glitter—to Alicein Schwabacher and her Mockingbird Cafe team. Schwabacher notes that Parton is a role model because “she turned hardship into something positive, believes in lifting people up… and leads with kindness rather than judgment.”
 
Schwabacher emphasizes that the event is less about celebrity worship and more about community values while having fun. “The festival reflects the core ethos of the Mockingbird Cafe, which served as a crucial gathering space for healing and rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina.”

Dolly Should is a vibrant annual community celebration that honors the country music icon with a full day of Dolly-centric events (wigs and rhinestones encouraged), like the “9-to-5K Run,” a Dolly look-alike contest, and a biggest hair competition. In parallel, it has in recent years become a conduit for child literacy outreach by hosting a children’s book drive benefiting local initiatives and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the flagship program operated through the Dollywood Foundation.

 
What started as a small project in 1995 to honor Parton’s father, who never learned to read, has turned into a global initiative. To date, her foundation has shipped over 300 million books to kids across the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Australia, reshaping the conversation around childhood literacy. Libraries and community groups worldwide have adopted her model of putting physical books directly into children’s hands.
 
This month, the Hancock County Library System has officially joined forces with the Library Foundation of Hancock County and the United Way of South Mississippi to significantly expand local access to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Launched at the start of September 2026 for National Library Card Month, this community-wide initiative aims to put free, age-appropriate books into the hands of every eligible child in the county from birth until their fifth birthday.

“Our goal is to have every child who's eligible in Hancock County enrolled and participating,” explained Kevin Cole, PR/Marketing Coordinator for the Hancock County Library System. He noted that enrolling the remaining eligible population will cost between $60,000 and $80,000 overall.
 
To reach this goal, the Foundation launched a fundraising campaign. “We are trying to get people to donate $31 to support one child for one year,” Cole said, or $155 total for the full five years.

 
The primary outreach will kick off at local branch events this fall. “Our first effort will be to get everybody who attends the Story Time Reading Programs at all five of our branches enrolled,” Cole explained.
 
To maximize the community’s impact, the Library Foundation is matching all September contributions dollar-for-dollar. Combined with a $5,000 grant from Coast Electric’s Community Foundation Fund, the initiative already has $10,000 in matching funds secured.

You can support the cause by stopping by the Second Line Used Bookstore, a volunteer-run bookstore located inside the Bay St. Louis Library at 312 Hwy 90 in Bay St. Louis, or by making a $31 donation directly to the Library Foundation online or by mail.

To donate online, you can use the Library Foundation of Hancock County's general donation form. Just be sure to add a note specifying that your donation is for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

 
If you prefer to mail a check, make it out to The Library Foundation of Hancock County, write “Imagination Library” or “DPIL Match” in the memo line, and send it to The Library Foundation of Hancock County, 312 Highway 90, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520.
 
Any $31 gift you make in September will automatically be doubled to $62 by the foundation’s matching pool!
 

So tease that hair high, grab a book, and shine your brightest—because around here, doing good never goes out of style, and Dolly Always Should.
​

 
“Being the first ground-up restaurant built on Coleman Avenue since Hurricane Katrina says something powerful about how far our city has come,” Trapani said. “Seeing a developer commit to building brand new here is a real vote of confidence for Waveland and its future.”
 

 
The Sand Bar will have an open-air ground floor with a full bar and snack options. The second floor will be climate controlled and feature a full oyster bar, offering patio seating and stunning views of the Gulf. In addition to on-street parking, The Sand Bar will offer special golf cart parking spots, complete with chargers.
 
"Waveland needs a fun, casual, beachside restaurant,” said Genin. “If not now, when?”
 
Live music, fresh Gulf seafood, and a family-friendly environment are central to the concept.
 
The current plan is to open by October, so keep an eye out for opening details!

​More big news on Coleman: The Garfield Ladner Pier is moving along – FINALLY!!  These structural repairs have been a long time coming. Once construction is completed on the structure, additional improvements are anticipated, including adding back the pagodas. The contractor has six weeks to finish the structural repairs, so check back around the first week of October.
 

Waveland is getting pickleball courts! There will be two courts constructed at Waveland Avenue Park (or Elwood Bourgeois Park, 220 Pine St.). The contractor has 90 calendar days to complete construction, so be ready with your paddles on Thanksgiving day, November 26!
 

Make sure to stop by the new McLaurin Street playground! This family attraction is located next to the Waveland Police Department, with shaded spots to picnic and relax and a large open field for other fun activities.

It’s election season, and here is the finalized list of candidates and the roles they are seeking:
 
Mayor

• Jay Trapani, Republican
• Bobby Richardson, Republican

 
Ward 1 Alderman

• Rhonda Aime-Gamble, Republican
• Roger Estopinal, Republican

 
Ward 2 Alderman

• Vicki Reid-Estapa, Republican
• Arthur A. Paulk, Republican
• Adam L. Bouma, Republican
• Clarence Harris, Democrat

 
Ward 3 Alderman

• Bryan Frater, Republican
• Braxton Lafontaine, Republican
• Paul ‘PT’ Taylor, Republican

 
Ward 4 Alderman

• Jeremy G. Clark, Republican
• Gary Catalano, Republican

 
The primary election will be held on Tuesday, October 6, and the general election will be held on Tuesday, December 8.
​

Doug Page and Joshua Starkman explore the evolution of modern Louisiana music in their live music series at the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre – and you’re all invited.

- by Melanie Cole

 
Many of today’s listeners think of “their” music as entirely new, but the reality is much more complex. It’s an ongoing conversation across time. This deep connection is exactly what Doug Page and Joshua Starkman want to explore in their live music series at the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, Tones and Traditions Live Musical Podcast. The artists and stories they presented in the first two episodes are primers on how musical roots are passed down and intertwined over generations, layer upon layer.
 

 
The idea for the series came from a love for musical storytelling. Doug Page, the creative force behind Good Earth Records, spent five years hosting a weekly radio show at WTUL, a progressive/alternative FM radio outlet in New Orleans. Every Thursday, the airwaves became a space where musicians shared their stories and played live sets. “On my show, I was able to interview countless musicians, listen to their stories, and hear them perform live on the air,” Page reflects. “This live and in-person series at the Little Theatre is a direct connection to my days on the radio.” He wanted to produce an event that was, in his words, “part concert, part education.”
 

 
Page then approached Preservation Hall Jazz Band guitarist and social media personality Joshua Starkman with the concept. Known around New Orleans for his deeply rooted musical connections and a history of playing with and interviewing local musicians, Starkman says that teaming up was an obvious segue. “Doug approached me about coming to Bay St. Louis and hosting the musicians that he brings in, and it was just a natural fit,” Starkman says.
 

 
Starkman’s own musical passions are rooted in a deep respect for the older generation of artists who paved the way. Moving to New Orleans in 2010, he played wherever he could while seeking out legendary jazz players to learn from directly. “I come from a playing background,” Starkman explains, “and when I started doing social media, I leaned into my own natural interests. One of them is interviewing musicians, talking with them, doing the research, knowing what to ask them.” This dual perspective as an active musician with a deep curiosity about the stories behind the songs results in easygoing, authentic interactions with his musician guests.
 

 
The debut episode of Tones and Traditions established the benchmark for the series. Starkman, along with fellow Preservation Hall musicians Branden Lewis and Craig Klein, teamed up with pianist John 'Papa' Gros to take the audience on a journey through traditional New Orleans jazz, funk, and R&B. The night unfolded as a live tapestry of regional musical history, weaving those early traditions into the unique New Orleans sounds.
 

 
The second episode, Cajun-Creole, widened the scope of Louisiana musical traditions by featuring two artists who both have been members of Grammy Award-winning bands. Cajun fiddle player Louis Michot of the Lost Bayou Ramblers and acclaimed banjoist and cellist Leyla McCalla, who played with The Carolina Chocolate Drops, explored the deep Louisiana French/Cajun connections and traditional Haitian Creole histories of our regional musical styles. They shared the stories of the migration of those rhythms into what are now classic genres of regional music, from Zydeco to the Haitian Vodou drumming syncopations that New Orleans Jazz is known for.
 

 
For Starkman, who grew up in Miami around Latino and Haitian cultures, this intersection highlights a fundamental truth: Music is a reflection of our shared humanity, not just art or commerce. “I think being raised around that developed my mindset for music as connectivity,” Starkman notes.
 

 
In a world dominated by commercial shortcuts and social media loops, Starkman believes that engaging with ancestral musical roots is more critical than ever. He views music as an ancient form of storytelling that cuts through modern noise. “If we understand the people behind the music, then maybe we won't be so freaked out by each other. Humans are musical beings. We always have been,” Starkman says.
 

 
Looking ahead, Page and Starkman plan to drive the Tones and Traditions mission forward by delivering at least four events each year. Ideas for future episodes include featuring the Kumasi Afrobeat Orchestra, the Cuban Jazz band OTRA, and members of the United Houma Nation Tribe sharing their Native American traditions.
 

 
Ultimately, the series celebrates cultural evolution, revealing the deep musical and human threads that connect us all, “especially in this region of Mississippi and Louisiana - the birthplace of America's Music!” Page adds.
 
Stay tuned for the next episodes in this series on our “Upcoming Events” page and our community calendar.

Whatever you like to do for fun, Bay St. Louis has something for you this fall! Read on to see a breakdown of what's in store.

​- Story by Old Town Merchants Association and Kirby Rhodes

Whether it is a special event or just everyday enjoyment, life is good in Bay St. Louis. There is always something to do and people to meet. To learn more about Old Town head over to OTMA’s website, baystlouisoldtown.org. 

Native American peoples tread lightly on the earth, never taking more than they needed to survive. Our society should strive for that kind of thrift.

- by James Inabinet

The Spanish moss example is “commensalism,” an ecological term, literally “sharing a table.” Native Americans, for example, shared a table on earth with his animal neighbors  and the earth herself. Taboo and reverence pulled him “toward the heart of the world” to regulate his behavior and become a largely benign presence on earth. So light was his footprint, it’s difficult to find all the places he dwelled.
​

The mistletoe is “parasitism,” literally “one who lives at another’s expense.” Mistletoe feeds from the tree’s subsistence, ingesting sugars the tree makes, often weakening it to the point of death. Modern society resembles mistletoe, exemplifying what may happen should the limiting effects of taboo and reverence be given over in the name of questionable freedom. Modern humans go to the land – and go to the land – to take what’s needed and increasingly what’s wanted. In this way, we “entangle ourselves in knots of our own making,” and ecosystems suffer. Cities and farms and developments erase entire ecosystems, inviting extinction. Human waste spreads over the earth, interdicting natural processes to the point of collapse. An insatiable thirst drives the spread over the earth, overwhelming any place where humans might live. The earth suffers. Our footprint is large and heavy. Were humans to disappear, it would take more than a few centuries to erase the signs of our presence.
​

The fungi attach to the roots of the oak, taking sugars in exchange for water and nutrients. Together both thrive. The relationship between oak and fungi is mutualism, literally “exchanged.” Contemporary mutualistic relationships between humans and nature exist, scattered about, enough to explore and document “how to,” but too localized and too silent to have much effect at all. To be sure, the requisite technology for all of us to move into a mutualistic relationship with earth already exists, a way of being that could elicit the mutual flourishing of all humans and nature. My question is: What might make that happen? Or better yet: What’s stopping us?

What’s stopping us is in Rilke. We’d have to go back to “what we each belong” and give up some “empty freedom.” Actually, it would require giving up little in the way of freedom. What it would require, though, is for us to simply be more mindful of what we do, how we do it, and how it affects everything else; we simply can’t do anything we want! Out of this, what we all stand to gain is something approaching “universal flourishing,” the normal state of nature. When left alone, ecosystems and the organisms in it flourish. It requires, though, that constituent beings give up empty freedom – which they do! Hawks and owls, for example, are not free to hunt without limit, or there might soon be no squirrels at all, no mice at all – which would wreck the forest! Humans are not so constrained. In our arrogance we effectively hunt without limit, taking far beyond the abundant possibilities provided by earth, the matrix of all living beings.

I have a vision of a different world, one where we look to the earth herself for answers to “what should we do,” to “how should we live” under the auspices of: we cannot do just anything we want – and that’s OK! We would still, collectively, all be better off than what we have and are now. I’m not sure any of this is possible, but it needs to be. If my vision [and those of like mind] can hold fast and ignite a fire among my human brothers and sisters to seek out ways to be and do on earth as mutualistic partners, perhaps we might begin honoring earth and the ecosystems upon which all life depends.–.and so honor our animal neighbors with whom we share this earthly home. The result might be the beginnings of a flourishing Earth, a garden Earth, human cities and towns blending together with nature “rising up rooted like trees” as we “surrender to earth’s intelligence.” Flourishing humans ensconced within flourishing nature – this is my dream.

This issue, we celebrate the life of one of Bay St. Louis's most beloved citizens and mourn our loss at her passing.

- by Maurice Singleton

 
Her sister, Lylie, said that Goldie followed in the footsteps of their mother, Alvina Nichols, and both grandmothers, all who worked to improve the lives of the local people who needed help.

 
“They were involved in issues that helped to improve the lives of people,” said Nichols. “They did whatever they could to make things better for others. They truly tried to help people.”
  
Goldie worked in the security department at the Hollywood Casino until her retirement 12 years ago. After retirement, she made it a point to be involved however she could to continue the work that her mother and grandmothers had started decades earlier.

 
“We’ve been best buds since grade school,” said Ishem-Alexander. “Everybody loved Goldie.”
 

 
Goldie was elected president of the Hancock County Branch of the NAACP in 2022. As president, Goldie was successful in working across the community and increasing diversity in the organization’s membership.
 
Nichols said that Goldie lived to bridge gaps between people and communities.
 
“When you have a sister like mine,” said Nichols, “she was always thoughtful, always kind, and always thinking of how to make the others happy. We can never forget this village that we were taught from the examples of our mother and grandmothers.

 
“I was taught to love, be happy, be kind, enjoy your family,” said Nichols. “And it is extremely important in times like this.”
 
Nichols said that she sincerely believes that Goldie was ready when God called her home.

“I watched her smile a half grin,” said Nichols. “I also watched her let her savior Jesus - the One who she gave it all to - take her hand and say, 'this is what you worked for.'
 
“I never saw a tear,” Nichols continued. “Not one wet tear. This confirmed for me that she gave it all to go through what she did to make her way to Heaven. I am convinced that my sister Golden Ann Fairconnetue gained her wings.”

 
Goldie is survived by her husband, Russell Fairconnetue, two children, six stepchildren, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, a sister and a brother.
 
A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church on Saturday, July 18, at 11:00 a.m.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for Flying Dolly's!
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- By Heather Dubuisson

 
While the location is owned by Mike and Micki Perniciaro and their daughter, Melanie, this enterprise is truly a family affair.  Melanie’s oldest daughter, Kelan Perniciaro, manages  the day-to-day operations full-time with the kind of warmth that makes customers feel less like patrons and more like guests in their home. Melanie's youngest daughter, Kaimbry Perniciaro, also manages when on break from the University of Tennessee. Bay St. Louis has been the home to the Perniciaro family for generations.
 

 
During our visit, we were welcomed by yet another family member, Michael III, who was home for the summer and eager to share the story behind the business. From the family's history with the brand to the care that goes into every product they serve, his enthusiasm was contagious. It didn't take long to realize this wasn't simply another ice cream shop. Behind every scoop is a family proud of what they're serving and genuinely excited to share it with their community.
 

 
Flying Dolly's takes pride in offering premium ice cream made without any artificial dyes. Every batch is hand-churned by a specialty family-run dairy, creating a rich, creamy texture that immediately stands out. The shop offers 17 ice cream flavor options, and there is always a dairy-free option for those looking for an alternative. 
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When asked which flavor was the one that customers absolutely shouldn't miss, Michael didn't hesitate: honeycomb. Of all the flavors we sampled, honeycomb quickly emerged as the star of our show as well. Built on a sweet cream base with honey and homemade honeycomb brittle, it delivers an unexpected combination of silky creaminess and delicate crunch. The sweetness is present without becoming overwhelming, and every component is balanced beautifully. It's the kind of flavor that keeps revealing something new with every bite.
 
The strawberry was another standout. Too often, strawberry ice cream relies on flavoring rather than fruit, but Flying Dolly's takes a different approach. Packed with real strawberries, each bite tastes bright, fresh, and unmistakably authentic. It manages to feel indulgent while still capturing the simple sweetness of a freshly picked berry.
 

 
Then there was Cookie Monster, perhaps the most playful flavor in the lineup. The bright blue ice cream immediately catches your eye, but the flavor is what keeps your attention. Imagine cookies and cream mingling with chunks of cookie dough, all wrapped in the blue nostalgia of childhood memories. It's fun, whimsical, and impossible not to smile while eating it. Adults will appreciate the quality, while kids will instantly declare it their favorite.
 
What stood out throughout the tasting wasn't necessarily one specific flavor, but the consistency across all of them. Each scoop felt thoughtfully developed, rich without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and crafted with ingredients that were clearly chosen for quality rather than convenience.
 

 
For those looking to venture beyond traditional ice cream, the shop's stuffed sno-balls are worth exploring. We tried the Hummingbird, a combination of nectar cream sno-ball surrounding Honeycomb ice cream and topped with sweet cream. It was indulgent, refreshing, and generously portioned. We ordered a small, but the staff explained they intentionally serve them in larger containers to reduce the inevitable drips and spills. Even so, the cup arrived packed to the brim.
 
One feature that locals will appreciate is the opportunity to take home the rotating weekly flavors. Any remaining specialty flavors are packaged into pints and sold at the end of the week, giving customers one last chance to enjoy a favorite before the next rotation arrives.

 
Flying Dolly's feels like exactly the kind of business Bay St. Louis embraces: family-owned, community-focused, and committed to quality. Between the welcoming atmosphere, premium ingredients, generous portions, and obvious pride behind the counter, it's easy to see why this sweet new addition is already making a name for itself downtown. In a town built on local connections and hospitality, Flying Dolly's fits right in.
 

Two local organizations recognize five deserving Hancock County students with cash scholarships to help jump-start their continuing education.

- by Kirby Rhodes

This year, 100 Women DBA awarded four $1,000 scholarships to women of color graduating from Hancock County high schools. The 2026 recipients are Bay High seniors Jenaya Golden and Trinity Bishop and Our Lady Academy seniors Jardyn Forte and Gracie Veazey. In addition, Forte received the Lucore Memorial Scholarship, awarded in honor of Elena Marie Lorenza Lucore.

The Emily de Montluzin Foreign Language Scholarship Fund awards one $5,000 scholarship annually to a local student who demonstrates exceptional language ability or a strong commitment to mastering a foreign language. This year’s recipient is Bay High senior Conner Andrew Cliett, who plans to attend Harvard University this fall to study anthropology.

Both organizations rely on community support to continue creating these opportunities for local students. 100 Women DBA accepts donations throughout the year to replenish its scholarship fund. Donations can be made online at 100menhall.com, and donors are asked to email 100menhall@gmail.com to indicate their contribution should be directed to the scholarship fund.

To support the Emily de Montluzin Foreign Language Scholarship Fund, visit the organization’s website at demontluzinscholarship.org.

Waveland is seeing a lot of economic growth, from new restaurants and retail to housing, tourism, and community events. These projects paint a picture of a city that continues to grow while maintaining its small-town character. Here’s a look at what’s up and coming in Waveland.

- By Kirby Rhodes

 
Additionally, the old Rite Aid building is currently being refurbished. The owner has big plans for this location; more details to come soon. Residents are also keeping an eye on several long-awaited public improvement projects.
 

 
One of the most anticipated projects is the Garfield Ladner Pier improvements. Construction has been under contract since the notice to proceed was issued on February 4, 2026. While progress has been slower than many residents hoped, work is underway, and city officials expect more visible activity in the coming months.
 
The dining scene in Waveland continues to grow as well. Thomas Genin is opening a new restaurant on Coleman, with a target opening date of 4th of July. The new restaurant will be located at the same location as the original Rickey’s.
 

 
The old Waveland shopping center will see some development soon too. Work is still underway to address the gas tanks underground. However, the eastern half of the property will soon be home to an RV & Boat storage facility.
 
Beyond commercial development, residential growth remains a major part of Waveland's momentum. Several residential developers are actively building new homes around the city. Mayor Trapani said, “Developers are very interested in Waveland. We (Waveland) are doing very well economically.”

 
Renovations on what was previously the Gulf Grove Apartments are almost complete. Residents of the complex were forced to vacate in 2024 after the apartments were declared uninhabitable. The complex on Waveland Avenue was repurchased by a previous owner with plans for a full renovation. The newly minted Park West Apartments may be available to rent as early as late summer at the market rate.
 
Construction of the Marriott hotel on Highway 90, west of Walmart, should be complete this summer as well. This hotel will be a combination of short-stay rooms, the Fairfield Inn & Suites side, and long-term stays, the TownePlace Suites side. Each section will have 55 rooms, with amenities such as a pool, dining area, bar, gym and laundry facilities. Full details can be found in this article from the Shoofly Magazine archives: The Hospitality City Welcomes a New Mariott Hotel.
 

 
From new restaurants and housing developments to infrastructure improvements and community events, Waveland continues to build on its reputation as one of the Gulf Coast's fastest-growing communities. While many of these projects are still taking shape, residents can expect to see continued progress throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
 

 
Every second Friday of the month, Food Truck Friday is held on the Towne Green 5-8 pm. The next event is scheduled for June 12. Follow Waveland Food Truck Friday for the lineup and updates.
 
Mark your calendar for November 21, when Waveland’s annual Christmas Bazaar will take over Coleman. More details to come soon.
 

A lifelong resident of Bay St. Louis, Bradford earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Louisiana Tech University. He brings extensive experience in financial management, budgeting, strategic planning, compliance, and organizational operations. His professional background includes leadership positions in both the public and private sectors, including serving as site financial controller for Nammo MAC LLC and fiscal officer for the Gulf Regional Planning Commission.
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Bradford also currently serves as a Bay St. Louis city councilman and serves on the St. Stanislaus Alumni Board.

As president and executive director, Bradford will oversee all organizational operations, strategic planning, financial management, program development, community partnerships, and fundraising efforts. He will lead Hancock Resource Center's continued work to provide housing assistance, supportive services, youth leadership development programs, and other critical resources that improve the lives of individuals and families across the region.

Bradford lives in Bay St. Louis with his wife, Katelyn, and their two sons. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, beekeeping, and watching football, especially when cheering on his brother.
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