By Marlene Shaw
Gulfport is a place where community involvement still matters – from elections to everyday efforts that help protect our neighborhoods. Congratulations to Jennifer Webb (Ward 3) and Jennifer Daunch (Ward 1) on their election wins. Thank you to Joe Guenther, Keri Nelson, and all of the candidates for stepping forward and running positive campaigns. And thank you to everyone who cast a ballot. Every vote helps strengthen our community voice and shape the future of our city.
While there is much more to write about, I would be remiss not to highlight two important community efforts. The Adopt-A-Drain initiative on Gulfport Connects (www.mygulfport.us) that helps keep storm drains clear, reduces neighborhood flooding, and protects water quality and local wildlife by keeping debris out of our waterways. And as hurricane season approaches, residents can take the Pledge to Evacuate, also at mygulfport.us – a simple commitment that helps ensure safer evacuations and protects first responders.
Now, for What’s Happening
SPOTLIGHT EVENT OF THE MONTH –
April 13-18: The 7th Annual Gulfport Plein Air Festival. Presented by the Gulfport Merchants Chamber, the festival culminates with the Exhibition & Collector’s Sale on April 18 from 4-6pm at the Gulfport Welcome Center. For more information, contact art@visitgulfportflorida.com or visit www.visitgulfportflorida.com/events
Each April, Gulfport transforms into an open-air studio as artists set up easels along sidewalks, beneath shady oaks, and beside the waterfront. For residents and visitors who happen upon them, it can feel like discovering a hidden moment of creativity – a painter capturing the marina, colorful cottages, or the changing light over the bay.
“Plein air,” a French phrase meaning in the open air, refers to painting outdoors directly from life. Instead of working from photographs, artists immerse themselves in the scene – the shifting light, the breeze off the water, and the everyday rhythm of the town.
As canvases slowly fill with color, familiar views begin to emerge: the curve of the shoreline, a banyan tree’s shade, a cottage porch, or boats rocking gently in the marina. It’s a rare chance to watch art take shape in real time while experiencing Gulfport through an artist’s eyes.
- April 11: Beyond the Beach Cleanup, with organizers Gulfport Grassroots and Keep Pinellas Beautiful, 9-11am. Meet at Beach Pavilion #4. Supply bags, pickers, pails, gloves, water, and more are provided. www.facebook.com/events/1666123201428582
- April 11: Swap & Drop, 9am-12pm, at the Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. Residents can dispose of unwanted household items and swap usable goods with neighbors to help reduce waste and encourage reuse and sustainability. For instructions, questions or additional details: 727.893.1118.
- April 12: New Horizons Concert Band of Gulfport presents a “A Spring Concert,” at the Hickman Theater, 3-5pm. There is no charge for admissions; donations are welcome. www.NewHorizonsBandGulfport.org
- April 16: Gulfport Poetry Open Mic Night (third Thursdays) at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S, from 6-7pm.
- April 18: Free Community Tree Giveaway, 9-11am, at Clymer Park (Greenway), 23rd Ave. S and Beach Blvd. S. Residents, please bring ID or a utility bill. Exploring the Future of Gulfport Beach team members will also be present to share information about nature-based solutions for coastal resiliency and to collect community surveys as we work to learn more about residents’ concerns regarding our beach. FMI: 727.892.1092.
*Every day: Residents and visitors are invited to explore the Discover Gulfport Walking Trail, a marked and self-guided route that highlights many of the places that make Gulfport special. The trail connects parks, historic sites, public spaces, and the waterfront, offering a relaxing way to experience the city step by step. With routes ranging from a shorter neighborhood loop to a longer path through parks and along the waterfront, walkers can choose their own pace while discovering familiar landmarks and hidden corners of the community. Lace up your walking shoes and come discover Gulfport from a new perspective. Maps and trail details are available through the city of Gulfport at: www.mygulfport.us/discover
A LOOK AHEAD…
- April 5: Easter Sunrise Service at the Gulfport Beach (Pavillion #6), Shore Blvd. S, 7-8am.
- May 20: Gulfport Neighborhood Watch, 6-8pm, at a new location, City Hall (Council Chambers)
- May 25: Memorial Day Commemoration, at Veteran’s Park, 5350 31st Ave. S, 2:30-3:30pm.
- May 28: City of Gulfport Hurricane Preparedness Seminar at the Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S, 6-8pm.
The Geckos have started whispering…
It’s the moment each year when the community begins to ask: What will the geckos dream up this time? The Gulfport Merchants Chamber has been preparing to reveal the theme for this year’s Gecko Ball and official artwork – the first exciting glimpse of the creativity that will shape the upcoming season of Gecko fun. The unveiling also launches the call for candidates for the next Gecko Queen, inviting community members with imagination, enthusiasm, and a love of Gulfport’s quirky traditions to step forward and take part in one of Gulfport’s most colorful traditions.
Gulfport Galleries & Art Openings…
- Brenda McMahon Gallery
First Friday art opening receptions with music, plus Third Friday art events and special events.
FMI: www.brendamcmahongallery.com 727-454-0453 / Facebook - DRV Gallery
First Friday art openings with music and Third Friday art events throughout the year.
FMI: www.drvgallery.com / 727-382-7004 / Facebook - August Vernon Gallery
FMI: www.augustvernon.com / gallery@augustvernon.com
412-953-3036 - First Friday Art Openings and Receptions –
Catherine A. Hickman Theater (Lobby Gallery)
FMI: www.mygulfport.us - Third Saturday Art Openings & Reception
Hosted by the Gulfport Merchants Chamber,
5317 Gulfport Blvd. S, 4-6pm. FMI: www.visitgulfportflorida.com
Live Music, Open Mics & Jams
Gulfport’s got rhythm! Here’s where to catch weekly open mic nights. See Gulfport Matters on Facebook for other music throughout the week:
- Mon. – North End Taphouse, 5:30-7:30pm
- Tues. – North End Taphouse, 7-10pm
- Thurs. – Gulfport Brewery, 6-9pm
- 1st & 7th – Blueberry Patch Open Mic
- 11th – Blueberry Patch Open Jam
*For more information, follow Gulfport Matters on Facebook and stay connected.