By Marlene Shaw
Living in Gulfport comes with its own rhythm – where sunny days are sometimes interrupted by the inevitable reality of tropical storms. Hurricane Helene struck Sept. 26. Last month, the Gulfport community braced itself as Tropical Storm Debby intensified into a Category 1 hurricane just before landfall. For some, the storm’s impact was felt deeply. Homes and businesses in low-lying areas were hit hard, but it was the boats anchored in Boca Ciega Bay that suffered the most. An estimated 20 boats broke free, washing ashore on Gulfport’s coast. Among this devastation, the community mourns the tragic loss of boater Brian Clough, who did not survive the storm. For others, the hurricane stripped away not just possessions but entire homes, leaving boaters without the shelter they’d come to rely on. Yet, in the midst of heartbreak, the Gulfport community did what it does best – came together. Neighbors reached out, offering meals, essentials, and helping hands.
As we rebuild and return to the rhythm of everyday life, it’s a powerful reminder that while we may weather storms together, we also thrive together. Gulfport is more than just a place – it’s a resilient community, a place where even in the darkest moments, hope and kindness shine through.
ALL THINGS GECKO IN AUGUST
August in Gulfport was alive with gecko fever, offering the perfect opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate in true Gulfport style. The Gecko Crawl, Gecko Ball, and, of course, GeckoFest, drew thousands of attendees who enjoyed the festivities from morning to night. Costumed revelers filled the streets, marching in the lively parade, while vendors and street entertainers added color and excitement to the day. Music echoed from two stages, complemented by performances at Gulfport’s local venues, and everywhere you looked, there were smiles. The spirit of GeckoFest brought everyone together, making it a highlight of the summer!
BRENDA MCMAHON GALLERY: A CELEBRATION OF ART AND AWARENESS
This Gulfport gallery, known for its exquisite fine art, contemporary crafts, and jewelry, showcases the work of 20 acclaimed artists alongside Brenda McMahon’s signature ceramic vessels and tiles. Each First Friday in Gulfport brings a fresh opportunity to feature a different artist, along with a stunning collection of ceramics, glass, paintings, sculpture, and jewelry.
On Oct. 4, from 6-9pm, Brenda will host her first solo exhibition – a deeply personal showcase of her works and inspirations from a five-week ceramic residency in Vallauris, France, this summer. The monthlong exhibit not only highlights her artistry, but also serves a greater cause, supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Proceeds will benefit the Sonia Plotnick Health Fund, making the exhibit both an artistic and philanthropic event.
Join us on Thursday, Oct. 17, for a fresh installment of the gallery’s monthly artist conversation series. In October, Leslie Bestulic, the September guest artist, will sit down with Brenda McMahon to discuss the profound impact of Brenda’s recent five-week residency in France. They’ll explore how this immersive experience has influenced Brenda’s creative process and enriched her artistry.
For more details on special October events, visit her website or find Brenda McMahon Gallery on Facebook.
DRV GALLERY REOPENS WITH ART, MUSIC AND WELLNESS
After a summer hiatus, the DRV Gallery is set to reopen on Oct. 4 from 5:3-8:30pm with a solo exhibition by local artist David Hosler. The evening will be filled with creative energy, featuring live music from Jim Gilmour and Joey Interrante, adding to the ambiance.
Kicking off something new, the gallery will also debut DRV Gallery Presents: Yoga for Artists on Oct. 6 at 9:30am, blending wellness with creativity. Following the yoga session, the gallery will open at 11am, showcasing works from seven talented regional artists.
For more information on the events, visit tinyurl.com/4mdmyfwj or explore their official website at www.drvgallery.com.
POETRY OPEN MIC WITH GULFPORT’S POET LAUREATE
Gulfport’s Poet Laureate, Christa Fairbrother, invites all poetry lovers to a monthly poetry open mic, held every third Thursday at Scout Hall from 7-8pm Whether you have a poem of your own to share or a favorite piece by another poet, all are welcome to participate or simply enjoy the readings in this creative community space.
49th ST. MAKERS AND GROWERS MARKET RETURNS TO RED FEATHER STUDIOS
Mark your calendar for Oct. 13, from 10am-2pm, as the 49th St. Makers and Growers Market makes its return to Red Feather Studios. This vibrant community market features a variety of farm-fresh goods, plants, herbal medicines, and delicious food and drinks. Enjoy live music and browse unique art in this lively studio and street market located at 1301 49th St. S.
A GULPORT WELCOME PROGRAM – OPEN TO ALL
Whether you’re a new resident or a long-time member of the Gulfport community, the Gulfport Welcome Program offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbors and become more familiar with the area. Designed to help everyone feel at home, the program provides a chance to meet city staff and community leaders, explore volunteer opportunities, and learn about local civic organizations and city services.
Join us for the next event on Friday, Oct. 18, from 6:30-8pm For more information, visit www.gulfportwelcome.com.
STORMRUNNERS TAVERN OPENS!
Excitement built as Stormrunners Tavern, the new bar and restaurant in town, prepared to open its doors on September 25. After extensive and unique renovations, this venue is set to become a local hotspot. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with the main floor restaurant and bar featuring garage door-style openings, the Crow’s Nest, and the dog-friendly BarK. Don’t miss out on exploring their diverse menu and experiencing the new space which is located at the intersection of Beach Blvd S and Shore Blvd. S, directly across from the Gulfport Casino Ballroom.
For more details, contact them at info@stormrunnerstavern.com or visit their Facebook page: Stormrunners Tavern.
NEW OWNERSHIP AT THE DRUNKEN TACO – READY FOR THE ULTIMATE TACO AND TEQUILA EXPERIENCE!
Exciting news – Drunken Taco has new ownership and they’re ready to deliver the right taco and tequila experience. Their menu promises creative tacos, handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of premium tequilas. Get ready for a fresh take on your favorite flavors! For more information, reach out to DrunkenTacoGulfport@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page: Drunken Taco – Gulfport.
DISCOVER Project FREE: EMPOWERING ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN GULFPORT
ProjectFREE, based in Gulfport, may not be new, but it’s certainly making a significant impact. Their mission is to implement a bold new concept for adults with disabilities who are eager to live and work independently while becoming integral members of the community.
Their comprehensive program includes academics, fitness, real-life training, and entrepreneurship opportunities, enabling participants to earn income and explore their potential. Balancing these elements with performing arts and music, ProjectFREE proudly states, “the results are priceless.” You may have caught them on the Blueberry Patch stage at GeckoFest, where they brought vibrant energy to the streets with diverse music and an engaging original song that had everyone joining in.
To learn more or get involved, reach out to ProjectFREE at contact@myprojectfree.org or visit their Facebook page.
COUNTRY COASTAL CREATIONS: A COLORFUL ADDITION TO GULFPORT
Country Coastal Creations is a vibrant shop offering an eclectic mix of items. From art consigned by local artists to redesigned and repurposed furnishings, clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, and more, this shop is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The more you browse, the more unique finds you’ll uncover.
They’re also excited to welcome more local artists to showcase their work. For more updates and to get involved, visit their Facebook page.
Don’t forget to follow Gulfport Matters on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gulfportmatters for all the latest happenings in Gulfport!