| December 16, 2024 | City of Gulfport, FL – Gateway to the Gulf Newsletter |
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| Upcoming Events See what’s happening this month. |
| Senior Center E-news Click here to see what’s happening next. |
| Library Calendar of Events Upcoming activities at the Gulfport Library. |
| Recreation Center Click here to see all classes and activities. |
| Casino Ballroom Weekly Dances Click here fo weekly dance schedule. |
| Gulfport Community Update Click here to read more. |
| Gulfport Arts & Heritage Click here to see upcoming events. |
| Understanding the FEMA 50% Rule Rebuilding After Storm Damage |
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| City Manager’s Gulfport Community Update |
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| Gulfport Community Update: December 8 – 14, 2024 Gulfport City Hall and facilities will be closed on Tuesday & Wednesday, December 24 & 25 in observance of Christmas, and Wednesday, January 1 in observance of the New Year. Tuesday’s Sanitation schedule will not be affected, and there will be no weekly yard waste pickup. The Gulfport Senior Center will offer Holiday Gift Wrapping Service to help take the stress out of your holiday season. Friendly elves will wrap your gifts for a suggested donation of $1-$5 per package. All proceeds support Senior Center programs and activities. The service will be available 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 17 and Monday, December 23. Enjoy some festive fun while the elves handle the wrapping, and know that your donations help fund the vibrant community programs at the Senior Center. For questions call 893-1244 or email mpscfoundation@tampabay.rr.com. It’s time again for Santa to make his list and check it twice for Gulfport Police Department’s Operation Santa, offering assistance to Gulfport residents. Applications will be accepted at the Gulfport Police Department, 2401 53rd Street, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday – Friday through December 18. For information or to donate unwrapped toys, cash/gift cards, etc., leave a message at 893-1097. |
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| Upcoming Official Meetings |
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| City of Gulfport: Meetings Calendar December 2024 - December 3, 2024 – Council Meeting – 6:00 pm (AGENDA)
- December 4, 2024 – Planning & Zoning Meeting – No Meeting
- December 10, 2024 – Senior Citizens Advisory Committee – 8:00 am -Senior Center – 5501 27th Ave S.
- December 11, 2024 – Board of Adjustment Meeting – 6:00pm (AGENDA)
- December 17, 2024 – Council Meeting – 6:00 pm (AGENDA)
- December 19, 2024 – Special Magistrate (If Necessary) – 9:30 am – City Hall, Council Chambers – 2401 53rd Street south, Gulfport, Florida 33707
- December 24-25, 2024 -City Hall Closed – Christmas Day Holiday
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All meetings are open to the public and are held in the City Hall, City Council Chambers, 2401 53rd Street South, In Person, unless otherwise noted. Meetings may occasionally be added, cancelled or rescheduled after this list is published. Please check the city’s website https://mygulfport.us for updated information. |
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| This Weeks Events & Meetings |
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| City of Gulfport Operation Santa December 2 – 18, 2024 This holiday season, the Gulfport Police Department continues its cherished tradition with “Operation Santa,” supporting local families in need. From December 2 – 18, residents are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys, gift cards, or monetary contributions at the Police Department, 2401 53rd St. S. Gulfport. Those seeking holiday assistance for children ages 0 to 10 can also apply during this time, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with required documentation. Gift pickups are December 19 – 20. For more information or to arrange large donations, please call 893-1097. |
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| | Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market Tuesday, December 17th | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Downtown Waterfront District, Beach Blvd. S. The City of Gulfport, in conjunction with the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce (GMC), will host a special, smaller-scale Tuesday Fresh Market on Tuesday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market will be located along the right-of-way on Beach Boulevard in downtown Gulfport. Enjoy a variety of local vendors and fresh goods in a cozy, community-oriented setting! |
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| | Ask a City Councilor at the Third Tuesday Fresh Market Tuesday, December 17th | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. SumitrA Espresso Lounge, 2838 Beach Blvd. S. (Change of Location) Gulfport City Council will be hosting an opportunity, every third Tuesday of the month, for residents to get to know their Councilmember, ask questions, and provide comment. For more information, please call City of Gulfport Councilmember, Ward 1 Representative, April Thanos at (727) 826-7138. |
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For questions, contact Amy Oatley mpscfoundation@tampabay.rr.com 727-893-1244 |
| | Holiday Gift Wrapping Service Tuesday, December 17th | 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave S Let us take the stress out of your holiday season! The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation is here to spread some holiday cheer. Friendly “elves” will wrap your holiday gifts for donations (Suggested Donation: $1–$5 per package). All proceeds go toward supporting programs and activities at the Senior Center. - Tuesday, December 17 | 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Monday, December 23 | 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Come hang out, enjoy some festive fun, and let us handle the wrapping while you relax. Your donations make a difference and help support the vibrant community programs that make the Senior Center a special place. |
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| | 4th Annual Holiday Model Train Exhibit Wednesday, December 18th & Friday, 20th 5pm-8pm | Private Home, 5314 10th Ave S Join us for a festive and enchanting holiday event at a beautifully decorated private home, featuring an incredible model train display that will captivate train enthusiasts and holiday lovers of all ages. This unique event supports a great cause—donations will be graciously accepted to benefit the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation Building Commitment Fund, helping to create a brighter future for our community’s seniors. For questions, contact Amy Oatley at 727-893-1244 or mpscfoundation@tampabay.rr.com. |
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| | Go Bananas for the Holidays Storytime Music Spectacular Thursday, December 19th | 10:30 a.m. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. For our final storytime of the year we welcome musical guest Shana Banana to the meeting room stage! Come dance and sing along to some holiday themed music. Please note there is only one session of storytime today instead of our usual two. For more information, please call 727-893-1074. |
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| | Campfire & Carols Friday, December 20th | 4:45 p.m. Gulfport Historical Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S.. Join us for this new twist on our traditional holiday party – a roving caroling event concluding with our festive cookie swap! Meet at Gulfport History Museum at 4:45pm sharp on Friday, December 20th to join the “caroling crawl” along Gulfport Boulevard, or meet us along the route. We’ll visit multiple businesses along Gulfport Boulevard to sing and enjoy holiday treats. Then we’ll reconvene at the fire pit behind the Museum to enjoy a roaring campfire, cookies, and a holiday sing-along. Bring your favorite cookies to share and camp chairs for relaxing by the fire. We will set them up and keep them secure until you return. Questions? Feel free to email us at amanda@gulfporthistoricalsociety.org. |
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| | 2024 Gulfport Yacht Club Series Regattas Saturday, December 21st | 1 – 6:30 p.m. Gulfport Yacht Club, 4638 Del Rio Way S. Club races (weather permitting) on the First and Third Saturday of the month on Boca Ciega Bay. Any DP-N rated boat up to 25 feet is welcome and we have a strong beach multihull presence (A-cat, Formula 18, Formula 16, Hobie 16, Weta etc.). Registration: Simply show up on a race day and sign in. Guests wishing to race their boats will pay $10.00 per boat and must have proof of liability insurance. After racing we hang out enjoying conversations and food at our club house. |
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| Upcoming Events & Meetings |
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| | Gulfport City Hall & Facilities Closed Gulfport City Hall and facilities will be closed on Tuesday & Wednesday, December 24 & 25 in observance of Christmas, and Wednesday, January 1 in observance of the New Year. Tuesday’s Sanitation schedule will not be affected, and there will be no weekly yard waste pickup. |
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RSVP Today! Email Jackie at slpeventstampabay@gmail.com or call (727) 831-2464 |
| | Gulfport Health & Wellness Expo Saturday, January 4th | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S. Kick off the New Year with a day dedicated to your health and wellness! This well-attended event offers FREE health screenings, demonstrations, and valuable resources tailored for seniors. Whether you’re looking to stay informed about Medicare, health services, fitness options, financial planning, housing, or alternative healthcare, this expo has it all. Special Features Include: - Live entertainment by Steve Roman and Friends, performing a spectacular tribute to the Rat Pack.
- Health screenings and services provided by participating vendors.
- The Big Red Bus for blood donations.
- Gulfport’s Operation Medicine Cabinet, where you can safely dispose of unwanted prescriptions.
- Exciting door prizes, refreshments, and more!
Don’t miss this opportunity to gather essential health and wellness information while enjoying a fun, social event. to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to see you there! |
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| | Gulfport Neighborhood Watch Meetings Wednesday, January 8th | 6 p.m. Every second Wednesday of each month Scout Hall, 5315 28th Ave. S. For more information, please contact Mr. Jim Wright Neighborhood Watch Coordinator at 727-893-1022 or jwright@mygulfport.us. |
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| | Gulfport Community Players present “Four Old Broads” January 16 – 26 | Thurs – Sat at 8 PM, Sat & Sun at 2 PM | Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. Get ready for a hilarious adventure at the Gulfport Community Players as they present “Four Old Broads” — a delightful comedy full of mystery, laughs, and twists. Things have not been going well at Magnolia Place Assisted Living since Nurse Pat Jones arrived. A sinister air surrounds her presence, and residents have mysteriously been moved to “the dark side.” Four quick-witted and determined senior women decide to get to the bottom of it. With plenty of laughs, a touch of suspense, and the bond of friendship, these four old broads work together to outsmart the evil nurse and uncover the truth. |
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| | A Gulfport Welcome Friday, January 17th | 6:30 p.m. 49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S. A Gulfport Welcome is a community program that creates a welcoming environment for new residents in Gulfport. This quarterly event is an opportunity to meet city staff and community leaders, gather information about volunteer opportunities and civic organizations and learn to navigate city services. By giving everyone a chance to discover our city and ask questions, we can foster a more engaged community. Even if you’re just visiting or passing through, we hope you feel included in all we have to offer. There is a place for everyone in weird, wacky, wonderful Gulfport! |
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If you have any questions, contact Amy Oatley at mpscfoundation@tampabay.rr.com or call 727-893-1244. Don’t miss out on the fun, this is an event you won’t want to miss! |
| | Love & Luck Casino Night Fundraiser Friday, January 31st | 5 – 9 p.m. The Maria Center, 5800 15th Ave S Get ready for a tropical evening of fun, games, and prizes at our Jimmy Buffett-themed Casino Night! This unforgettable night will transport you to paradise, all while supporting an incredible cause. Come dressed in your best island attire, and get ready to roll the dice, hit 21, and enjoy a variety of thrilling casino games. Event Highlights: - Casino Games (Blackjack, Roulette, Poker & more!)
- Live Music to set the mood
- Tropical Drinks and Delicious Bites
- Exciting Prizes
- Beachy Vibes and good times
Mark your calendars for a night you won’t forget! Tickets are just $75, and you can get yours now through the link below. Enjoy a fun-filled evening with tropical drinks, delicious bites, and exciting prizes, all while supporting a great cause. |
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| Gulfport History Museum Online Collection View the Museum’s online collection here. |
| Latest Beach Water Quality Sampling Data See the latest report here. |
| Public Cameras Check out our live streaming cameras here! |
| Gulfport Charter & Code of Ordinances Online access is provided at the following link. |
| Bill Payment Options View and pay Utility & Marina Billing accounts online here. |
| Employee Directory Click here to view the Gulfport Employee Directory. |
| FDEM Residential Mitigation – Elevate Florida The goal of this program is to enhance community resilience by mitigating private residences against natural hazards. |
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| On Friday, October 4, 2024, at 8:00 AM, the City of Gulfport waived all Building Department Construction Permit Fees. The Temporary Waiver of Building Permit Fees will now remain in effect through December 2024. For more information or to apply for a permit, please visit the Gulfport Building Department at https://mygulfport.us/community-development/. |
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| | Call to Artists: Watercolor Instructors Wanted The Gulfport Arts Center is looking for experienced watercolor artists and instructors to teach community workshop within this particular field of specialty! Currently, applicants must be a resident of Gulfport in order to be considered. Those who are interested may apply on our website, https://mygulfport.us/art-center-application/. |
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| Rebuild Florida is Florida’s long-term disaster recovery effort, committed to rebuilding impacted communities stronger so they are more resilient to future storms. The Hurricane Ian Rebuild Florida Housing Repair and Replacement Program is a state program launched with federal funding to repair, rebuild, or replace eligible homes with remaining damage from Hurricane Ian. If you were impacted by Hurricanes Helene or Milton, you may still be eligible for assistance under the Hurricane Ian Housing Repair and Replacement Program. Rebuild Florida is currently accepting applications. Priority will be given to homeowners with a low income and households that include children under 18, seniors aged 62 and older, or individuals with disabilities. |
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| Care About Me confidentially helps all residents of all ages, insured or not, by eliminating the guesswork or need to search for local behavioral health services by creating a space where residents or family members of individuals in non-crisis can call in, speak directly with experienced behavioral health specialists who can triage their needs, and get an appointment scheduled with a local provider. For more information, visit https://careaboutme.org or call 1-888-431-1998. |
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| Gulfport History Museum Operating Hours- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Thursday: 12 – 4 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Saturday: Noon – 4 p.m. (1st and 3rd Saturdays)
- Sunday: Closed
727-201-8687 | historymuseum@mygulfport.us |
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| Gulfport provides once-a-week collection of household recyclables. Curbside service is provided to all single-family and duplex homes, apartment/condo complexes, mobile home parks and smaller businesses. Items collected are plastic containers and jugs, steel cans, aluminum cans, mixed paper, cardboard and newspaper. A drop-off center is located at the Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th Street South, for glass containers (all colors), mixed paper, and cardboard. It is open 24 hours / 7 days a week.For more information, visit https://mygulfport.us/public-works-department. |
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| City of Gulfport Special Events Trolley/WRD Looper The City of Gulfport Special Events Trolley/Waterfront Redevelopment District (WRD) Looper services large-scale special events and the First Friday and Third Saturday ArtWalks from 5 to 9 p.m. throughout the year. For more information and to view all of the Loopers convenient pickup spots, please visit https://mygulfport.us/trolley/. |
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| The Gulfport Public Works Department located at the 49th Street Neighborhood Center (1617 49th St. S.) is an official collection site for rechargeable batteries! For more information, please call 727-893-1089 or visit https://mygulfport.us/public-works-department/. |
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| The City of Gulfport Private Waterline and Sewer Lateral Replacement Assistance Program offers financial reimbursement after the replacement of a deteriorated residential waterline or sewer lateral. City Utilities residential water or sewer customers are eligible for a rebate of 50% up to $3,500.00 after the purchase, installation, and inspection of failing waterlines or sewer lateral between the home connection and the city connection. |
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| The City of Gulfport Senior Center’s Telephone Reassurance Program is a free service for Gulfport Residents 50 years of age or older. Volunteers provide daily phone calls to registered members and provide comfort, security, and peace of mind to members and families. Registration is simple and free. If you or someone you know could benefit from this service during this difficult time, please call (727) 893-2237 and register today. |
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| GEMS door-to-door transportation has provided independence & freedom to elderly and disabled residents of Gulfport for over 40 years. Any Gulfport residents 55 & older or residents with a disability can take advantage of GEMS door to door service for a yearly membership of $70 plus $2 per one-way trip. For more information, call 893-2242. |
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Veterans Park 5350 31st Ave S. |
| Veterans Park Memorial Ribbon Campaign The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation has installed a memorial ribbon in the Gulfport Veterans Park as a fundraiser to support programs and services of the Senior Center. The meandering ribbon of engraved bricks will connect the sidewalk to the flagpole base at the beautiful waterfront park. The public is invited to purchase a brick to honor or memorialize a friend or family member, veteran or non-veteran. Engraved bricks will be a permanent part of the Gulfport Veterans Memorial Park. For more information, please visit https://gulfportseniorfoundation.org/2021/08/coming-soon/. |
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| Resources for Renters Know your rights and where to get help when making rental decisions. This page is designed to help people who are struggling with the rising cost of housing find available help and learn about their rights as a renter. You can also find information on assistance with homeownership. |
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| | Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S. | 727-893-5657 Monday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center actively seeks to support the independence and increased quality of life of its participants by encouraging involvement in programs and activities that promote health, welfare, safety and dignity. The Gulfport Senior Center is Gulfport’s trusted leader in providing senior services that empower older adults to live life to the fullest. The Senior Center is a hub and gathering place for seniors to be socially engaged, physically challenged, and cognitively stimulated. It also serves as a clearinghouse for older adults to receive community resources and social services that help them maintain their independence and quality of life. Required Registration is easy and available for all individuals 50 years of age or older. Free for Gulfport Residents and only $50 per year for non-Residents. Don’t wait, be a part of the club today! |
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| | Utility Customer Service Department 2401 53rd St. S. | 727-893-1016 Monday – Friday, 8am–4:30pm The City’s Utility Customer Service Department is located at the City Hall Complex. You can drop your utility payment off during normal business hours at the Customer Service window, and after hours you may drop payments at the drop box located by the front door of the City Hall Complex. When paying your utility bill in person or dropping off the payment, please bring or enclose your utility stub to ensure accurate payment processing. |
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| | City of Gulfport – Parks Department The City of Gulfport takes tremendous pride in its park system. The Parks Division improves and maintains the quality of life within the community in environmental landscaping and turf maintenance. The division continues to create safe and aesthetically pleasing recreational facilities for all to enjoy. Please visit https://mygulfport.us/recreation/parks/ for more information. |
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Kathy Burnam
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