What’s Happening in Your Parks, Charleston, SC
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CRUISERS NET
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Comprehensive cruising resource for the Intracoastal Waterways
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
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AIWA December 2024 Newsletter
Cruisers Net is proud to be a member of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association whose lobbying work is crucial to keeping the Waterway navigable and safe. Your membership dollars directly support their vital work. Please join and encourage your boating neighbors to do likewise, regardless of their homeport.
Celebrating 25 Years of Success at the AIWA 25th Anniversary Meeting November 18-20, 2024
Charleston, SC
The AIWA 25th Anniversary Annual Meeting was a celebratory success with over 80 participants representing 41 different organizations. Communication and collaboration was the focus of this pivotal gathering for the Association. Three of the program’s main goals were a look back at our accomplishments and waterway changes in the past, assess the current state of the waterway with current efforts, and explore new challenges and opportunities for the next 25 years. With support from a distinguished group of presenters, we achieved these goals as we now begin our next 25 years! The meeting began with presentations from our federal partners at the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Maritime Administration of the U.S. DOT (MARAD) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Their presentations covered a variety of topics including:
- A keynote presentation by USCG Captain Frank DelRusso, Commander of Sector Charleston, on Sector Charleston activities and opportunities to participate in USCG efforts through collaboration and participation in local stakeholder groups
- An update on the National Navigation Program and Beneficial Use of Dredged Material by Katie Brutsche from USACE Headquarters, including a specific presentation on their Engineering with Nature program by Safra Altman
- The history of funding and waterway projects over the past 15 years from USACE Divisions
- State of the Waterway presentations of recently completed projects and upcoming projects for all USACE Districts along the waterway in 2025
- An update on the Marine Highways program from MARAD by Fred Jones
- An update on survey and response programs including the Francis Scott Key Bridge response from NOAA by James Kirkpatrick
After hearing from our federal partners, we invited Mike Sayre from the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas to highlight the connections between the marine manufacturers and the boating community. We concluded with a joint presentation from Julie Ufner of the National Waterways Conference and Brian Vahey of the American Waterways Operators providing a high-level perspective on Washington, DC and upcoming changes in the next Congress and Administration.
Day two began with a presentation on the path of progress for new technologies and capacities in surveying and monitoring by our partners Lou Nash of Measutronics and Mike Carris of Trimble. Their presentation offered a great bridge from day one as they identified how constant innovation has led to efficiencies and accuracy in moving waterway maintenance projects forward as we look to move the AIWA forward.
Moving from management and planning to waterway dredging with our industry panel, we invited Devon Carlock of Cottrell Contracting Corporation, Stan Ekren of Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, Craig Seibert of Southwind Construction and Chris Gillespie of Marinex Construction to share challenges and opportunities in dredge operations. Key takeaways included investments by the dredging industry to increase capacity, safety enhancements and concerns, and efforts to streamline bidding and contracting for federal projects.
Continuing to build on recent successes along the waterway with the innovative use of dredged material, we invited Krystyna Powell from USACE to highlight regulatory challenges and Ram Mohan and Rob Holmes to showcase efforts underway to expand the use of natural systems to increase coastal resiliency. The AIWA is proud to support the efforts at the University of Georgia’s Institute for Resilient Infrastructure Systems, and serve on the Technical Advisory Committee for the Tidelands Project led by Auburn University, University of Pennsylvania and University of Virginia.
Our final panel highlighted key areas we believe the AIWA can make a difference in waterway advocacy over the next 25 years. They include communication and coordination on bridge replacement projects that impact vessel movement through the waterway, encroachment and access along the waterway, and safety of dredge operations through increased education to our recreational community. These discussions were led by Hal Pitts at USCG District 5, Janet Zimmerman from the Florida Inland Navigation District and Devon Carlock of Cottrell Contracting.
We want to thank all of our speakers, sponsors and attendees for your participation in our 25th Anniversary meeting. Anchors aweigh for another 25 years!
Photos CW USCG Captain Frank DelRusso | Brad Pickel, Vance Hull, Devon Carlock | AIWA 25th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Charleston, SC | Dylan Davis, USACE-SAD Click here for Annual Meeting PowerPoint Presentations 
What We’re Watching in Washington, DC:
Second Continuing Resolution Congressional Vote
Yesterday on January 17th, Congressional leaders released a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government until March 14th. This is the second CR they have passed for FY 2025. The first was signed into law on September 26. The first CR expires on December 20th so Congress must pass this bill by Friday or the federal government will shut down. While a second CR was not unexpected, we waited until the bill was released to try and identify impacts to the waterway.
The next step in the process is for the House of Representatives to vote on the CR and forward the bill for a vote by the U.S. Senate. While the CR will likely be signed into law before Christmas (and hopefully by Friday), there are concerns with the bill language that could delay its passage. The concerns are primarily based on the additional programs and funding increases that were included on the bill in lieu of passing only a continuation of funding at current levels.
One item of note for the waterway is that the bill includes over $100 billion in disaster relief, of which a portion will be allocated to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. USACE will be required to submit a work plan with identified projects within 60 days after bill passage and this could include funding for dredging projects along the waterway that were impacted by hurricanes.
The table below reflects the current breakdown of funding as it stands today. In addition, the House and Senate have also included the following amounts in the Additional Dredging Needs funding pots which we are eligible to receive.
- General Navigation – House: $931.945 million, Senate: $20 million
- Inland Waterways – House: $50 million, Senate: $64.987 million
- Small, Remote & Subsistence Navigation – House: $90 million, Senate: $329,178 million
We will await passage of the next appropriations bill before we are able to identify our final funding amounts for FY25. However, the good news is that contracted work continues on the waterway and we are not yet facing impacts from this delay.
Happy Holidays from the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association
Photo above from Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC) Boat Parade 2024
Copyright © 2024. Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association. All rights reserved. The AIWA is a national non-profit organization with the mission of securing funding and support for the maintenance of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. We are the only organization dedicated to ensuring the future of the AIWW and proudly represent all stakeholders of the waterway.
Contact:
Atlantic Instracoastal Waterway Association
5a Market | Beaufort, SC 29906
(843) 379-1151 | atlanticintracoastal.orgThis email was sent to ldorminy@gmail.com
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Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association · 5A Market · Beaufort, SC 29906-9107 · USABe the first to comment!
Charleston County Parks 2025 Special Events Calendar
Click here for 2025 Special Events Calendar as of 12-17-2024
Sarah Reynolds Public Information Coordinator Headquarters 861 Riverland Dr , Charleston , SC 29412 Office: +1 8437628089 Sarah.Reynolds@ccprc.com | CharlestonCountyParks.com Be the first to comment!
Merry Christmas! Up to 40% Off a Florida Keys Vacation, Key Lime Sailing Club, Key Largo, FL
Key Lime Sailing Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, always has very special offers for their visitors! Key Lime Sailing Club is a unique slice of KEYS ENJOYMENT…give it a try and let us hear about your experience.
This holiday season, the USA is going through some economically trying times, and here at Key Lime Sailing Club, we’re facing some unprecedented challenges as well. To help make a relaxing getaway more affordable, we’re offering the following special discounts on stays starting on December 18, 2024, and ending on December 27, 2024: - 15% off for stays of 3 nights
- 25% off for stays of 5 nights
- 40% off for stays of 7 nights
This offer is for new bookings only, and we hope it helps make a holiday vacation in the Florida Keys more accessible for you and your loved ones.
Want to compute how much you’ll save for this vacation with this deal? Click here to use our Cottage Cost Estimator and start planning your stay!
If you’ve been thinking a Christmas vacation wasn’t possible this year, Merry Christmas from the Key Lime Crew! We hope this offer brings it within reach.
Questions? Call or text Irene at 305-451-3438 or reply to this email—we’re here to help.
P.S. Ask Irene about getting on our list for any last-minute discounts that we might share later this season or next year. We’ll do what we can to help you plan your dream vacation.
Thank you so much to everyone for your support!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Warm regards,
The Key Lime Crew
Cast Your Vote for Your Favorite Photos Today!
The voting period for our Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages Photo Contest is still ongoing, and we invite you to participate! Our guests have captured incredible moments during their stays, and now it’s your turn to help choose the winner. Visit our Facebook page to view all the qualified entries and vote for your favorites by clicking the “Like” button.
You can “Like” as many photos as you want and even encourage your friends to join in the fun. The photo with the most Facebook “Likes” by January 1, 2024, at 12:00 am EST will win, and the owner of the winning photo will receive a FREE 3-night stay at Key Lime Sailing Club. Winners of both the Photo Contest and Video Contest will be announced on January 2, 2024, through Facebook and our email newsletter.
Thank you to all our amazing guests who have shared their beautiful photos and videos with us! We’re thrilled to be part of your cherished memories in Key Largo. Good luck to all participants, and let the voting continue!
Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages | 305-451-3438 | 99306 Overseas Highway, Key Largo Florida | www.keylimesailingclub.com
Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages | 99306 Overseas Highway | Key Largo, FL 33037 US Be the first to comment!
Gulf of Mexico Offshore Wind Competition Heats Up – gCaptain Weekly
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has confirmed competitive interest in two offshore wind areas (WEAs) off the southeast…
gCaptain OffShoreBe the first to comment!
Wally Moran, Boating Rights Crusader. OpEd by Peter Swanson
Cruisers Net has always reported Wally Moran’s fights for boaters’ rights (See most recent Anchoring in Northern Lake Worth and Urgent: Anchoring Rights meeting in early January), because we believed his causes to be justified. Until Peter Swanson’s report below, we were unaware of criminal charges against Wally. The title to this posting is ours, not Peter’s.
. When all else fails, try journalism.
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Fishermen’s Village January 2025 Calendars, Punta Gorda, FL
There is always plenty to do around Charlotte Harbor. While berthed at Fishermen’s Village Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, you are certain to enjoy visiting Western Florida’s beautiful Charlotte Harbor/Peace River.
Fishermen’s Village January Calendars of Entertainment/Events
Click here for January 2025 Center Court Calendar and January 2025 Sunset Beach Club Calendar
Kathy Burnam
Special Events & Community Relations941.639.8721
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers Net Marina Directory Listing For Fishermen’s Village
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Fishermen’s Village
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Happy Holidays from The Watch
News you can use from NOAA Planet Stewards
December 17, 2024
The Watch is taking a short winter break. It will return to your inbox in January with:
Inspirational Planet Stewards projects!
Thought provoking books you can discuss at Book Club meetings with educators from across the country!
New opportunities and resources for educators and students.
Until then, enjoy your well deserved winter break and the holiday season!
Happy New Year, see you in 2025!
Sign up to receive The Watch and invitations to future events.
NOAA Planet Stewards
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North Carolina Coastal Federation Earns Highest Ratings
Dear Larry, Every year, the independent nonprofit ratings agencies Charity Navigator and Candid Guidestar evaluate charities nationwide based on fiscal transparency, accountability, and effectiveness.
We are thrilled to share that this year the Coastal Federation earned the highest ratings from both Charity Navigator and the Candid Guidestar. Review the details on Charity Navigator and Candid Guidestar.
As a Federation supporter, you can be proud to support an organization earning top marks nationwide. If you are considering making an additional gift during this season of giving, you can be confident that your donation will be put to good use.
Thank you for your support, and Happy Holidays!
— Your Friends at the North Carolina Coastal Federation
P.S. Thinking about a celebratory gift?
Holiday_Shop Give_Today Gift_Membership News | Events | Give | Coastal Review | Forward to a Friend | Subscribe North Carolina Coastal Federation
3609 Highway 24 (Ocean) Newport, NC 28570
252-393-8185www.nccoast.org Be the first to comment!
AGLCA’s Facebook Page Hacked – Reported by Peter Swanson
Our thanks to Peter Swanson for alerting us to this malicious attack.
The American Great Loop Cruisers Association’s public Facebook page has been taken over by malicious actors, and its administrators go by the names Chaudry Mubashar and Raja Mehboob.
“The Great Loop public Facebook group was hacked sometime between about 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. Eastern Time on December 13, 2024. We recognized the problem within about an hour.” said Kim Russo, executive director of the AGLCA.
“The hackers replaced our admins with people unknown to us. We contacted Facebook support immediately and will continue to do so until we get resolution. Facebook support has assured us multiple times that they are working on it,” she said.
Russo said the descriptives “hostile takeover” and “malicious actors” were overly dramatic. Nevertheless, she urged the page’s 161,000 followers to exercise caution.
“So far, we can spot nothing malicious aimed at individual group members. The hackers are not impersonating AGLCA,” Russo said. “However, AGLCA recommends members of the association move to our members-only, private Facebook group and leave the public group, or refrain from posting until we’ve regained control.”
Made aware of the hack, cruiser Sean Welsh posted warnings on other Facebook cruiser groups on the theory that some of them were also followers of the AGLCA’s public page. He surmised that any post to that effect on the hacked page would be promptly taken down by the new admins and that he would be blocked.
Here is Peter’s full report:
Meet Chaudry & Raja, New Admins for a Great Loop Facebook Page
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December 16, 2024 Weekly Email Newsletter, City of Gulfport, Boca Ciega Bay, FL
Gulfport Municipal Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, and the City of Gulfport always have a full calendar of events for all ages. The marina and harbor, found on the northern shores of Boca Ciega Bay, are easily accessible from the Western Florida ICW, just north of Tampa Bay.
Weekly news & updates 
December 16, 2024 | City of Gulfport, FL – Gateway to the Gulf Newsletter 
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
FEMA Help Gulfport City Council Mayor
Sam Henderson
826-7208
Ward 1
April Thanos
826-7138
Ward 2
Christine Brown
826-7311
Ward 3
Paul
Ray
262-2479
Ward 4 Michael Fridovich
826-7355
City Manager’s Gulfport Community Update 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.
Read more Upcoming Official Meetings 
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
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.
This Weeks Events & Meetings 
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.
Visit our Website 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!
More Info 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.
More Info 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.
More Info 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.
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.
View Route 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.
More Info 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.
Upcoming Events & Meetings 
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.
More Info 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!
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.
Tickets & Info 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.
More Info 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!
Tickets & Info 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.
Community Outreach 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.
Learn More 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/.
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/.
Learn More 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.
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.
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
Gulfport Arts Center Open Studio Hours Gulfport Arts Center, 2726 54th St. S.
- Tuesday: 3 – 7 p.m
- Wednesday: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (1st and 3rd Saturdays only)
Due to extreme drought conditions, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) will limit Pinellas County residents, including the City of Gulfport, to once-a-week lawn watering through December 31, 2024.
For more information on the District Water Restrictions, please visit https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/business/epermitting/district-water-restrictions.
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.
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/.
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/.
Learn more 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.
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.
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.
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/.
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.
Learn more 
Learn more 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!
Learn More 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.
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.
City of Gulfport, Florida | https://mygulfport.us/ 
City of Gulfport Florida | 2401 53rd Street South | Gulfport, FL 33707 US Be the first to comment!
NEWS TIP From BoatUS: 2025 Bicentennial of the Erie Canal
BoatUS is the leading advocate for boating safety in the US and A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR.
NEWS TIP From BoatUS
Dear Media and Friends of BoatUS Public Affairs-
I’d like to make you aware of a significant commemoration taking place in New York State in 2025 – the Bicentennial of the Erie Canal. There will be much to offer recreational boaters in this historic year as communities along the entire 524-mile New York State Canal system are expected to roll out the red carpet to boaters, whether they may be interested in cruising a length of the canal or just checking out waters by trailer boat for the day or weekend.
I am reaching out to you with this news tip as BoatUS is a sponsor of the celebration and our TowBoatUS Oneida/Rochester, Buffalo, and Oswego teams will be involved as well. I am also a New York State resident who welcomes boaters to my home state, perhaps looking to visit the canal for their first time. Nearly 200 years ago, the Erie Canal opened forever making a monumental impact on the of growth New York State and even more importantly, the entire nation.
Today, the Canal system is a premier recreational boat waterway, with historic infrastructure that mostly still runs on simple waterpower, offering a ribbon of navigable canals, locks, rivers, and lakes across upstate New York connecting the East Coast with the Great Lakes and Canada that provide a cruising experience found nowhere else in America. The villages, towns, and cities that line her shores offer a wealth of tourism opportunities for visiting boaters, and I hope you have a chance to highlight this momentous year and incredible boating experience available to your readers and friends.
The culmination of the 2025 summer boating season will see the World Canals Conference [visit here to sign-up for information and updates: https://wcc2025buffalo.com] in Buffalo in September, along with the transit from Buffalo to New York City of the historic, newly-launched canal boat replica, the 73-foot Seneca Chief, which will symbolize Governor Dewitt Clinton’s historic opening voyage 200 years ago. Boaters will be welcomed to join a flotilla or regional parade(s) to accompany the Seneca Chief. More details will be fleshed out in the next couple of months.
If you’d like to start to know more, feel free to contact my friends at:
Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor: Jean MacKay, jean_mackay@eriecanalway.org
New York State Canal Corporation / New York Power Authority: Shane Mahar, shane.mahar@nypa.govI am positive a short discussion with Jean or Shane could help you flesh out a story or news item. Feel free to let them know Scott sent you and hope to see you in New York this summer!
Thanks-
Scott
Scott Croft
Vice President Public Affairs
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS)
5323 Port Royal Rd.
Springfield, VA 22151
scroft@boatus.com
703-461-2864Be the first to comment!
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