Since being sworn in as your councilmember, one of the most frequent questions I get is: “How’s it going? Do you like it?”
The short answer? It feels very natural—like I’m right where I’m supposed to be.
From day one, I’ve stayed busy and deeply engaged. We’ve already had several council meetings and a workshop, and I meet weekly with our city manager—who’s been gracious in inviting staff members into conversations to help answer specific questions and deepen understanding. Those conversations are invaluable and ongoing.
I continue to attend community events, host “What’s on Your Mind?” sessions to hear directly from you and meet one-on-one with residents to learn more about your experiences, ideas, and concerns. I get emails, phone calls, and even photos from neighbors. And yes, I do my own share of driving around town and taking pictures—because staying in touch with what’s really happening on the ground matters. True to my word, I share folks input and concerns with the council and/or city manager.
Behind the scenes, I’m reading, researching, asking questions, and submitting reports. And I’m still writing the Gulfport Matters articles for Paradise News and managing Gulfport Matters, the social media that celebrates our city and its spirit.
Public service takes time, energy, and heart—and I’m fully committed to showing up, listening closely, and working hard every day. It’s an honor to serve, and I thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me.
Staying Engaged with Our Community
What continues to ground me in this role is staying connected to the people, places, and pulse of Gulfport. I make it a priority to attend events, support community initiatives, and represent our city with pride—and it’s been a joy to be part of so many meaningful moments these past few months.
From our Arbor Day Celebration and Spring Celebration at the Rec Center to Memorial Day, Flag Day, and the Pride Flag Raising, each gathering has reminded me of the heart and diversity of our community.
I’ve attended Gulfport Merchants Chamber Mixers the Midtown Business Collective Networking Meetings, city town halls and workshops, our Hurricane Prep Seminar, toured the fire department (where I even got to replace an old smoke alarm thanks to a great program), and joined Marine Officer Chastain for a ride-along to better understand our public safety efforts.
From visiting our local markets, attending Open Mic Poetry Night at the Library (as council liaison to our Poet Laureate), to joining the Pickleball Club get-together, art openings, Gulfport Community Players performances (and serving on the Cathy Awards committee), I continue to show up where community happens.
It was an honor to represent Gulfport in the St. Pete Pride Parade trolley, attend grand openings of local businesses, celebrate Juneteenth with Kiwanis, join the parade and crowd at Independence Day festivities, and connect with artists at events like We the People at the Brenda McMahon Gallery and shows at the Hickman Theater and our local galleries.
Beyond events, I also seek out learning and networking opportunities that bring value back to our community:
- Completed the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials 2-day course for new councilmembers.
- Participated in LIFT (Life Intervention Focus Team) meetings focused on connecting residents with social support.
- Attended the Community Development Block Grant public meeting.
- Engaged with the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council Resiliency Summit in Bradenton and also a Kick-off session presented at Stetson.
- Took part in Suncoast League of Cities meetings and receptions.
- Joined Sierra Club virtual sessions on local environmental topics.
Of course, it’s not possible to be everywhere every time—but I do my best to stay present, informed, and involved wherever I can.
In closing, local government works best when we show up for each other—not just at meetings, but in everyday conversations, kindness, and collaboration. I encourage you to stay involved, stay curious, and stay connected—not only with me, but with one another. It’s that spirit that makes Gulfport special.
Drop by one of my regularly scheduled “What’s on Your Mind?” or you can always reach me by email, phone or we can sort a time to meet in person. I’m here to listen, to help, and to work alongside you. And if I don’t know the answer—I’ll ask. This is your city, your council, your voice. Let’s keep the conversation going.