Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes unveils a commissioned painting by Charles Buckley in honor of the Gulfport 125th Anniversary - July 2023 (Photo from City of Gulfport Mayor's office on Facebook)
The Coastal Mississippi city hopes to create a symbol representing its resilience and unity.
The City of Gulfport has convened a Flag Commission to design a “modern city flag that captures Gulfport’s vibrant heritage and progress.”
Mayor Billy Hewes said in a statement that the city is embarking on a defining project to create a flag representing the Coast city’s resilience and unity.
“The commission is central to this endeavor, channeling the community’s input into a symbol representing Gulfport for generations,” said Mayor Hewes.
Frank Bordeaux will chair the city’s flag commission. Bordeaux, who also serves as the chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party, served on the Mississippi Flag Commission when the new state flag was adopted.
Bordeaux said he plans to steer the commission in harnessing extensive community feedback to craft a flag symbolic of Gulfport’s unique spirit and future vision.
“Having experienced the unifying power of a flag in Mississippi, I am honored to lead an effort that will reflect and celebrate the essence of Gulfport today while laying a foundation for tomorrow,” said Bordeaux in a statement.
Serving as Vice Chairman of the flag commission will be Glen East, Superintendent of Gulfport School District. He said it was important to have educational involvement in the process.
“Gulfport’s educational community is a pillar of innovation,” East said. “I am excited to see our students and educators play a pivotal role in creating a new city flag, leaving a lasting educational legacy.”
Other members of the Gulfport Flag Commission include:
- Virginia Adolph
- James Edward Bates
- Natalie Kaigler
- Dr. John Kelly
- Patrice Lombard
- Margaret Murdock
- Kameron Weaver (Student Representative)
State Rep. Jeffrey Hulum and City Council President Rusty Walker will serve as ex-officio members.
The City is inviting all residents to participate in the endeavor, and says more information will be available on the Commission’s upcoming community events and student contests.
