Gulfport Chefs Table grows and feeds multitudes to raise money for charity

Wow! What a turnout for such a worthy event. This wonderful and dramatic photo was in The Gabber showing the Chefs Table in downtown Gulfport. The event, now in it's second year, donates proceeds to Gulfport Montessori Elementary School. The weather was perfect. Some 360 diners enjoyed delicious dishes from 10 fine Gulfport restaurants. Debbie Wolfe did a terrific story and many wonderful photos. Check it out.

Here's an example of how to build a strong community: participation at the local school

People are making a difference in our community every day. We were intrigued by this story in The Gabber about Gulfport Montessori Elementary School. That's Jess Hathaway in the photo. He's showing off a mural created by students in the after-school program at the school. The story talks about the school's progress on the standardized state tests, which is admirable, of course. Way down in the story, though, is this: a new initiative last year has city employees and Stetson Law students mentoring kids. What's more, the community is pitching in to help raise money for the PTA to carry out its improvement projects. Participation makes strong communities. Bravo!

Gulfport Montessori Elementary School has big changes and many great expectations

Expect to see lots of change at Gulfport Montessori Elementary this school year. The facility has a new principal, Jeff Hathaway, and nearly a whole new staff.  “There are some great families and some great kids here,” he told The Gabber. He said he doesn’t believe the D grade the school has had the last few years indicates what’s really going on at the school. “I don’t think that grade reflects this community or this building or the population that’s here at all.” The campus has been spruced up, including a new garden, painting and power washing, new landscaping, and picnic tables for parents and kids. There's a new computer lab, a reorganized library/media center, and a new space for the PTA. There's lots more to the transformation. Read the article. Can't wait to see the results!