Gulfport Seeks Candidates For Gecko Queen

GULFPORT, FL – Summer is kicking up across southern Pinellas County, which means the return of geckos to Gulfport.

However, instead of an invasion of reptiles, Gulfport is gearing up to celebrate its mascot during GeckoFest and numerous other events in August and September. Meanwhile, the Gecko Ball committee has begun seeking candidates to become the next leader of the Gecko world.

Gulfport’s fifth Gecko Queen will be crowned at this year’s Gecko Ball on Saturday, Aug. 26. The Gecko Queen represents Gulfport throughout the year at events including GeckoFest, Gecko Crawl, Gulfport July 4th and the St. Pete Pride Parade.

Candidates for Gecko Queen should prepare a costume for this year’s theme of Geckostock (Woodstock, hippies and all things 1960s). The Queen is expected to appear in full costume while attending public events and must become accustomed to frequent bows and curtsies from his or her subjects.

The Gecko Queen is a gender-neutral honorary position open to anyone age 21 and older. The most important qualification is being able to represent Gulfport with flair.

The Queen will be chosen from among interested candidates by members of the Gecko Ball Committee. Candidates who submitted an expression of interest in previous years are allowed to reapply.

The deadline to contact the Gecko Ball Committee about interest in becoming the Gecko Queen is Saturday, July 15.

To express interest, e-mail Faun Weaver, Gecko Queen Emeritus, to faungds@yahoo.com with a statement as to why you want to be the next Gecko Queen. Include any photos or video that represent you or your “Gulportian attitude.”

Image courtesy of the Gulfport Merchant’s Association