2025 Gecko Queen Candidates
Voting Open Until August 12th
Meet The 2025 Candidates
How to Vote for the 2025 Gecko Queen
Voters can cast ballots in person until August 12th at the following locations:
Gulfport Beach Bazaar
3115 Beach Boulevard S
Gulfport Corner Store
2902 Beach Blvd S
Gulf Orchids
5313 Gulfport Blvd S
The winner will be announced at the annual Gecko Ball to be held on Saturday, August 23 at the The Maria Center at 1500 58th St. S. in Gulfport
Grand Duchess Aphelia
Times are tough, prices are high, and the economy’s in a tailspin. But I’m here to offer a spark of joy as Gulfport Gecko Queen!
Born a princess in 1964, I found a warm welcome here in lovely Gulfport. I’ve dedicated myself to our community, raising money for vital charitable organizations like Pet Rescue, The Trans Network, Girls Rock Camp For Young Girls, and Dining Out For Life, who supports community-based organizations helping people affected by HIV. I’m also a founding member of Alphabet Soup, a private LGBTQ club.
You might even spot me working as a dishwasher at the Wine House, and definitely see me out and about on my daily rides through town on my trusty steed, Tricella!
Leslie Gilchrist
I’ve worn a lot of hats and now I need a crown! I would be honored to continue my love affair with Gulfport by representing this sweet city as Gecko Queen!
I’ve lived, worked, and played in Gulfport since On The Rocks was the place to be on Friday nights and O’Maddys was still a bar ( no food)!!
My children were raised here. I’m largely responsible for KEEPING GULFPORT WEIRD! Literally, I print and sell the shirts and hats!!
I’ve volunteered plenty and supported local constantly. Someone needs to get this party started and I’m ready! 25 years and still weird – it’s meant to be!
Julie Hill
I made Gulfport my full time home in 2021 and haven’t looked back. The beachy, mermaid vibes, unapologetic individuality, creative chaos—it all mirrors who I am at my core. Gulfport is more than just where I live; it’s where I belong.
By day (and often night), you can find me behind the bar at O’Maddy’s slinging drinks, singing, dancing and laughing. As the self appointed “Hottest Bartender in Gulfport l” It’s been my honor to serve this vibrant community for years—connecting with locals, tourists, and everyone in between.
And when it comes to flair? Oh, I don’t do subtle. I always make a grand entrance. I’m known to dress up—sometimes as a mermaid, sometimes as Taylor Swift, and sometimes as a sparkly mix of both ( let’s not forget about Caturday) because life’s too short not to have fun.
I would be thrilled (and let’s be honest, fabulous) as Gecko Queen—spreading joy, glitter, laughter, hotness, and Gulfport pride all year long. I believe in the power of community, self-expression, and saying “yes” to the weird, wild and wonderful.
Lara Jones
Lara Jones exudes everything a Gecko Queen would and should be. Her beautiful smile and charm gets anyone’s attention. As a mom of 4, she’s an inspiration for what she has gone through and what she strives for daily.
As resident “Hot Sauce” provider at the Hilton Bayfront
if she were an actual hot sauce, I’d say scotch bonnet pepper sauce – sweet flavor + sassy spice, quite a kick. The sauciness can be seen with a strong and positive word. She extends tough love with all the compassion in the world – for the children at home, at work, and of the village.
Lara is also an ambassador, for her community. She advocates on behalf of teachers Gulfport Montessori School, and is also a Rock Star for S.T.O.R.Y. 727, a local non-profit organization on a mission to improve the lives and futures of the youth in historically excluded communities. She is a true facilitator – utilizing her
knowledge, skills and resources to expand camp opportunities.
She deserves the crown because like a gecko, Lara embodies what it takes to overcome adversity – the ability to transform and regenerate.
Kelli Garcia
Gulfport is mostly known for being weird and artsy, but it’s also a place with a big heart. Its a place where people come together, pitch in, and make things happen.
I’m Kelli Garcia, and I’m running for Gulfport Gecko Queen to spread that magic and make space for everyone to show up, get involved, and have a great time doing it.
Here’s how I’m showing up so far: hosting block parties, raising funds for local nonprofits, leading “Gulfport Welcome” events, walking in parades, and always dressing up on theme. I’ve also served on the Merchants Board planning community events
As your queen, I’ll champion the heart of Gulfport: our nonprofits, volunteers, and the spirit of giving that makes us so special. Everyone has something unique to offer and I’ll help you join in. Let’s make service fun, unique, and totally you! That’s the heart of my campaign and I would love to have your support
Gulfport deserves a queen who is ready to lead with a full costume closet and I do look fabulous in a tiara.
Photo of Grand Duchess Ophelia provide by Ethan Perelstein/The Gabber Newspaper