What We Learned on Patch This Week

PACE Halted By City Council: Gulfport City Council did not discuss or vote on an agreement for District Management Services to serve as a third party administrator for the PACE program.

Protesters Light Up at "Smoke In" on Gulfport Beach: A handful of people lit up at Gulfport Beach in protest of the city's smoking ban. A St. Pete attorney had hoped to get cited and challenge the ban in court.

Gulfport Candidates Bring in Cash: Gulfport Patch takes a look at the campaign finances (so far) for candidates competing in the March 13 city council elections.

Hastings Campaign Signs Stolen: Stealing a campaign sign is a misdemeanor theft, according to the Gulfport Police Department.

Ward 1 Candidates Question of the Week: Promoting New Businesses: Ward 1 Council Candidates David Hastings and Dan Liedtke answer our first Question of the Week: How can the city and its leaders help lure new businesses to Gulfport?

Ward 3 Candidates Question of the Week: Promoting New Businesses: Ward 3 Gulfport City Council Candidates Jennifer Salmon and James Perry answer our first Gulfport Patch Question of the Week: How can the city and its leaders help lure new businesses to Gulfport?

Coyotes Spotted in Gulfport, South Pasadena: There have been at least half a dozen reports of coyotes spotted in Gulfport and South Pasadena in the past month, according to Vice Mayor David Hastings.

A Dog's Unconditional Love is Transforming: They are never ashamed of us, they never stab us in the back, and they are there for us in the biggest time of need.

Gulfport Community Players Provides Professional Entertainment: After securing a spot in the Gulfport community the group aims to please through their heartfelt performances.

Local Youths Conduct a Bike Drive for a Good Cause: It’s been a few weeks since YNOT Youth Ministries started collecting bikes and the group is well on its way to providing transportation for a slew of lucky individuals.

City Celebrates Arbor Day: Mayor Mike Yakes, Councilors and members of the City Parks Division planted a Florida native live oak tree at Tomlinson Park in honor of Arbor Day.

Are Religious Schools Exempt From Anti-Discrimination Laws?: Separation of church and state at the highest court could affect hiring and firing practices for all local religious-based schools.