Clymer Park Artwork Unveiled

A mass of people gathered at Clymer Park to welcome Tom Pitzen's artwork to Gulfport on Saturday night. Mayor Mike Yakes, Vice Mayor David Hastings and Council Member Barbara Banno were on hand to share in the welcoming ceremony.

"I think Tom is awesome," said Mayor Yakes. "And I love the sculpture."

In his welcoming speech, Yakes spoke about the coldest day of the year and how Pitzen was hard at work in the freezing weather. Sleet was falling and winds were blowing. But "you could just tell his passion in what he was doing," the mayor said about Pitzen.

Gulfport resident Gym Fish was capturing the ceremony in pictures. He was a fan of the new addition to Clymer Park. "It's much more 'Gulfport' than the old sign," said Fish. "I think the whole thing looks great."

A wide range of Gulfport's population showed up in support of Pitzen's work. From kids on bikes to retired enthusiasts, the turnout spoke volumes of Gulfport's mindset on community.

Pitzen was happy to be at the ceremony and spoke a few words to the people. "I just really love this little city," said Pitzen. "I just wanted to do something for everyone, really."

The sign is said to give insight to the many aspects that make Gulfport what it is. Sailboats, a paint palette and a palm tree are represented on the Clymer Park sculpture.

Vice Mayor David Hastings and Council Member Barbara Banno shared their gratitude for Pitzen's hard work as well:

"Now, we have a brand new sign that points people in the right direction to the downtown waterfront which is kind of, I think, Gulfport's showcase." -Vice Mayor, David Hastings

"I think it's absolutely stunning and I just want to thank Tom for all his hard work." -Council Member, Barbara Banno

Clymer Park's new addition is located front and center at the cross streets of Gulfport and Beach boulevards.