Join us for an epic night of live music, high-energy dance competitions, and heartfelt tributes to the men and women who served!
STARS, STRIPES & SWING
Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary in Gulfport 🇺🇸
Step into an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and patriotic celebration as Gulfport comes together to honor 250 years of American independence.
Join us on June 20 from 5–9 PM at the Maria Center for a one-of-a-kind evening featuring a live 18-piece Big Band orchestra, high-energy dance competitions, and heartfelt tributes to the men and women who have served our country.
As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Gulfport’s Stars, Stripes, & Swing will feature inspiring military leaders and veterans sharing powerful stories of service, sacrifice, courage, and patriotism. Their firsthand experiences will honor those who have defended our freedoms, celebrate the enduring American spirit, and inspire future generations to carry forward the values that have shaped our nation for two and a half centuries.
Retired U.S. Air Force leader, author, and leadership coach with more than 24 years of military service. Founder of Premier Performance Training and Development and the FDS Dojo public speaking academy, Wade has trained thousands of leaders to communicate with confidence, overcome fear, and lead with authenticity. Drawing on his military experience and insights from his book Fear Driven Speech, he inspires audiences to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership.
A career fighter and command pilot with over 8,800 flight hours, Maj. Gen. Robinson served as Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of the Air Force Reserve. A 1976 honor graduate of the Air Force Academy, he flew combat support missions in Operation Deny Flight and commanded at the highest staff levels, including the Joint Staff and Office of the Secretary of the Air Force.
Gen. Lori Robinson made history as Commander of U.S. Northern Command and NORAD — the first woman to lead a major unified combatant command. A distinguished Air Battle Manager, she commanded operations across the Pacific, Central Command, and led thousands of Airmen through combat deployments in Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. She holds the Distinguished Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters.
🎺 Live Big Band Orchestra
Feel the energy of classic American swing music performed live by an 18-piece band that will have you on your feet.
💃 Dance Competitions
Watch—or join—the action in:
Salute to Service
Hear brief, powerful reflections from military veterans and join us in honoring those who have defended our freedom.
🍔 All-American Cookout
Enjoy:
🎟 Silent Auction & Fun Activities
👗 Dress the Part!
Come in 1920s–1950s attire or show your pride in red, white, and blue
✨ This is more than an event—it’s a celebration of community, freedom, and American spirit.
🎟 Tickets are limited – reserve yours today!
Laurie Loyst is an accomplished vocalist, entertainer, writer, and cabaret artist whose career has spanned theater, television, cruise ships, big bands, and New York City’s celebrated cabaret scene. A former performer with renowned orchestras and off-Broadway productions, Laurie is known for her engaging blend of classic standards, Broadway favorites, musical comedy, and heartfelt storytelling.
At Stars, Stripes & Swing, Laurie will bring these beloved traditions to life with stirring renditions of classic big band favorites and patriotic American standards, honoring the spirit, pride, and nostalgia of our nation’s 250th Anniversary celebration.
