The Gabber: April 7, 2022

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2755

April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Closing a Chapter

By Abby Baker

BOB PONDER

Gulfport Presbyterian Church has room for hundreds of attendees, but currently sees less than two dozen members each Sunday.

Gulfport Presbyterian Church has a mere 19 members, and will host its last service with those 19 members on Sunday, April 24.

At one time, the church’s wood pews sat more than 350 attendees.

It’s not uncommon for longstanding churches to dissipate, says the church’s Clerk of Sessions, Yvonne Johnson. In Gulfport Presbyterian’s case, the church suffered losses as the congregation aged, and no

DINE-IN •

CARRY-OUT •

INSIDE AND OUTSIDE SEATING AVAILABLE

FRESH FLORIDA STONE CRABS ARE HERE! 7490 GULF BLVD • ST PETE BEACH • 727-367-3309 • PJSOYSTERBAR.COM

PAY LESS TO SELL YOUR HOME! Only 3-4% Commission!

Jeff Thomsen, Realtor Realean Real Estate

727-222-0099 JeffThomsen.com

young members replaced them.

Eventually, money ran out.

“It’s devastating, we’re all very saddened that this has to happen, but you also have to be practical,”

Church continued on page 6

gabberlife Gabber Life: Swappin’ Words

Gulfport Book Lovers Swap Reads at GHS Event 2908-B Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 727-321-6965

By Abby Baker

Publisher

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

JUNE JOHNS

Creative Director Joey Neill

JUNE JOHNS

Editor

editor@thegabber.com

Advertising Director Chris Madalena

chris@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney

info@thegabber.com

Reporters & Contributors Abby Baker, Events Editor & Breaking News Mike Sunnucks,

Peggy Bach shows great enthusiasm for the books she chose.

Michele Allaux took time out from the book swap to also review the Gulfport History Museum’s research materials.

JUNE JOHNS

Serving Gulfport, South Pasadena, St. Petersburg West, Downtown St. Petersburg, Kenneth City, Tyrone, Tierra Verde, St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille, Treasure Island, Pinellas Point, Madeira Beach, Pinellas Park Owners Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper

JUNE JOHNS

Politics, Police, and Courts Stephane Mathurin, News + Politics Jeff Donnelly, Theater Morgan Banno, Food Nano Riley, Environment Jon Kile, Columnist Resie Waechter, Outdoors & Fitness

Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

thegabber.com @gabbernews @gabbernews @gabberlife The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers, advertisers, or employees of the Gabber. The Gabber is not liable for any errors in advertising beyond the cost of the first printing of any advertisement. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced or copied without permission of the publisher.

2

Visiting from Illinois, Mike Hopkins was amazed to come across a book he’d heard about for 30 years, “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron.

Berkeley Grimball and Ingrid Bredenberg donated a variety of books.

Anyone who loves to read knows books (even used) can be pricey.

On Saturday, April 2, the Gulfport Historical Society hosted a Book Swap, part of the annual SunLit Festival, for attendees to exchange reading materials, buy books, and lounge on the front lawn.

Gulfportian June Johns captured the fun in this reader-submitted issue of Gabber Life.

Have a few fun snapshots of your own? Feel free to send them to abby@ thegabber.com You may just see your handiwork in print!

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

voices

REMEMBER: Today is the first day of the rest of your life!

Litter Gitter The “Litter Gitter” devices installed last May in Clam Bayou have been a huge success in keeping plastics from washing into the Bay. One of the first things I noticed upon moving to the area several years ago was that the small waterways on the bike trail where I walk my dog and ride my bike were choked with litter. Garbage, ranging from plastic bottles and bags to bigger debris like sports equipment, were all being slowly pushed downstream into Clam Bayou and out into Boca Ciega Bay. Litter in the water is unsightly and begins to break down into easily ingestible and harmful micro plastics in the Florida sun. Today, litter that makes its way into the waterways that lead to Boca Ciega Bay is stopped by the garbage traps

known as “Litter Gitters” which are cleaned out very regularly. This leaves behind noticeably cleaner waters for both human and animal residents to enjoy. The devices were installed using funds from the Trash Free Waters Grant from the EPA which is a three-year grant. If the time ever comes where our community must pay for upkeep or routine cleaning, this resident will support it whole-heartedly. –Lou Mattar, St. Petersburg

in K-3 to begin with; as a parent of school kids you should have known that. This poorly worded and vague bill is simply red meat for the base as a follow up of CRT [critical race theory] and will lead to bullying and attacks. BTW you didn’t mention the support for this bill is slim and support for parents to be able to sue the school board for violation is strongly opposed. –E.C. Burton, via Facebook

Do or Don’t Say Gay

In opening this week’s edition of The Gabber I noticed the letter in Voices, “Don’t Say ‘Don’t Say Gay’.” Later on I read the article titled “Three’s Company”. After reading this edition of The Gabber, I’ve come to the conclusion that The Gabber should not be accessible to children 5-9 years old. –David Shiner, St Petersburg

(Referencing Zack Mills’ comment on our March 24 cover story) What! Of course it says that; the bill contains the terms “sexual orientation” and “gender identity,” each twice. Try reading the bill [and] also know that these were never subjects taught

Don’t Say Gabber

The Gabber welcomes and encourages letters and commentary. One letter per person, per month. All letters must be signed with your real name and city, and should be as brief as possible (ideally <250 words). We may edit letters for content, clarity and length. We will not print letters that incite violence, include personal attacks on private citizens, or that are intentionally misleading or inaccurate. Letters sent to the Gabber for print will also appear online and on the Gabber’s social media pages. Commentary posted to the Gabber’s website and social media pages may also be used in print. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent the views of the Gabber owners, advertisers, or staff. Send letters to news@thegabber.com or mail them to 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL, 33707.

WANT TO FEEL LIKE A SPRING CHICKEN?

5702 GULFPORT BLVD S, SUITE 6

(727) 560-3485

INFINITYMASSAGETHERAPY.COM

LMT MA #93920 & LMT MA #93705

HOP IN FOR A REFRESH!

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

3

peripheral Neuropathy?

Dr. Gibbons, founder of Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine in St. Call now to schedule a consultation. Now $30 (normally $230). Petersburg, is using the science of acupuncture and other integrative techniques that assist in increasing blood flow and expediting recovery and healing Peripheral neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve to treat this debilitating disease. damage of the peripheral nervous system.

“Now when I go to bed at night I don’t Jean explained that daily tasks like have those shooting pains. I don’t have opening doors and using the bathroom that burning sensation. I don’t have pain coming up my legs,”Jean were overwhelmingly painful. “How can enthusiastically describes life after you live for the next 30 years when you receiving Dr. Gibbons treatments. 'I can don’t even want to get out of bed to do wear socks and shoes!” simple things?"

Jean and her sister now operate a She was experiencing the burning, successful dog walking business, numbness, tingling and sharp pains that sometimes covering up to 5 miles a day. those suffering with neuropathy often describe. “The way that I would describe it, "It's life altering. As far as I am concerned, is that it's equivalent to walking on glass.” Dr. Gibbons saved my life!"

Jean hadn’t worn socks in five years and Dr. Gibbons who has also been an RN for was wearing shoes two sizes too big so over 15 years, integrates both her western that nothing would ‘touch’ her feet. medicine background with effective eastern medicine strategies to be able to Unfortunately Jean's story is all offer a different non-drug, non surgical too familiar. For the over 3 million option to those who have chronic pain and people in the U.S. suffering from complex chronic conditions. She specializes peripheral neuropathy. in chronic cases, specifically those that have been deemed ‘hopeless’ If you’re unfortunate enough to be facing or ‘untreatable’. the same disheartening prognosis, you’re It is time to let your golden years be golden! not sleeping at night because of the our services: burning in your feet. You have difficulty f you’ve missed too many tee times acupuncture walking, shopping or doing any activity for because of pain or you’ve had to miss more than 30 minutes because of the pain. dry needling out on enjoying our beautiful weather and You’re struggling with balance and living in acupuncture beaches because you’re afraid of falling, fear that you might fall. it’s time to contact Dr. Gibbons and her

727-272-3587

injection point therapy O3 Regenerative Therapy™ ATP Resonance BioTherapy™

Your doctor told you to ‘just live with the pain’ and you’re taking medications that aren’t working or have uncomfortable side effects.

ACHIEVEACUIM.COM 4

staff at...

Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine

701 49th St. N St. Petersburg, FL 33710 Call (727) 272-3587 now to schedule a consultation.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

news Roundup, Weeds, and a Sense of Safety

Residents Concerned by Herbicide Use in Public Spaces

By Steph Mathurin

CATHY SALUSTRI

Gulfport loves its dogs, and when some residents saw the City’s contracted pest control spraying Roundup, they grew concerned.

Mornings start for many with a walk. Whether accompanied by a partner, furry friend, or taken solo, walks are an activity that is meant to get the blood pumping and ready for the rest of the day ahead.

For some residents, peaceful morning walks turned sour as they discovered that harsh chemicals were present in another public space.

Following the recent controversy regarding pesticide use at the local dog parks, Grello and many other residents are disappointed another similar situation has occurred.

“I have been searching for a place to walk my dogs, because of all the other scenarios. And on St. Patrick’s Day, the 17th of March, I took my dogs down to the beach, walking on the sidewalk. As I passed the volleyball courts, I noticed these little signs. On each of them it said the date, followed by ‘Roundup’,” local resident Tina Grello explained. “After seeing the signs I scooped my dogs up and headed back home,” Grello added.

“It was a misunderstanding; there was a change in management [for the contractors] and they did not confirm with management prior to spraying.”

Public Works director Tom Nicholls said in reference to the Roundup application.

City officials recently changed their service partners for managing pests and weeds. The new company, Florida Ground Control, was not authorized to spray Roundup at the beach,

although continued with doing so because of a lack of communication, according to City officials.

Some residents, like Grello, take issue with the use of Roundup and other harsh chemicals due to the chemical’s harmful nature.

Many studies conducted and reviewed internationally have stated that Roundup and other glyphosate-based products have carcinogenic (cancer-causing) properties, according to the National Pesticide Information Center.

“We chose to move here because when we came here and we looked around, it seemed like a very, very conscious community,” Grello said.

That being said, the Center does also report that the chemical is known for its binding abilities and can break down with time, making it unlikely to enter groundwater or runoff, a detail reinforced by both Nicholls and Parks and Facilities Superintendent Tim Connor.

Despite the misunderstanding, City officials do not intend on switching pest control providers and will continue to use their services.

“We plan on continuing our relationship with them... They come out twice a year to do the maintenance on the beach. And we trust that they’ll fix the problem. They were very apologetic about the situation, and sent a letter to us in that regard.” Connor told The Gabber.

City officials do plan on implementing new procedures to ensure that Gulfport residents, both bipedal and four-legged, are safe and feel welcomed.

“Moving forward, we’re going to get a day’s notice. Prior to them coming out, we’re going to shut down [the park]; we’re going to post [that] the park that will be closed the following day for maintenance purposes,” Connor explained.

Messianic Congregation

Come Celebrate the Passover with us Friday April 15, 7:00pm Pre-registration & Payment due by April 9. $20-$15 depending on age & meal option.

See www.JewishHeritage.net 1701 29th Ave N, St. Pete

727-345-7777

rabbi@jewishheritage.net • JewishHeritage.net • ShalomAdventure.com

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

5

easter Dinner • april 17 HaM, potatoes, Veggies, salaD & Dessert

BOB PONDER

Church continued from cover

$12 Call to reserVe toDay! Hours: Mon-sat 8a-6p & sun noon-4p

1418 58tH street s.

727.873.3478

Yvonne Johnson, the church’s Clerk of Sessions, says the church is closing due to low funds and attendance.

THE STORAGE HOUSE 727-327-9598

TheStorageHouse.com 1219 49th Street South • Gulfport Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8~5 / Sat 8~2

NEED MORE SPACE? We’re The Moving Place!

24-Hour Access • First-Floor Convenience • Climate & Non-Climate Controlled units available

We are a small family owned business and will not increase your rates every 6 months like a corporate facility.

CALL TODAY FOR OUR BEST RATES!

We sell boxes, locks, and moving supplies.

6

Johnson said. “It takes money and it takes people.”

Johnson, former Gulfport Mayor (1985-87) and the church’s longest-standing member has been involved with the church for nearly 30 years. She remembers a brighter time, when there were multiple families with young children, and even recalls helping raise money for the building’s expansion.

“We’ve done everything we can possibly do to keep the church going as long as we have,” Johnson said.

The Church that Was Upon opening its doors in 1917, Gulfport Presbyterian was a non-denominational place of worship. In 1947, it became a Presbyterian Church called First Presbyterian Church of Gulfport, and in 1966, was renamed Gulfport Presbyterian Church.

The congregation outgrew the original building and added a fellowship hall and additional building in the ‘50s and ‘60s, but now it sits mostly empty on Sundays.

Another longstanding member, Lavon Ellerman, is sad to say goodbye after 20 years of involvement.

Ellerman brings her four great grandchildren to Sunday services each week, and she says they are the only young people the church

has regularly seen in 10 years.

“I don’t think they know that other children go to church,” Ellerman said. “They’ve never seen it.”

She’s devastated, but with a dwindling crowd, it’s not a surprise to the St. Petersburg resident.

“We all know we have to die, but we don’t plan on it,” Ellerman said.

“We all knew the church wouldn’t stay open, but I guess we were hoping for a miracle.”

The church has taken in four new members in the last year, and lost one to death.

One of the new members, Bob Ponder, joined Gulfport Presbyterian Church despite recognizing that time was running out for the historical congregation.

“They were warm; warm and inviting,” Ponder said. “I’m a person of color, and the only one there, but still they were warm. They needed my help, and it’s great to feel needed.”

So Ponder watered the plants and attended services on Sundays, and on Sunday, April 24, he’ll do so for the last time.

“I knew before I joined that they could be closing, but I felt that that was a good place to be at the moment,” Ponder said. “I really feel for the other members; you can feel the pain there.”

Church continued on page 11

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

See Something, Rap Something

Gibbs Students SAVE Club Stand Against Bullying with Video and Rap The student-produced mock bullying video created by the Gibbs High School SAVE Promise Club is impressive, but there’s one detail that gained national attention and a spot on Sandy Hook’s Say Something Monthly Newsletter: The background rap was written, performed, and produced by 15-year-old freshman Jordan Bostick.

“I have a thing for music, it’s in my blood,” Bostick said.

The “See Something Say Something” video shows a mock bullying incident in the boys bathroom, followed by a student demonstrating how to report dangerous and violent activity.

SAVE club members, including president and senior Ashton Williams, clearly thought so as well. After hearing Bostick’s plucky freestyle rap about reporting bullying, they invited him into the club.

“I like it a lot; it’s very welcoming,” Bostick told The Gabber.

Bostick says he’s been creating music since he was in the third grade. He plans to keep on with the club moving forward, and there may be another rap in the future.

SAVE, a nationwide club that stands for “Students Against Violence Everywhere”, was put forth after the 2012 Sandy Hook tragedy.

“They started the SAVE club to stop

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

These Gibbs High School students are a part of SAVE Promise Club, a group in schools nationwide that was created by parents of the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012. (Left to right) Ashton Williams, Ary’ana Davis and Jordan Bostick.

gun violence, and not just gun violence, but all violence in our schools,” Williams said.

The group meets often and is sponsored by Gibbs School resource officer Grace Albritton. Albritton, once a dancer at the school and a Buccaneers cheerleader, joined the group to be closer to the kids.

“There’s a lot of kids that are bullied and we just don’t know, unless they say something,” Albritton said.

Currently, the students are work-

ing on a sequel video that stars club member Ary’ana Davis as the bully.

“It was weird playing that role, because I’m short and short people are picked on,” Davis said. “It was weird being put in a different position seeing how an angry person feels; the only reason a person would act that way is because they were treated that way themselves.”

Watch the original video via YouTube at youtube.com/watch?v=iiZAz4ycrbE

VINTAGE EASTER BASKETS EASTER COLLECTIBLES HOME DÉCOR • UNIQUE GIFTS FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!

Gulfport Antiques & Collectibles 5812 28 TH Ave. S. • CALL DE ANN

727-224-5126

EASTER WORSHIP SERVICES SUNDAY, APRIL 17

Sunrise Service @ 6:30 am Pass-A-Grille Park at Pass-A-Grille Way and 10th Avenue 8:30 am on Pavilion & 10 am in Sanctuary at Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church • 107 16th Avenue in PAG Live-Streamed Online @ 8:30 am & 10 am • No Reservations Needed

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Details at PAGChurch.org 7

Library Loses Librarian

Gulfport Will Miss Cailey Klasson Five days a week for the past 10 years, Cailey Klasson walked through the doors of the Gulfport Public Library and said hello to her regulars, who range from seniors to babbling toddlers. Up until now that is.

Friday, April 1, Klasson stepped down from her role as youth services librarian.

Since accepting the job in 2012, Klasson’s held the same position at the library. In that decade, she’s gone from a 25-year-old searching for adventure to a mother of two young girls.

She’s worked at the library through both pregnancies, the 2015 renovation and, recently, a worldwide pandemic.

“I’ve met the best of Gulfport just from the people that have come into the library,” Klasson said.

Friday, April 1 was Klasson’s last day. The New England native is

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Cailey Klasson, the Gulfport Public Library’s youth services librarian, is leaving her position – and the Sunshine State – after 10 years.

moving her family to ​​Connecticut to be closer to her parents, and so her daughters can be closer to their grandparents.

Growing up, she didn’t spend a

PROTECT YOUR HOME NOW! • High-ImpactWindows & Doors • Hurricane Shutters: Roll-Down & Accordion Style • Hurricane Fabric & Motorized Hurricane Fabric • Clear Polycarbonate Hurricane Panels • Expert Installation • LifetimeWarranty • Special Financing Available

SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY BUDGET 43-Year Trustworthy Reputation

Pre-Season Discounts Now Available!

Call for details.

• Impact Windows • Doors • Shutters

General Contractor License CGC1516020

www.stormfitter.com 727-544-0575 8

lot of time with her grandparents, and it’s important for her children to have that interpersonal community.

Also, she adds, her family is being priced out. As home prices in Gulfport rise, Klasson fears her family of four will not be able to afford upsizing as they grow.

Still, it wasn’t an easy choice.

“I keep telling people we’re moving to be closer to my family,” Klasson said, choking up. “But I feel like I’m leaving my family here.”

Welcoming Cailey Before Gulfport was on her radar, Klasson graduated from Simmons University in Boston. While living in Massachusetts, Klasson worked as a library assistant at an all-girls school.

She was always a woman with a love of literature and people, and upon receiving a graduate degree, she sought out the community reach and creativity that comes with working in a library.

“Libraries are these great community resources doing radical things and I just loved it,” Klasson said.

“The rest is history.”

With no job offers in sight, Klasson and her boyfriend (Tony Fox) moved to St. Petersburg for a shot at warm weather. It was a move that she de-

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

ABBY BAKER

“I think there’s something so special and rare about this town and I’m really going to miss it,” Klasson said.

scribes being motivated by “young and dumb” reasons. Really, she said, she wanted to get out of the metro-Boston area.

For months, she applied to various jobs and stressed about the future.

Until her 2012 interview with Gulfport Public Library Director Dave Mather, who had only began his position a few months before Klasson walked in the doors.

“Dave... I feel like he took a chance on me,” Klasson said. “I didn’t have years and years of experience, but getting this job was an amazing opportunity for me. I finally got to do what I went to grad school for.”

Mather, a stone-faced staple around the library and the 2016 honoree of Florida’s Librarian of the Year (awarded by the Florida Library Association), isn’t one to get emotional.

But he will miss Klasson.

“She’s been a part of the library for 10 years; she’s actually really become a part of the community,” Mather told The Gabber. “We’ve been telling people and they are very disappointed, especially the little kids.”

program began. Then, the year following, she started the Kid’s Science Club.

Some of the toddlers that came to those first years of storytime, she still sees, only they’re nearing adolescence.

“It’s been amazing getting to see kids grow up from babies and toddlers to now, being in middle school,” Klasson said. “This place is so special to me.”

She’s also partly responsible for the more recent outdoor spaces at the library, such as the Sonia Plotnick Garden and the Pocket Prairie mini habitat that Klasson put together with the City of Gulfport’s horticulturist, Toffer Ross.

Klasson met Plotnick through the library’s Circle of Friends and the Sonia Plotnick Health Fund. Over the

A Decade of Cailey Before Klasson’s arrival, there was a gap where the library had no youth librarian. The year she jumped on board was the year that the long-running Storytime in the Park

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

years, the women have remained intermingled in joint causes.

“She’s [Klasson] extremely knowledgeable and creative, kind to a fault, she’s compassionate … She’s loved by children and adults,” Plotnick said. “And she’s going to be very hard to replace.”

Prior to leaving Florida, Klasson accepted a position at the Windsor Public Library in Connecticut. She hopes to bring some of her light up north, and hopes the same for whoever will fill her role.

The library is actively looking for Klasson’s replacement, says Mather.

But they’ll have big shoes to fill.

“I hope the next person can bring an open heart and an open mind,” Klasson said. “I hope they bring the silly things, and have a lot of fun with it.”

KFM MD • 727-300-0933 info@kfmmd.com

KAREN MONROE M.D.

401 33rd St N., #F • St. Petersburg 33713 karenformarijuana.com

420

SPECIAL 10% off all new patients in the month of April

“...we will help you through the entire process.” No fee if you do not qualify.

9

Meet Elaine.

She wanted to foster new and meaningful relationships, to share her art, and to be involved.

Living with her oldest son and daughter-in-law wasn’t providing the colorful life she needed. Now, at 92, she’s more engaged than ever, and happily living out her passions.

“She’s got friends there. She does her painting, which she wasn’t able to do before, because there really wasn’t a place for her to paint at my house. She teaches art there, and painting … she’s in her element. She’s amazing.” – Linda L., Elaine’s daughter-in-law

Call 727-202-3474 for a virtual or in-person private consultation today. Learn more about our community and hear from Elaine and her family: Hover phone camera over the QR code or visit wrcsafe.com/bocaciegabay.

1255 Pasadena Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33707 INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE Skilled Nursing at The Springs, Operated by Summit Care Inc.

FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083

10

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Church continued from page 6

While the church has only opened once a week for quite some time, Sunflower Private School rents out the church and hosts K-5 classes five days a week.

Sunflower School directors Nicole Riveiros and Bevin O’Brien say the school has operated out of the church for 42 years. They’d like to buy the property, continue holding classes, and eventually expand past their current 38 students.

“We’re very serious about buying. We have a fundraising committee working very hard to secure the location because of the history here,” Riveiros told The Gabber.

“This ground has soaked up so many tears, soaked up so much history.”

Oftentimes, Sunflower School students walk to the Tuesday Fresh Market, the Gulfport Public Library, and Gulfport Beach for wildlife watching.

Leaving this area would be a loss

Gulfport gathers

BOB PONDER

A Likely Buyer

“There’s no hope to make a difference,” Johnson said.

for the school, Riveiros says.

The current property is owned by Gulfport Presbyterian Church, and on May 11, the church’s trustees (somewhat like a board of directors) will meet and request that the Presbytery of Tampa Bay dissolve the church. If the Presbytery grants that request, the Presbytery will take

over the property, because Gulfport Presbyterian Church will no longer exist.

“I know the private school may buy,” Johnson said. “But I do not know if they can or will officially.”

The church will hold its final three services at 10:30 a.m. on April 10, 17, and 24.

YOUR NEW FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN THE WATERFRONT DISTRICT

...where Gulfport gathers

AMAZING FOOD, CRAFT BEERS & MICROBREWS BEST NEW BREWERY, PINELLAS BEST TASTE THE RAINBOW

SAFE, SOCIALLY-DISTANCED DINING INSIDE AND OUTSIDE

VETERAN OWNED • EARTH AND DOG-FRIENDLY GULFPORT BREWERY + EATERY • 3007 BEACH BLVD • (727) 954-4109 • GULFPORT-BREWING.COM theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

11

Letters from your neighbor Hierarchy of Concern: War

By Ian O’Hara

Putin launched an unprovoked, unjust and illegal action against Ukraine, so yes, Putin started the war in Ukraine. Yes, it is his fault.

We were unable to prevent the Russians from invading Ukraine through U.S. sanctions.

The question is, how should the U.S. respond?

These sanctions did not stop the invasion, but will the new sanctions hurt the Russian government or its people? As we have experienced through history, sanctions have always hurt the people and not the government. Will they be different this time?

I believe that we need to have sober awareness and foresightedness before we do any kind of reflective actions. I understand as Article 5 stands, we could get into a hot war, but it is a choice to invoke Article 5 – not a reaction.

So, here are my concerns: 1. To avoid a hot war with a nuclear adversary.

If we do, our lives and treasures are secure.

2. To protect the US dollar.

If we do not protect the U.S. dollar, we could see an economic depression.

3. To keep the cheap energy flowing.

Roughly 40% of Europe’s natural gas is received through Ukraine, from Russia. Germany gets more than 50% of its natural gas through Ukraine. Is this Germany’s war? If there is no energy, there is no civilization.

5. The Domino Theory.

If Russia can annex Ukraine, so in turn, can China annex Taiwan, which could lead to our lives and treasures lost. The dollar could crumble, and cheap energy would be lost – as well as the manufacturing of chips. So why would this

Karen S. Keaton, Esquire ELDER LAW

PROBATE

CORPORATE

www.Gulf B eachesLaw.com

Your Trusted Local Attorney!

Karen S. Keaton, Esquire

Estate Planning including Trusts, Wills, Health Care Directives, and Powers of Attorney, Trust & Probate Estate Administration, Elder Law including Medicaid & Special Needs Trusts, Corporate & Business Planning

We are available for phone consultations!

2816 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707 • (727) 822-2200

12

So, let’s think of these concerns before we step forward in to World War III. “Truth is barely pure and never simple.”

Sincerely, Your neighbor, Ian O’Hara

4. Moral, ethical, values – and principal outrage.

Presidents Bush, Obama, and Trump kept NATO off the table – which is what Putin wanted. Why, suddenly, is that no longer an option? Moral, ethical, values, and principal outrage is lower on my hierarchy. Under this principle, the larger statement is “defend democracy” and I say, “What democracy?” Ukraine is a constitutional republic, not a democracy – and that’s why I put “avoid a hot war with a nuclear adversary at the top.”

GULF BEACHES LAW, P. A. ESTATE PLANNING

not be true for the Chinese Communist Party?

Ian O’Hara writes Letters From Your Neighbor, a regular opinion column about things happening in Gulfport and beyond. Email him at ian@thegabber.com.

PLEASE GET VACCINATED The implanted chips are wonderful!

Every morning when I wake, the voice of Bill Gates or George Soros comes into my head telling me what to do.

Life is so easy now.

(PS. I like George better, such a charming Hungarian accent) - Vaxxed and Happy theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Basket Case

St. Pete Beach has Baskets for Beachgoers to Collect Litter Happy Spring! March 20 introduced the first day of spring and what famous tradition takes place in spring? You got it: Spring cleaning.

The City of St. Pete Beach wants to remind its citizens to use its beach baskets.

What are the green beach baskets found at the entrances of St. Pete Beach? Implemented in January 2021, The beach baskets serve as a facet of the “Vision 2030” plan for the City, according to St. Pete Beach Public Information Officer, Sarah Laracuente.

The mission statement of the “Vision 2030” plan states, “The City of St. Pete Beach is committed to ensuring an optimal quality of life for its community by protecting our beaches and family-friendly environment while being respectful of our history.”

To optimize the protection and maintenance of the beaches, the beach baskets allow beachgoers and community members to pick up trash

SARAH LARACUENTE

By Gabby Reeder

The Beach Baskets sit below this sign informing beach-goers how to use them.

every day, not just during scheduled beach clean-ups.

“The inspiration came about during staff brainstorming, and was installed

by Andrew Butterfield from our public works team,” Laracuente said.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Laracuente mentioned users can virtually log how much trash they pick up by scanning a QR code. She told The Gabber in the past six months, beachgoers logged 35 baskets of trash.

13

Seven Questions with Gulfport Hula Hoop Instructor Maria Estrada Can Go Hours Without Dropping Her Hoop Twice a month, Maria Estrada, the owner of circus entertainment company Circular Expressions teaches hula hoop classes at the Gulfport Recreation Center. It’s a tame gig for her, considering she’s often performing with several hoops and, on occasion, flames.

Estrada’s danced her entire life, but began hula hooping in her signature hip-hop, modern dance, and Latin-fused style in Richmond, Virginia more than 10 years ago.

In 2017, she moved to Gulfport, brought her hoops with her, and never looked back.

MARIA ESTRADA

By Abby Baker

GN: How did you get into the art of hula hooping?

ME: I was a runner. I started hooping in 2011 because I suffered a knee injury and I couldn’t work out anymore. A friend ended up showing me everything I know today. It’s less strenuous on your body.

When did you bring your personal practice to Gulfport?

Ever since I moved to Gulfport from Virginia in 2017, it was a goal to establish my community. Then I started to meet some hoopers and began teaching classes in the park. I felt it helped with people’s depression and anxiety.

You’re a performer and teacher, which do you prefer?

Oh my God, that’s such a tear.

I’ll probably never stop teaching at the Gulfport Rec Center. But I really do love performing; once you’re past a certain age it feels like you’re pulled out of a slump.

Circular Expressions owner and hula hoop instructor Maria Estrada teaches classes in Gulfport and performs her winding act around St. Petersburg.

What type of people come to your hula hoop classes?

Wow, so many different types of people. My oldest student is in her 70s and my youngest is seven. I’ve had girlfriends, mothers and daughters, and older people. One woman was so determined, she had bruises on her hands. She eventually passed away, but she was so inspiring.

How long can you keep a hoop going?

My husband says he doesn’t think

MEDICARE IS CONFUSING…LET ME HELP! My assistance is 100% complimentary!

Independent Sales Representative Florida License W566896

Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans Medicare Advantage Plans • Part D Prescription Drug Plans

Lisa Pence 14

727-560-3674

I can stop. That’s one of the best things, seeing how much you can improve. I used to only be able to go for a few songs but now I can keep a hoop around my waist for an entire concert.

What’s the key to getting good?

Lots of practice, and don’t beat yourself up too much. We all started somewhere.

Besides hula hoop, what do you like to do?

When I’m not doing this, I’m working on my succulent business, Succulantes. I’m here in Gulfport but I sell them all over St. Pete.

Hula Hoop Fitness and Technique Second and fourth Thursday of the month. 6:30 p.m. $10. mestrada1987@ gmail.com.

lpence@jrstoner.com • thestonerorganization.com

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

the gabs Is there a song that you just can’t stand to listen to?

Photos by Abby Baker

Gene Bongard, Michigan “I really don’t. I’ll listen to anything.”

Ellen Bongard, Michigan “The song ‘Free Fallin’’ by Tom Petty. I can’t listen to it anymore, sorry Tom.”

Roxanne Flanders, Rhode Island “I’m a senior, and sometimes I don’t like when my age group listens to the same music that they did in high school. I like that music, I appreciate that music, but every time?”

Gianna Sullivan, Rhode Island. “I’m beating myself up over here trying to think of a song I don’t like. But I’m a musician, I love all music.”

PVC FENCE PANELS CLEANED FROM $11 A PANEL

free quote & DEMO (727) 360-7070 theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

15

Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S. • 727-893-5657 •

/gulfportseniorcenter

Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events.

Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, we’ve limited capacity, so call to register for a spot.

Supplemental food assistance for qualifying Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Proper verification required prior to use of the pantry.

GEMS (Gulfport Extended Mobility Service) provides affordable Door-to-Door transportation service, rides to medical appointments, shopping, and much more for Gulfport residents, 55 years of age or older or disabled. 727-893-2242.

Medical Equipment Lending Program provides gently used wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and other medical equipment to seniors who need it. Supplies limited.

SPECIAL EVENTS Monday Mile Walking Club Start your week on the right (or left) foot with a walking group that meets in different locations every week.

Mondays, 8 a.m. Call for location.

Memory Screenings Worried about your memory? St. Anthony’s Memory Disorder Clinic offers free, confidential memory screenings. April 11; Call for appointment.

EPIC Social Club LGBTQ+ individuals often face many challenges as they age. Join us

16

to discuss these challenges and to offer mutual social support through conversation and connection. April 11 1, 6 p.m.

Pencil Drawing for Beginners Led by Jay Lynch Please bring 11” x 14” drawing pad, pencils, and sharpener. Tuesdays (April 1226), 1 p.m.; registration required.

Identity Theft & Fraud Prevention This presentation brings awareness to identity theft & ways to prevent it. Light refreshments.

April 12, 2 p.m.; registration required.

Health Talk with Labrador Primary: Battling Dangerous Belly Fat Ever wondered what causes belly fat? Dr. McCoy discusses what your waistline may say about your health, the potential risk it may pose, and what you can do to help shed those unwanted love handles. April 14, 12 p.m.

Rhythm & Groove Jam Session Let’s make music together at our monthly hootenanny. Bring your instrument & join our casual jamming group. Open to all people, all instruments, all experience levels, and, of course, listeners. April 14, 3 p.m.

Deal Maker by SAGES A comedy about the family patriarch making deals to hide his driving mishaps and how he navigates new territory due to his family’s meddling. April 16, 2 p.m. (1 p.m., doors); reserve a seat at sagestheater.org/events Wellness Wednesday: Monthly Wellness Checks Make your health a priority & track

your progress with these free monthly wellness screenings. April 20, 9 a.m. iPhone/iPad Class Learn the basic functions of your Apple iPhone or iPad. April 21, 1 p.m. Preregistration required.

Matinee Movie Take a break & enjoy a movie with friends. Call for movie title. April 22, 1 p.m.

EPIC Coffee Club EPIC Coffee Club Join other LGBTQ+ seniors for a warm cup of coffee. This month we’ll look back at memories, so bring in photos of yourself you’re comfortable sharing. April 27, 8:30 a.m.

Summer Art Class Registration open now – call to sign up and learn more.

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month The Gulfport Senior Center Volunteers are real life superheroes – ordinary people with hearts for helping others, giving back to their community, and making an extraordinary impact. The Gulfport Senior Center sends a super thanks to this special league of heroes.

GEMS GETAWAYS Yoder’s Restaurant & Amish Village April 21. $20; $15, GEMS members.

Courtside Grille April 28. $8; $6, GEMS members.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 • /gulfportlibraryfl Mygulfport.us/gpl • Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

All programs free and subject to change.

Science Club Grab & Go Our weekly science club for grades K-5 is now on the go!

Pick up a cool take-home experiment or science-based craft kit. Mondays, 4 p.m.

Limited supplies; call for availability.

Garden Grampa for Grades K-5 Every first Monday of the month, Mr. Albert shares his knowledge of all things gardening and sustainability through storytelling and handson fun in the Reading Garden. May 2, 4 p.m.

Murder in the Afternoon Mystery Series Do you love a whodunit? Join us for our weekly mini-series. Visit our Events calendar or call for description of episodes.

Weds., except April 20, 12 p.m.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Part C In-

formation and counseling about Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D. Apr. 20, 1 p.m. 727-8931073 for individual appointment.

Babytime For little ones under 2 years old and their caregivers. We will sing, read, enjoy lap bounce rhymes, and learn baby signs. Older siblings also welcome. April 22, 10:15 am.

Spring Sign Craft for Adults Use wood, paint, and fake flowers to create a beautiful sign for spring. April 14, 2 p.m.; registration starts April 7, as we have limited supplies, registration starts April 7. Call or email library.programs@mygulfport.us.

Gulfport Library Book Club Discuss Philip Roth’s “Portnoy’s Complaint”. Borrow a print copy from the library or download the

audiobook from Overdrive/Libby. April 21, 2 p.m. 727-893-1073.

SpeakOut: The Intersection of LGBTQ Identity and Law, Presented by C. Dixon Osburn Funded by the Florida Humanities Council and sponsored by the LGBTQ Resource Center. Apr. 21, 7 p.m. Funding for this program was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Gulfport Casino Ballroom 727-893-1070 • 5500 Shore Blvd. S. Soul Night: Disco Party! Dance to those funky disco grooves & beats. No partner needed! April 8: 7-8 p.m., lesson; 8 p.m.-12 a.m., dance. $10. swingtime.info Ballroom Dance with Daniel Fugazzotto and Carol Baker April 10: 6 p.m., lesson; 7 p.m.,

dance. $10. 727-798-3660.

The Impacs Sock Hop with special guest Ken Brady. April 15, 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. door) $15 or $25/2, advance (Casino or Gulfport Beach Bazaar); $20, day of.

Casino Weekly Dances Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12-3 p.m. $10 Argentine Tango: Tues., 6:30 p.m., $10 Swing: Weds., 7 p.m. $10 Latin Night: Thurs., 7 p.m. $10

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec Annual registration: $3 residents, $25 nonresidents Basketball Adult: Wed., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & Thurs. 6-8:30 p.m.

Pickleball All levels: Tues., 6-8:30 p.m. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Beginner: Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Intermediate & Advanced: Mon., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Table Tennis Tues.. & Thurs., 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Game Room Mon., Wed., & Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

PROGRAMS Summer Program Registrations continue for our 2022 Summer Program, open to children who’ve completed kindergarten through age 14. The 10-week program runs from May 31-Aug. 5, from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., with extended hours until 6 p.m. (for an extra fee). The program has 25 spots for the discounted rate for Gulfport residents in need of assistance; verify eligibility with either a letter from the child’s school verifying the acceptance of free or reduced lunch or a letter acceptance of assistance from financial aid or a related program.

Register Mon.-Fri., from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Teen Night Registrations Continue! Available for middle and high school students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required: $3, residents; $25, nonresidents.

VPK Program We are currently accepting VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) Vouchers for the 2022-2023 School Year. VPK is free for all Florida children who turn 4 by Sept. 1.

VPK runs from 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., starting Sept. 6. Apply only at elcpinellas.net; after applying, bring the certificate of eligibility to pre-registration, which takes place Mon.-Fri., from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

CLASSES Call instructor for more information.

Want to teach a class? Call John: 727893-1079.

Ballet and Tap Tues.: Ages 3-6, 5:45 p.m.; ages 7-16, 6:45 p.m. $40/month. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Essential Oil April 21, 6:30 p.m. $10/class.

Jennifer: 813-263-3919.

Essentrics Aging Backwards Recommended for active adults 60 years and above. Thurs., 10 a.m. $40/month. Lauren: 248-875-7030 Essentrics Toning Thurs., 9 a.m. $40/ month. Lauren: 248-875-7030 F.I.T Tennis Fri., 6 p.m. Free for beginners, ages 21 and up. Chase Park, 5313 27th Ave. S. Mo: 727-515-1454.

Hula Hoop Fitness Second & fourth Thursday, 6:30 p.m. $35/month; $10/ class. Maria: mestrada1987@gmail.com.

Tennis Tues. Adult lessons. Chase Park, 28th Ave. and 53rd St. S. $15. Mo: 727515-1454.

Yoga Moves Fri., 9:30 $12/class; $50/ month. Denise: 727-251-8868 Youth Hip Hop Ages 6-8: Fri., 6:30 p.m.; ages 9-16, Fri., 7:30 p.m. $40/month. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594 Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m. $20/month; $6/ class. Magda: 727-214-7868

17

arts Green Giant

Downtown Gulfport Could Get 14-Foot Gecko Sculpture by Ray Domingo

By Abby Baker

about his second role as a musician.

“Sam was the first to give me a CD of his music,” Domingo laughed.

While he’s dipping his toe in a new art form, Domingo receives counsel from a Tampa Bay-based 3D-sculpting company, Grand Theming Studios.

“They’ve done a lot of work for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers,” Domingo said.

RAY DOMINGO

For months, Gulfport artist Ray Domingo has planned his creation: a giant green gecko sculpture he hopes to place near the Gulfport Casino Ballroom.

This March, City Council unanimously approved Domingo’s plans and committed $16,000 toward the sculpture’s construction and the installation of a cement pedestal. The statue will stand to the right of the Casino entrance, facing Gulfport Beach.

Build the Gecko

A Skateboarding Lizard Domingo is known in Gulfport for his hyper-realistic wildlife and marine paintings. Despite never having worked on a sculpture of this size before, he’s optimistic.

“It’s my first sculpture on this scale and not the last,” Domingo said. “I’m hoping for people to love it so much they can’t wait to lay their eyes on another Domingo sculpture.”

He decided to create his gecko to add a photo opportunity to his city’s downtown.

“It occurred to me: Gulfport does not have a good photo op spot,” Domingo said.

Domingo’s idea of a photo op is a 14-foot green lizard on an 8-footlong skateboard, gliding past a lamppost while listening to music through chunky headphones.

It’s the Gulfport artist’s first time working on a structure this size.

The lamppost? Glow in the dark.

The headphones? A speaker playing music from Gulfport and Gulfport-adjacent musicians. The sculpture’s pedestal will read “Welcome to Gulfport.”

He already has a lineup of artists to blare their music from the gecko’s headphones, which will conceal speakers. Plans include music from TC Carr, John Prine, and Gulfport Mayor Sam Henderson, who is open

EXPERIENCE COUNTS – AND SAVINGS ADD UP Find out about the Competitive Rates and Special Benefits available through our agency for all your insurance needs! Ready to learn more?

Contact our agency now!

Call today for your FREE, no obligation quote.

HOME • FLOOD AUTO • BUSINESS COMMERCIAL

18

727-344-4500 6524 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Though the City committed $16,000 and the installation of the pedestal, the giant lizard sculpture business isn’t a cheap one. According to Domingo, the project requires another $20,000.

Domingo calls the fundraising effort “Build the Gecko,” and is accepting donations at The Beach Bazaar, Gulfport Realty, and The Domingo Studio.

If all goes well, Domingo and the City will unveil the green giant at – where else? – GeckoFest, which traditionally takes place the Saturday before Labor Day. “The goal is to unveil the statue at GeckoFest this summer,” Justin Shea, City of Gulfport Cultural Facilities Events Supervisor, said.

“Once it’s there,” Domingo said, “show up with your smiles folks.”

The gecko does not yet have a name, but the artist is currently musing on the future identity of his scaly creation.

A Little Good News Let us share your good news!

Photos printed as space allows.

Free – email goodnews@thegabber.com.

New Baby • Engaged • Save The Date Student of the Month • Dean's List Graduation

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Counting the Birds

One Writer’s Avian Midlife Crisis

By Amanda Hagood

CATHY SALUSTRI

In case you want to count the birds, this handy trail marker in the Everglades helps you find any of the millions there.

Every time I break for a flock of ibises – “Florida chickens” – crossing the road, I remember the words a friend always uses to describe the bird life here in Florida: an embarrassment of riches. And while I’ve learned enough in my time here to distinguish a little blue heron from a tricolored, or tell you when a blue jay is calling for its posse, there’s a world of avian activity going on around me that I barely notice most of the time.

Nature and adventure writer Susan Fox Rogers was the same until an otherworldly bird call – “hollow and holy,” with a “texture like a silk accordion” – interrupted a conversation with her students and she, embarrassingly, could not identify it (it turned out to be a wood thrush). This story launches her forthcoming book “Learning the Birds: A Midlife Adventure” (Cornell University Press, 2022) and prompts her to begin a fascinating and funny adventure into the world of birdwatching.

Through a series of two dozen birding adventures, each told in wry and highly readable prose, she weaves stories of some important, if anticlimactic, midlife realizations about “the shape of my life – that there was not going to be a happily-ever-after story, that I would not write a best-selling book, and I would never be rich, or even the simple fact that my legs would always be too short.”

Along the way the book engages with the lives of work of extraordinary birders from Florence Merriam Bailey

(who helped launch the Audubon Society movement) to Nathan Leopold (a notorious murderer). It also examines some of the foibles of serious birders, from “twitchers” who obsessively flock to places where rare birds alight, to fierce contests for best sightings documented on eBird, Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s public database. All of which Rogers

finds herself, much to her surprise, actually doing.

Florida readers will particularly enjoy her jaunt through the Everglades, heart set on finding a flamingo. No luck there – but she does find some Shiny Cowbirds, a Roseate Spoonbill, some startling alligators, and some cool history about the plume trade in south Florida.

Rogers’s voice is distinct in its honest and self-effacing humor, but there’s an edge of urgency as she reports on the “dire statistics” around plummeting bird populations.

“I didn’t feel despair,” she writes, “rather dizzy with disbelief and overwhelmed with an urgency to see the birds. This urge was part selfish desire, but not entirely. Hooked into my sentiment was a sense that my witness of the birds could – would ­keep them tethered to this earth.”

Fundamentally, “Learning the Birds” is a story of self-discovery in a phase of life that is under-explored, and, like many of the “unremarkable” birds it documents, very much worth paying attention to.

Pasadena Community Church

Second Saturday Singers Presents Vintage PB & J (Pop, Broadway & Jazz)

Saturday, April 9, 2022 2:00 p.m.

Featuring Guest Artists Laurie Ryan, Joe Grady, and Brooke Stuart Barbershop Quartet: Dewey, Singem & Howe

Concert is FREE with a Love Offering

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

227 70th Street S. • St. Petersburg, FL 33707

19

food All in the (PJ’s) Family

One Family’s Love Affair with Fish

By Abby Baker

ABBY BAKER

Stone crab is a must-try.

PJ’s Oyster Bar on St. Pete Beach has the type of rubbery booths and LED fish decor that suggests that locals eat here, and locals know best.

Co-owner Kelli Umstead took time out of her afternoon to recommend the chilled stone crab and fried grouper while she told The Gabber PJ’s story.

Buying the joint was an obvious career path for Umstead, who grew up around the local seafood scene in Clearwater. Umstead’s father, a lawyer, kept his saltwater products license so he could provide fresh seafood for his family to his heart’s content, despite limits imposed on recreational anglers.

Umstead grew up on her father’s catches, worked at a Robin’s, a Clearwater fish market, and started fishing with him as a toddler in the late ‘60s.

Her job was to catch fish and hook stone crab floats.

His love of the water instilled in her a love for fresh-caught fish.

Fast forward 30 years.

In 1998, Bret and Kelli, who met through a mutual friend, got married.

Bret worked as a server at the St. Pete Beach PJ’s since 1993, a year after it

20

opened. By the time Bret and Kelli wed, he’d worked his way up to bartender, then bar manager.

“We wanted to own a restaurant but the success rate for buying a restaurant and building from the ground up is so low,” Umstead said. “It’s so much overhead.”

The Umsteads told the former owners, Judy and “Mr.” Ed Rosicky, they’d

buy PJ’s, if the Rosickys ever wanted to sell and the timing was right.

In 2007, the time was right for Judy and Mr. Ed and the Umsteads, who took out a second mortgage on their home and bought the business.

After some legalities – including nine hours of counting inventory – the Umsteads owned everything, down to the beer cans and booths, some of which still sport fish art done by the Vitale Brothers.

15 years later, the restaurant doesn’t look much different.

“We haven’t changed, changed anything,” Kelly said.

That includes some of the servers.

Longtime server and bartender Enoch Greiner has been with PJ’s for 13 years. Greiner started as a server two years after the Umsteads bought the place.

“It’s a comfortable atmosphere, [and] the owners are easy to get along with,” Greiner said. “It’s a mixed crowd, locals in the fall and northerners at the end of the year, and always tourists.”

The beer cooler is more stocked than ever (including local brews) and the seafood is as fresh as feasibly possible.

But really, PJ’s is about the family who runs it, their love of local seafood, and the staff who keep it going.

un dries • Kitchen & Serveware • Gourmet Foods • Gifts, Cards, Books • Stella’s Gear and Souvenirs 2908-A Beach Boulevard (in the heart of the Village) 727-303-0976 theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

worship Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church

17th St. & 29th Ave N St. Petersburg 345-7777 Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

2728 53rd St. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 (Entrance on 28th Ave.)

Where ALL are welcome at the Lord’s table.

Come and See...

Sunday Mass 9:30am www.goodshepherdocc.net 727-403-7178

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION 330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach Reverend Omar Reyes

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

Affiliated with

St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

Saturday 4/16 The Great Vigil 7:30 pm

5441 9 th Ave N. • St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Easter Sunday 10:00 am

Easter & Sunday Services 10AM Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

Wednesdays March 9 - April 6 Lent Services 6pm

Sunday Service

10am with Holy Communion

727-360-5739

paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00

Thursday 4/14 Agape Supper 6:00 pm, Service 6:30 pm Good Friday 4/15 Stations of the Cross at noon

Paradise Lutheran Church

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net “You need not think alike to love alike.”

- Francis David, 1534

uuunited.org

Their life deserves more than five lines.

We make sharing it affordable.

Remember your loved ones forever with us.

• Free obituaries available; prices range from $10-$300 • Obituary on Legacy included In partnership with

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

21

obituaries

SHULMAN FAMILY

Marjorie Ellen “Margie” Shulman After a brief illness, Marjorie Ellen “Margie” Shulman passed away at the Suncoast Hospice in St. Petersburg on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. Her loving husband, Frank Bonnevie, and family were by her side. She was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts on December 31, 1949 where she grew up. She and her husband resided in Town Shores. Margie is survived by her children and their families: David Finkelstein, wife, Valerie Sugiyama, and their daughter Lily, of Pleasanton, California; Jamie Lacroix and her daughter, Emmy of

Stoughton, Massachusetts; Jesse Shulman of Pittsfield; Erika Bonnevie, partner, Cam Wiley, and son, Anderson of San Diego, California; and Frank Bonnevie III, wife Kate, and their son, Frank, IV, of El Paso, Texas. She also leaves her two siblings and their families, Jim Shulman and wife, Jackie of Galena, Ohio; and Nancy Shulman of Gulfport.; her Aunt Cecily Levine, who was like a second mother; her cousin, Amy Levine, who was like a sister, and many other cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families. She was predeceased by her parents, Irving and

Helen Lenhoff Shulman. Margie graduated Pittsfield High School in 1967 and Northeastern University in 1971 with a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature. She also earned a master’s degree in Education from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Following undergraduate college, she was a store manager at Jim’s House of Shoes, the family business in Pittsfield, and became co-owner of the business. After 30 years at Jim’s she took a position with Pittsfield’s Helen Berube Teen Parent Program where she taught high school students.

Marjorie was an ordained minister in the non-denominational Alliance of Divine Love Ministry and had performed numerous weddings. She was also a member of Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg.

She enjoyed participating in new age and meditative programs as tai chi. She loved being with her husband Frank and especially traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren.

Margie was an avid reader and an extraordinary communicator in keeping in touch with many people while also caring for her own family. She was a good listener, problem solver, and catalyst for change. Marjorie Shulman will always be remembered for her warmth and her love of life.

A private gathering was held for immediate family with funeral arrangements by the David Gross Funeral Parlor in St. Petersburg.

Looking to Buy or Sell? I’m here for you!

Professional. Trusted. Local Expert.

Patrick Mortimer PA Broker Associate Realtor®

PatrickMortimer.ForeverFloridaRealEstate.com • 727-220-8600 • PatrickSellsFLA@gmail.com 22

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

crossword

Solution on page 27

Musical Travel Modes

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 27

VIA BETH TAYLOR

sudoku

Gulfportian Beth Taylor vacations – along with her favorite newspaper – in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, at one of several ports of call on a 10-day cruise. Can you see our tan lines?

Have you taken the Gabber somewhere? We want to see your pictures! Please send a high-resolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

23

GULFPORT

North End Taphouse

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD MD CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT ON-SITE BLOOD DRAWS • GENERAL SICK VISITS FLU SHOTS • PT/INR • B-12 SHOTS SPORTS PHYSICALS• WELL WOMAN EXAMS GEL JOINT INJECTIONS • PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA) WELLNESS SCREENINGS • ELECTROCARDIOGRAMS WOUND CARE • PHYSICAL THERAPY NON-SURGICAL FRACTURE MANAGEMENT, ETC.

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S. Friday, April 8: Barney & Friends, 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 9: Leify Green, 3 p.m.; Wyatt Norton, 7 pm.

Sunday, April 10 Dead Set Florida, 3 p.m.

ST. PETE BEACH

Chill Restaurant and Bar 357 Corey Ave. Friday, April 8: Motel Funk, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 9: Magic, 6:30 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ka’Tiki Beach Bar and Grille

8803 W. Gulf Blvd.

Friday, April 8: Almost There, 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 9: The Gearz, 1 p.m.

Scream Machine, 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 10: Pete N Dean Trio, 1 p.m.

Cornfused, 6 p.m.

MADEIRA BEACH

Lucky Lizard Taphouse 14953 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, April 8: Ryan Marchand, 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 9: Savannah Lee, 2 p.m.; Billy Floyd, 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 10: Karaoke Night, 3 p.m.

NOW ACCEPTING

And Many Other Insurances!

DRLABRADOR.COM • BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS

LABRADOR PRIMARY CARE CENTER Now TWO convenient locations:

2191 9th Ave N #220, St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-327-9667 6775 Crosswinds Dr N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | 727-381-8006 BILINGUAL STAFF • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL 24

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Adult Easter Egg Hunt, Pepper Fest + Haunted Gulfport Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

Thursday, April 7 Haunted Gulfport Ever wondered what spirits may linger in Gulfport? It’s not just the locally (in)famous ghost at the Historic Peninsula Inn. Gulfport’s Haunted Walking Tour leads tour-goers through the city as they learn the historic and scary history of haunted Gulfport. This 90-minute walking tour was created by Deborah Frethem, who wrote the book — literally — on Gulfport’s dark side. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S. 8 p.m. $15. gulfporthistoricalsociety.org Saturday, April 9 Watercolor Workshop Gulfport watercolor artist Shara Bunis is leading a morning painting class at Beach House 5317. The class will start with basic techniques and eventually get to the good stuff: paint on canvas.

They provide everything (except the artists!) and artists take their creation home. Beach House 5317, 5317 Gulfport Boulevard. 10 a.m. $50 beachhouse5317.com STEM Saturday Does your child want to learn about rockets, energy, and chemistry? TEAM Elevate hosts STEM Saturday at the Child’s Park Recreation Center. Sign up for a Saturday morning filled with learning and fun. Ages 8-13. Childs Park Recreation Center, 4301 13th Ave. St. S. Pete. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. surveymonkey.com/r/STEMSEP2021

$400. eventbrite.com/e/mermosabubbles-brunch-fest-at-st-pete-piertickets-273193177147 Art Guild Show The Treasure Island Community Center hosts an Art Guild Show on the second Saturday of each month. These meetings include an art demonstration by a local creator, and they announce winners. Treasure Island Community Center, 10315 Paradise Blvd., Treasure Island. 12-3 p.m. theartguild.board@gmail.com Kayak the Blues Enjoy the Tampa Bay Blues Festival from the comfort of your kayak. Wandering Adventures offers a sunset kayak paddle along the edge of Vinoy Park, just a few feet from where bands play their hearts out. Beginner paddlers welcome. Demens Landing, 1st Ave. SE, St. Pete. 6 p.m. $45. 850-252-2481.

Egg Hunt (After Dark) Who says adults can’t enjoy an egg hunt? The Pinellas Pioneer Settlement is the spot of an adults-only, Easter egg night hunt. Bring a flashlight and a basket and search for Easter eggs in the dark. In traditional egg hunt fashion, they’ll have prizes, but instead of candy, winners get gift cards and novelty items. Pinellas

Pioneer Settlement, 2900 31st St. S., St. Pete. 7:30 p.m. $5. eventbrite. com/e/adult-only-easter-egg-hunttickets-291340034887 Saturday, April 9- Sunday, April 10 Pinellas Peppers The 15th Anniversary of Pinellas Pepper Fest is coming in hot. This hot-and-spicy food show is painfully delicious, big on flavor, and cooked up to be one of the hottest local food events of the season. Sample and purchase a collection of sauces, salsas, seasonings, rubs, plants, food products, and more. As always, there will be a smoking competition at the Favorite Hot Sauce Competition, the Extreme Lolli Lick-A-Thon (the hottest lollipop in the world) and the Jalapeño Pepper Eating Contest. England Brothers Park, 5010 81st Ave., Pinellas Park. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. fb.com/ PinellasPepperFest Disney’s Dalmatians Are you rooting for the spotted puppies or Cruella de Vil? Enjoy Disney’s “101 Dalmatians Kids,” a play featuring London’s black-and-white dancing dogs. Recommended for grades 1-6, or anyone who loves this childhood classic. Catherine A. Hickman The-

Things To Do continued on page 26 THE NORTH END TAPHOUSE HAS A DELI-STYLE MENU WITH LOCALLY BREWED BEERS AND MORE.

Brunch Festival Enjoy brunch, morning cocktails, and live music at the Mermosa Bubbles & Brunch Fest hosted by Mermosa Wines on the St. Pete Pier. Tickets include bubbly tastings, vendors, a DJ battle, an R&B performance by J’Nelle, and brunch-friendly foods. There’s lots to see and taste. St. Pete Pier, 800 2nd Ave. NE, St. Pete. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $12-

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

We have LIVE ENTERTAINMENT every day and OPEN MIC every Tuesday, located in the Village Courtyard.

Apr 7

John Frinzi .................... 6-9

Apr 8

Barney & Friends ...7-10

Apr 9

Leify Green................... 3-6 Wyatt Norton ...........7-10

Apr 10 Dead Set Florida...... 3-6 Apr 11 Team Trivia ..........8:30-10 Apr 12 Open Mic .....................7-10

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL

Apr 13 Hot Tonic........................ 6-9

25

Things To Do continued from page 25 ater, 5501 27th Ave. S. Sat; 3-4 p.m., 6-7 p.m. Sun., 3-4 p.m. $16. simpletix.com/e/spmad-presents-disneys-101-dalmatians-kids-tickets102243#smtx-click Sunday, April 10 Midday Music Looking for some afternoon chill? You’re never far from live music on St. Pete Beach. The Boca Ciega Ballroom will host midday performances by Lew Barrows and The Rhythm Kings. Light refreshments. Boca Ciega Ballroom, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach.

2-4 p.m. 727-367-2735.

Monday, April 11 Writer’s Group Looking for a place to share your writing and gain insight? Gulf Beaches Public Library hosts a Monday morning writer’s group. Bring your scripts, books, poems – even half-formed ideas to a safe place. Gulf Beaches Library, 200 Municipal Dr., Ma-

deira Beach. 10 a.m. gulfbeacheslibrary.org Wednesday, April 13 Gulfport Town Hall Gulfport invites residents to get to know their city, speak on local issues, and ask pressing questions at a town hall. Hosted

by Gulfport councilmember Paul Ray, everyone can attend this open discussion. The topics of the night get determined as attendees mention them.

Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. 7-8:30 p.m. 727-826-7209

Thursday, April 14 Dance Away Thursday dancing, anyone? Enjoy a vigorous dance class led by Renee Elliott to popular music with easy-to-follow steps. Dance fusion is a blend of hip hop, jazz, ballet, and Latin dance from current artists such as Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake, and Pit Bull. Treasure Island Community Center, 10315 Paradise Blvd., Treasure Island.

9 a.m. treasurebaygolfandtennis. com

The City of Gulfport presents

”FUN IN THE SUN” DAY Saturday, April 16th

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Gulfport Recreation Center • 5730 Shore Blvd. S.

JOIN US FOR FREE FESTIVITIES THAT WILL INCLUDE AN EGG HUNT FOR CHILDREN 8 AND UNDER, A RAFFLE FOR BASKETS, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES, MUSIC, FOOD, AND FUN. Children will also have the opportunity to explore their favorite vehicles: Police car, Police boat, Fire truck, Ambulance, Garbage truck and many more.

Remember to bring a basket for the Egg Hunt and a camera to capture photo with Peter Cottontail.

Egg hunt starts at 10:00 a.m. Sharp!

26

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

solution

ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR NEXT THURSDAY’S ISSUE IS FRIDAY BY 5 p.m.

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

27

CLASSIFIEDS

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 3 p.m.

MAYNARD ELECTRIC • Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Circuits Added • Phone Wiring • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More

Accounting

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonprofits. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor.

10+ years experience.

Call/text to 727-248-0714 or email to nspence@clearnumbers.biz

Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area.

Family owned and local business. Providing in-home personal aid companion care, after surgery care, 24-hour care, dementia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472 hwcg.com/StPete-Beach AHCA #299995153

CAROL’S ERRANDS & MORE

Do you need help with daily activities? I can be of assistance to you! Shopping, meal planning/meal prep, transportation to & from appointments, help around the home, and more. 727-365-0884.

Classes / Tutoring

RECREATIONAL BOATING SAFETY COURSE

USCG Auxiliary Flotilla in Gulfport will hold a Recreational Boating Safety Class, Saturday April 9, 2022 at 3120 Mariam St. S. in Gulfport. Class starts at 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Contact Marty Richardson at merichardsonjr@att.net or 630-674-5352 to reserve a seat.

Cleaning / Housekeeping CINDY’S TOP NOTCH CLEANING Where spotless cleaning comes to your door.

Residential/Office/Basic/Deep Cleaning/ Weekly/Bi-weekly/Monthly/Occasional.

727-846-3400

28

Window Cleaning, Pressure Washing, Soft Washing, and more!

Licensed and Insured

727-698-1213

24 Hour Service

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

Abccleanexteriors.com

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT!

Computer Service

Handy Person

Gulfport Computer Repair

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy helper. Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, mulch, sod, and plants installed.

Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Start the New Year off right. St. Pete / Gulfport area. James: 407-244-6045

Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs. Small jobs welcome. Quality work at reasonable prices. Honest. Reliable. Free estimates. John: 727-410-2201.

Heating & Air Conditioning

COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838

In-Home services: Internet security, training, virus & spyware removal, maintenance and repair, data recovery. (PC & Mac) JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile computer repair – $40 per visit/hour – 727-643-0697; jmswebservices.com Electrical

Home Improvement

727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

5030 78th Ave. N. Suite 12, Pinellas Park, FL 33781

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED

BLINDS, DRAPES, SHADES, & SHUTTERS INSTALLATION SERVICE

Installation and repair of all window treatments.Over 25 years experience. Jim Richardson. Phone/text-727-504-5909. Email: jrjruf@ gmail.com. Licensed/Insured

EC-13008313

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Insurance

Miscellaneous Service

FUNERAL & CREMATION PLANNING & PRE-FUNDING

THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out. Recycling, organizing, and yard work.

Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

Learn how you can set up a plan simply and affordably, in advance – with a lifetime guarantee of NO rate increases, ever. Call Karon Dixon at 727-279-5185. Receive a free planning guide.

Lawn & Landscape

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Rich Moseley, irrigation contractor. 25 years experience. Reasonable rates. Well & pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from PVC fence, siding - stucco - wood, pavers, railings, windows and most other surfaces around your house or business including signage. Cars, too. Free estimate and demonstration. Surprisingly low prices.

Call/text 727-360-7070 Email RustStainRemoval@icloud.com

Moving / Hauling CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & trash removal. Low, low prices guaranteed. Daily specials. Kitchen, bath, shed, fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-831-0507.

SKIP PICKUP & DELIVERY

Mondays and Tuesdays. Have 14 foot box truck, willing to help. 727-320-3297 Painting

BYRON JOHNSON PAINTING PLUS, INC.

Time to refresh the interior/exterior of your house or business? High quality, professional painting. Free estimates. Lic.#9894.

Insured. 727-365-1088

Help Wanted

LADIES FASHION ACCESSORY SHOP & HAT SHOP

In John’s Pass need part-time sales help.

Day & night shifts available. Great pay, fun atmosphere. 727-430-0276 Positions Wanted

WILLING AND ABLE HELPER, LIGHT GARDEN WORK

Repotting, weeding, clearing, trimming, watering. I am an able-bodied female who loves being outdoors. I can use your tools and offer my helping hands. Local lady, raised in St. Pete, friendly, happy nature.

727-370-7920 DO YOU NEED A LIVE-IN CAREGIVER? Licensed, experienced, references, full vaccinated, COVID-free. Call Lorraine: 727-410-2500

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

30 years experience. Painting expert plus wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arney 727-900-3459 Plumbing

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

#CFC1430429 State-certified, residential/ commercial service. Senior and military discount. $25 off service with ad. Locally owned and operated.

Professional Services

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Search Services of Florida, Inc.

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

Planting • Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Cabling/Bracing • Pruning/Shaping

727-220-0226

General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341

DESPERATELY SEEKING ZOOMERS!

We need to find where the former owner of Zoomers reopened his shop. We saw you last year at Siri’s and took down your info, but can’t find it. Please call or text 727-360-7070.

Health & Fitness

• Silver Sneakers • Renew Active • Indoor Cycling • Yoga & More • Massage • Physical Therapy • Personal & Small Group Training

575 75th Ave, St Pete Beach 727-367-0075 www.iamfitforlife.com

AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

THEGABBER.COM

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

29

Wanted

BUYING VINTAGE COSTUME JEWELRY, I MAKE HOUSE CALLS

Buying Vintage Costume Jewelry from the 1980s back. I make house calls. Call Kaye anytime. I am available every day except Sunday. 239-560-2816 - Kaye’s Vintage Jewelry Yard / Garage Sale

ANNUAL COMMUNITY SALE

Pasadena Golf Club Estates, Saturday 4/9, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (rain day 4/10). Turn off 22nd Ave. S./Gulfport Blvd S onto Royal Palm S. or Robin Rd. S. and follow the signs for tons of sales throughout the neighborhood! No Early Birds, please.

YARD SALE APRIL 9-10, 9 A.M. - 2 P.M. 230 Park St. N. (at Burlington). Give away prices. Dishes, X-mas, furniture, boat stuff, gas cans, office items, commercial lawn edger, lawn chairs, quilt rack, VHS & CDs. Some FREE things. No early birds, please.

Real Estate For Sale CONDO 890SQFT FSBO GULFPORT SHORES 2900 45th St. S. Unit 11. Refurbished throughout. On Boca Ciega Bay. See Zillow add for pictures. Navigate to FSBO. Built 1962, 2 stories, breathtaking sunrises and launches. Open House Sat./Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 727-322-2650.

Place your classified line ads online!

NEW HOME FOR SALE - 5310 21ST AVE. S. GULFPORT

Deadline for classified ads is 3 p.m. Friday for the following week’s issue.

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 car garage. 2,098 htd sqft. No flood insurance required! Features: impact windows, stainless steel appliance package, cathedral ceilings, new fenced in yard with sprinkler system. Call David with C.R.R. - 727-244-0989

I

GULFPORT

6202 7TH AVE. S. $750,000 - UNDER CONTRACT

1.3 ACRE LOT NEAR WESLEY CHAPEL $65,000

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com Furnished Rentals 2/BD 1/BA WATERFRONT UPPER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Available April 4, 2022 through January 3, 2023. Parking, cable, utilities included. Utilities in excess of $100/ month passed on to the tenant. On-site Laundry, 90-day minimum lease. Small, non-shedding dogs welcome. $4500/ month. Contact JenM@hjmholdings.com 1/BD 1/BA WATERFRONT LOWER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Available April 22, 2022 through January 3, 2023. 90 day minimum lease. Parking, cable, utilities up to $100 tenant pays anything over. On-site Laundry, small non-shedding dogs welcome. $2500/month. Contact JenM@hjmholdings.com

Nelda Hamm

3037 Beach Blvd. S. 505 Pasadena Ave. S.

I LIVE and SPECIALIZE in Town Shores...

Call me TODAY and see how I can help you SELL or BUY your home.

Open House

BUCKINGHAM OPEN HOUSE 1-4 P.M.

Sunday, April 10. Lovely renovated 2-BR Town Shores waterfront condo for sale. Beautiful views from open balcony, updated complete kitchen and baths with carport, A must to see retirement living at its best! $525,000.

Doreen Wagner & Assoc, LLC. 727-656-7557 Real Estate For Rent CONDO FOR RENT Condo for Rent in South Pasadena. 2 Bedroom 1 Bath. Fully furnished $1,300.00 a month. Available starting April 1st. Contact 727-363-1074

30

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

theGabber.com

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

Real Estate Snapshots

Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week

Here’s What Sold in Gulfport Last Week

5205 23rd Ave. S. (Waterfront District) This 1,042 square foot, two-bedroom, one-bath home – built in 1951 – sold for $520,000 cash.

805 58th St. S. (Stetson) This 1,043 square foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home – built in 2001 – sold for $449,000.

BARRY LOPER

1619 54th St. S. (Tangerine) This 1,364 square foot, two bedroom, one bath home – built in 1951 – sold for $435,000.

5940 Pelican Bay Plaza South, #4 (Pasadena Yacht & Country Club) This 1,476 square-foot, two-bedroom, two bath condo – built in 1983 – sold for $367,000 cash.

5925 Shore Blvd. S., #509 (Town Shores) This 1,060 square-foot one-bedroom, one-bath condo – built in 1972 – sold for $255,000 cash.

4824 29th Ave. S. (Marina) This 1,462 square-foot home has two bedrooms and two baths, and dates to 1958. It sold for $565,000 cash.

5925 Shore Blvd. S., #410 (Town Shores) This 1,060 square-foot one-bedroom, one-bath condo – built in 1972 – sold for $250,000 cash.

5517 12th Ave. S. (Tangerine) This two-bedroom, 1-bath home, built in 1951, sold for $235,000. It has 672 square feet.

Old Florida Charm in the Heart of Old Gulfport

1840 51st St S • $299,000

5002 28th Ave S • $949,000

5108 Tangerine Ave S • $600,000

2902 53rd Ave S • $499,000

4724 Coronado Way S • $600,000 5419 Delette Ave S $975,000

2902 Beach Blvd S.

www.GulfportRealty.com

(727) 289-5500

#1 Listing Agency in Gulfport! theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022

31

FREE NEW PATIENT EXAM X-RAYS & TEETH WHITENING *

Coast Dental Pasadena

South Pasadena Shopping Center 6882 Gulfport Blvd S St. Petersburg, FL 33707

General Dentistry and Cosmetic Services

Schedule Your Appointment Today! Agents Available 24/7

(877) 880-1212 | CoastDental.com *For new patients without insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, or a discount dental plan. Offer does not include panoramic x-ray which may be required (D0330/$23). FREE. ADA D0150/D0210/0096. Save $262.FreeProfessionalTake-HomeTeethWhitening.ADV–FreeWhiteningSpecial–Marketing2020.$25value.Offerlimitedtooneperpatient,whilesupplieslast.Minimumfeeonly.Feemayvarywithcomplexity of case. THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, ORTREATMENTTHATISPERFORMEDASARESULTOFANDWITHIN72HOURSOFRESPONDINGTOTHEADVERTISEMENTFORTHEFREE,DISCOUNTEDFEE,ORREDUCEDFEESERVICE,EXAMINATION,ORTREATMENT.ThedentistsandhygienistsareemployeesorindependentcontractorsofCoastFlorida,P.A.,orCoastDental,P.A.,(AdamDiasti,DDS,DN12490).©2021CoastDental.Allrightsreserved. CD-103226 R2/22

32

theGabber.com | April 7, 2022 - April 13, 2022