The Gabber: May 12, 2022

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2760

May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Jeremiah Makes History Jeremiah Daniels IV has a mind made for numbers, and he’s used it to earn a history-making title as the first Black male salutatorian at Boca Ciega High School.

Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Daniels credits his mom and teachers for his success.

“I would say the way my parents raised me and the teachers that supported me made this possible,” Daniels told The Gabber.

Daniels says he was shooting for valedictorian, but his GPA is at 4.63, .02 points shy of Julia Pierce, Boca Ciega’s valedictorian.

Regardless, Daniels says he feels blessed to make history, notably Black history, in St. Petersburg.

He plans to attend Florida State University and pursue a degree in computer science.

Daniel’s mom Brittney is proud but not surprised about her son’s career goals.

“It comes natural to him; he’s our tech guy at home. He’s the holder of all the pass codes,” Brittney said with a laugh. “It’s like his brain processes differently. We’re so proud of him, and this is just the begin-

Jeremiah continued on page 9

HOME LOANS

JEREMIAH DANIELS IV

By Abby Baker

Jeremiah Daniels is the first Black male salutatorian at Boca Ciega High School.

DINE-IN •

CARRY-OUT •

FAST/EXPERIENCED/LOCAL LOW OR NO FEES

CALL OR TEXT TODAY! 727-777-6305 DAVE TUCKER

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE! FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1992 30 YEARS OF FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD 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

publisher’s note Every Day is Thursday 2908-B Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 727-321-6965 Publisher

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Editor

editor@thegabber.com

Creative Director Joey Neill

Advertising Director Chris Madalena

chris@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney

info@thegabber.com

Reporters & Contributors

Since 1968, our community’s anticipated Thursday mornings so they can get a copy of The Gabber. It’s something of a tradition, especially in Gulfport, the city by the sea where it all started. Today, we reach far further, of course, but in Gulfport, Thursdays are Gabber days.

You may not know how much more we have online. Last month, we published more than 100 articles on our website, thegabber.com – and that’s not counting the events calendar. We publish articles daily, and lot of those don’t make it into the print version because, simply put, we don’t have the space. That’s the beauty of the internet: We can include the uncut versions of letters to the editor, longer versions of articles, and more news than we could possibly fit in the weekly paper. While we send the physical paper to the printer on Tuesday afternoons and can’t print coverage of Tuesday night council meetings until the following week, we publish that coverage online within a day or two of the meeting – in some instances, even before the Thursday paper hits the streets. There’s really no reason not to read us online – you can even make the type size as big as you’d like it on your web browser: Use the command key (iOS users) or control key (Windows users) and the plus sign at the same time. Plus, you never have to worry about finding a paper, and you won’t get newsprint on your fingers.

Abby Baker, Events Editor & Breaking News Monroe Roark, News + Politics Mike Sunnucks, Crime Amanda Hagood, Books Nano Riley, Environment Jon Kile, Columnist Resie Waechter, Outdoors & Fitness

Old habits die hard, though, and many of our die-hard print readers don’t read us online. I understand that – I love the feel of holding a physical paper, and rest assured, our print edition isn’t going anywhere. But if you want the latest scoop on what’s happening in your neighborhood, make it a morning habit to check thegabber.com. That’s where you’ll find the most up-to-date information about what’s happening in Gulfport, the beaches, West St. Pete, South Pasadena, and all the other communities we serve.

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

Think of us as a daily paper that prints a weekly edition, rather than a weekly paper with a few stories online. But whatever you do, think of us daily – at thegabber.com.

—Cathy

Owners Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper 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

GULF BEACHES LAW, P. A. Karen S. Keaton, Esquire ESTATE PLANNING

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

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

voices

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

St. Pete Beach Pays Church $250,000 Editor’s Note: Although the City of St. Pete Beach did not respond to our reporter’s request for comment prior to publishing the article about the court-ordered payment of $250,000 to Pass-a-Grille Community Church, their lawyer did send us an email, via the City’s public information officer, for print.

The City did not violate any laws while enforcing its local codes. In order to avoid additional litigation and disharmony, the City and the PassA-Grille Beach Community Church made a pragmatic decision to resolve their differences and craft a settlement that gives the City, the Church and the public, clarity regarding the use of the Church’s private parking

areas. The settlement is a good example of several competing interests being resolved with open and honest dialog. The City of St. Pete Beach is blessed with world-renowned beaches, but this geography comes with regulator and operational challenges.

Balancing the City’s beach popularity with the rights of full-time City residents, houses of worship, and businesses is complex. The settlement between the City and the Church is a fair balance of many interests. The parties agreed to let the court decide the attorney fee amount, now being widely publicized, which were paid to the Church’s attorneys by the City’s insurance carrier. The City and the Church are working together under the terms of the settlement agreement. –Andrew Dickman, City of St. Pete Beach legal counsel

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.

GET SOMETHING MEMORABLE FOR YOUR GRAD.

6801 Gulfport Blvd #12 • South Pasadena 727-344-2524 • TheCenturyJewelers.com

MORE THAN ANTIQUES… HOME DÉCOR • UNIQUE GIFTS • LAMPS QUALITY WALL ART…PRINTS & STAINED GLASS. USABLE VINTAGE…ICE BUCKETS • GLASSWARE

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

727-224-5126

un dries

• Kitchen & Serveware • Gourmet Foods • Gifts, Cards, Books • Stella’s Gear & Souvenirs

Join us for our saturday Morning fresH Market • 9a-1p Hours: Mon-sat 8a-6p & sun noon-4p

2908-A Beach Boulevard (in the heart of the Village) 727-303-0976 theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

1418 58tH street s.

727.873.3478

3

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

4

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

news Short-Term Rentals; Long-Term Discussion

Spurred by Two Meetings of Public Comment, Gulfport Officials Promise to Act

By Monroe Roark

Gulfportian Robert Salta cited data that shows that for every 1% increase in Airbnbs, overall rents increase as well – by the same amount.

The ongoing issue of short-term rental properties in Gulfport dominated the discussion and public comment at the May 3 meeting of the City Council.

Motivated by the pleas of other residents as well as issues they have observed in their own neighborhoods, Council directed Gulfport city staff to gather information that could tackle the problem on two fronts: The legalities surrounding the possibility of implementing some kind of rent control, and the potential costs associated with beefing up the code enforcement department’s ability to ferret out illegal rental activity.

No fewer than a half-dozen speakers during public comment time ad-

dressed these issues.

Robert Salta noted that during previous discussions of the problem, there has been little if any mention of its economic effect on the rest of the community. He cited data showing that for every 1% increase in the number of Airbnbs in a particular city, the overall rents increase by the same amount. He also gave examples of cities such as Boston and Barcelona where rents have skyrocketed because of this.

“These are massive increases in rent we are having while already in the midst of a rental crisis,” said Salta, adding that a move to step up enforcement of illegal activity would inevitably save the City money in the long run.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Noreen Smith said that, after moving to Gulfport nine years ago and deciding to make it her retirement home, she may have to leave because it is too expensive to live here. The rent on her 600-squarefoot residence has increased 50% in nine months, she said.

She listed several friends who have already moved or might have to very soon, including some who are sleeping on other people’s couches, because of this problem.

“It’s pretty sad and it’s very, very scary,” she said. “It’s truly a crisis happening here. These rent increases and short-term rentals are essentially pushing us all out of town.

Rentals continued on page 6

5

Rentals continued from page 5 We are losing the people who made Gulfport, and that concerns me.”

Smith read from what she said was State legislation that allows local governments to implement rent control measures “when there is a housing crisis sufficient to create a menace to the public.” She left that documentation with the city clerk so that officials could examine it further.

Linda Breen, a 10-year resident, thanked the Council for not tinkering with Gulfport’s existing ordinance and risking the potential loss of all possible governance in this area due to recent actions at the state level, which have removed home rule. She was one of several residents who expressed their satisfaction with that, and the Council was unanimous in its opinion that whatever action is taken down the road does not in any way involve changing the ordinance.

“The illegal Airbnbs created a false market of supply and demand for rentals, and home prices that created a serious housing crisis for hundreds if not thousands of people and families in our community,” said Breen, who added that proper action could result in rent prices leveling off to a more reasonable range and might get some residents who have left to move back.

“Illegal renters have no incentive to do anything differently,” she said.

“If a penalty is minimal, there is no incentive to stop illegal activity.”

Some simple math on Breen’s part suggested that if illegal renters were fined $1,000 each, it could easily

fund whatever extra resources were Councilmember Michael Fridovich needed for code enforcement, which related a somewhat amusing exis currently handled by a single city change he had in a grocery store with staff member. an out-of-town visitor.

Eddie Ford, who moved to Gulfport “You have way too many Airbtwo years ago, said he converted nbs here,” she said. “In our town we from renter to homeowner for his reswouldn’t allow them.” idence and did so just in time before Fridovich simply replied, “Most of it became unaffordable. A software them are illegal.” That shut down the developer by profession, he offered conversation immediately, he said, as free assistance to the City in the form he knew this woman was staying in a of an app that he said would streamshort-term rental herself. line the reporting of illegal rentals.

Councilmember April Thanos acHe asked for the opportunity to meet knowledged that the owners of many with Gulfport offiof these properties “Illegal renters have no think they are imcials at a later time to find out exact- incentive to do anything proving the area ly what would be because they are differently,” she said. needed to put his maintaining them “If a penalty is minimal, appropriately and plan in motion. there is no incentive to bringing in tourism, “I love this town and I hate to see which helps local stop illegal activity.” all my friends move businesses.

She out because of greed,” he said. noted one such rental in her neighKaren Love made it clear that she borhood which she said is operating favors increased City involvement. legally.

“Why aren’t we enforcing our resi“But there is still someone different dential ordinances?” Love asked. “Get in there every month,” she said. “You another code enforcement person don’t have neighbors anymore. The and get this done.” people are gone.”

A resident of Seaside Villas who Councilmember Paul Ray said that participated in public comment by when he heard the names of some phone stated that her rent has risof the people who have moved out en more than 20% this year and she of the City, it had an impact on him knows others who have seen theirs because he knew many of those go up even more. She said seven of people. He lamented the way that her friends have had to move out of this situation is changing the landGulfport the past few months bescape. cause of rent increases. As a para“What I fell in love with in Gulfport plegic in a wheelchair, she said she is was the people,” he said. “The more particularly concerned about how the of these people who move out, the rentals listed on Airbnb and VRBO are more we are losing the character of not required to be wheelchair-accesGulfport. And that’s pretty much the sible. end of us.”

30% OFF Your Next Purchase

Call now for your free consultation!

727-821-0976

Showroom by appointment only • 800 Pasadena Ave S

Blinds • Shutters • Shades • Motorization •

©2020 Budget Blinds, LLC. All rights reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

6

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Ray also cited the difficulty of enforcement, such as the houses in his neighborhood that host late-night parties for which police are often called. Each time such a situation is resolved, a new group of tourists moves in the following week and it starts all over again, he said.

Mayor Sam Henderson asked that Gulfport’s attorneys find out what legal options the council might have as far as addressing the rent issue as was suggested during public comment time. He also pointed out that not every renter in the city falls into the category of a villain.

“Not everyone is coming in from somewhere else and gouging renters,” he said. “Some are just trying to make extra money and doing a good job.”

But, he added, he knows the issue is real because he has a family member of his own who will be changing residences this summer because of high rent, perhaps moving in with him or another relative.

City manager Jim O’Reilly reminded the council and the audience that there are essentially two separate issues at play. In addition to the legal advisors looking at rent options,

READ THE FULL ISSUE ONLINE!

he suggested that his office draft a budget for increased code enforcement.

“We’ve got some tools, but it’s a matter of resources,” he said. “If the council wants to do it, we can move forward and get the message out to those who are illegal.”

O’Reilly noted that in Indian Rocks Beach, where some of his friends are selling their homes and moving out, the city government made changes to its ordinance and now has no enforcement mechanisms because of recent state interference in home rule. After that comment, all of the council members reiterated their intention not to do that with the current Gulfport ordinance.

The City gets numerous phone calls every week from companies asking where short-term rentals are allowed, according to O’Reilly, and staff tells callers that it’s not permitted in about 97% of Gulfport. That leads many owners to simply sell to someone else, he said.

“The hospitality lobby is against [short-term rentals] because the hotels and restaurants want customers on campus,” said O’Reilly.

“The Realtors are just looking for a

product to sell. You have two of the biggest lobbyist groups in the state of Florida clashing over this topic.”

No such conflict exists on the Gulfport City Council.

“There’s a lot of things we don’t agree on up here, for sure. We’ve had our go-rounds,” said Henderson.

“If we didn’t have different opinions, there’d be no point in having five people on this council. But I can safely say that nobody sitting up here wants to sell this place out to people coming from the outside with big money.”

Henderson reiterated that there are real issues to address with regard to how Gulfport can regulate all of these matters properly, working within state and federal regulations and avoiding lawsuits.

“This is one place where we are all on a similar page, and we’ll explore what we can do to curb this from happening,” he said. “A lot of developers are coming in here and building homes out to the max. That puts us one storm away from this being a very different place. But the storm we are facing now isn’t a hurricane; it’s interest and money from people who don’t have a real good feel for what is going on here.”

ISSUU.COM/THEGABBER

SAFE INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING AND BEER GARDEN 3007 BEACH BLVD • GULFPORT (727) 954-4109 • GULFPORT-BREWING.COM

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

7

Birds of a Feather

One of the National Audubon Society’s Newest Chapters is at Eckerd College

By Amanda Hagood

CONNOR O’BRIEN

Ornithological Society members enjoy a trip to one of the their favorite birding spots, Fort De Soto, in October 2021.

When Connor O’Brien arrived at Eckerd College in September of 2020, he was a lone birder without a flock. Now the sophomore is the co-president of one of the National Audubon Society’s newest chapters, the Ornithological Society of Eckerd College, founded in January 2021.

“I tried to start a birding club in high school, in downtown Seattle,” O’Brien tells me, as we’re perched by a brackish lagoon on campus.

“But that didn’t get a lot of interest.” The idea finally took off after he bumped into another new student and avid birdwatcher, Trevor

8

Clair, while searching for an alligator who had taken up residence on campus over the previous summer. “He had binoculars,” recalls O’Brien. “So, I kind of knew.”

For his part, Clair, the club’s other co-president, had been birding for years with a club in his hometown of Burlington, New Jersey. But he was impressed with the variety of species at Eckerd’s 188-acre waterfront campus. “On a walk around this pond alone,” he says, nodding over his shoulder, “we might see 30 species.”

And when you consider field trips?

Vast possibilities. Birders can spot

roughly 570 of the more than 1,100 bird species in North America in Florida.

The club regularly leads trips to Florida birding hot spots, some close by – Fort De Soto is a perennial favorite – and some as far as Lake Apopka.

“Accessibility is what we are all about, trying to create trips that are free or low-cost,” notes O’Brien.

“There can be a lot of barriers to accessing birds,” especially for students with no equipment, no vehicles, or few spare funds.

“We get new people on every trip,” adds KT Thanner, the group’s treasurer, also a sophomore. A Maryland native, she was a relative novice when she joined the group last year.

“I didn’t even know what a swamp sparrow was,” she confesses. But now, like O’Brien and Clair, she has an active and growing life list.

College students might seem a bit of a rare bird among birdwatchers.

“Whenever we go out,” Thanner says, “we will run into people in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and they’ll say ‘oh, you must be the group from Eckerd’!”

A 2016 study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, however, found that as much as 13% of the U.S. population ages 16-24 engages in some form of birding (as compared to 24% of Americans aged 55+). And with the North American Bird Conservation Initiative estimating that one-third of American bird species need urgent conservation action, getting a new generation of Homo sapiens engaged is critical.

“Once you get into this hobby,” Clair says, “you tend to notice nature a lot more.”

“That’s the reason we created this club!” Thanner adds.

“Everyone,” O’Brien adds, “has a chance to do good for the world in their own small ways.”

Thoroughly impressed, I ask if there’s anything more I should know. O’Brien cocks his head toward a nearby tree. “There’s two blue jays behind you.”

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Jeremiah continued from cover ning of greater things.”

Daniels, like other high schoolers of the past two years, attended school partially virtually during the pandemic.

“I did virtual school the first quarter of last year. It was pretty rough, but the hardest part was the lack of social interaction,” Daniels said. “I’ve grown into a social person.”

Luckily for him, the more difficult online work wasn’t debilitating for a tech-orientated young person.

“I like the simplicity of math; I don’t have to read into it. Working with numbers, you don’t have to make inferences, you just have to understand how the numbers work,” Daniels said. “Computer science is a booming industry and working with technology suits me.”

Daniels is president of the National Honor Society at Boca Ciega, served as sophomore class president, played baseball for his school, tutored another student for free, and works part time at Panera Bread.

Brittney says the family has been adjusting to the thought of him moving four hours away to Tallahassee.

“We’ve talked about it; he’s trying to prepare us by working,” she said. “He’s teaching his younger brother to take over some of the stuff he does around the house, but I’m going to miss him so much.”

THURSDAY MAY 19TH • 6:30 PM CATHERINE HICKMAN THEATER 5501 27TH AVE S • GULFPORT

What will you miss the most about high school?

Probably friends. We’ll most likely all go our separate ways, most people do.

JAY MIAH

OMAKA ZHEN

VENTRILOQUIST PERFORMANCE

VOCAL PERFORMANCE

SPOKEN WORD PERFORMANCE

APPEARED ON TV SHOWS ALTER EGO, THE VOICE & AMERICA’S GOT TALENT

TICKETS

tix@unityofgulfport.com

What will you miss the least?

Waking up at 6 a.m. I’m a morning person but not an early morning person.

What are you most looking forward to about going away to college?

The freedom, and beginning to grow into an adult.

LESLEY SMITH

GENERAL SEATING $20 AT THE DOOR $25 RESERVED SEATING $40 VIP TICKET HOLDERS WILL BE SEATED AT THE FRONT OF THE HOUSE AND EXPERIENCE A MEET & GREET PHOTO ON STAGE AFTER THE SHOW.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

9

A Night Under the Stars

Lealman Innovation Academy Celebrates First-Ever Prom

ABBY BAKER

ABBY BAKER

Mar Kayla Cook made history as the first student to enter Lealman Innovation Academy’s prom.

Rebecca Satterfield in pink sequins.

Jesse Row in a tux.

Students at Lealman Innovation Academy enter their high school experience expecting to never attend a prom. On Friday, April 28 they walked into the school’s gym in sequins, suits and smiles for the academy’s first prom since it’s existence.

“I wore waterproof mascara for this,” said Cassie Pettruzelli, Lealman teacher.

It was an emotional night. Despite the threat of rain, students at Lealman celebrated with pictures, dancing, and the theme ‘A Night Under the Stars’.

The St. Petersburg high school is an alternative educational environment that focuses on anti-drop out, says Cheryl Parker Smith, Lealman’s MTSS coach.

In 2021, students asked for something they’ve never had: a prom.

They were adamant, so Lealman Principal Connisheia Garcia asked them to prove it in the grades.

After boosting their performance and attendance rates in 2021, Principal Garcia granted the request.

Students almost didn’t believe it at first.

Leonard Family Insurance Agency Home • Condo • Auto • Flood • Commercial

We shop many companies to guarantee you the best price.

Call Khrista Leonard today!

Khrista@leonardfamilyinsurance.com 6160 Central Ave, Suite 101 • St. Pete, 33707

727-329-8995 • FAX 727-498-8602 10

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

“We didn’t sell any tickets until basically the last week cause these kids didn’t think we’d actually have a prom,” Parker Smith laughed.

“We’re here to change the students’ perceptions of themselves.

They deserve the same experiences as anybody else.”

Lealman promoted the event, held a prom dress giveaway, and prepped the culinary students to cook the dinner for prom, but it was Party City that supplied the decorations.

“As long as I’ve been with the company, we’ve never done anything like this in this area,” said Party City communications coordinator Cassie Martin. “This year, we wanted to have a surprise for these students.”

The balloons and arches may have been the product of Party City, but the school’s staff was responsible for putting on the fun.

“A lot of kids were stuck at home during the pandemic and missed a lot of high school activities,” said reading coach Katie Barkley. “I’m so glad they had something to look forward to.”

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Putin’s War (Ruthless, Naked, War of Aggression) Letters From Your Neighbor

By Ian O’Hara

Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, launched an unjust, unprovoked, and illegal war against neighboring Ukraine. The Russian ruble is now worthless externally. President Volodymyr Zelensky took the NATO offer off the table which means under previous statements of Putin, this illegal war of aggression should stop. So, my next question would be, is Putin a rational actor? 15,000 arrested in Moscow alone for demonstrations. Is this a Russian populus war, or is this Putin’s war?

Lind Thomas Greenfield, U.S. ambassador to the UN, stated that “81 UN nations condemned Russia’s actions against Ukraine.”

Under Vladimir Putin’s letters last year, he made these conditions: “Unite the Slavic people.

Close the door to NATO action on my borders. Rewrite the postWWII script. Unify the patriarchy under one Russian Orthodoxy.”

In my previous column I stated, “America’s number one concern is to avoid a hot war with a Nuclear adversary.” I still believe this to be true. This could be a reset to America politics.

Putin’s Russian military strategy is called strategic ambiguity.

He makes many statements that

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2022!

he could use cyberattack, nuclear attack, misinformation, or disinformation as his war against the West.

An example of disinformation is Putin’s statement, “40% of the population of Ukraine is ethnically Russian, most living in two regions, and they need to be liberated.” Another example of misinformation: This is his “de-Nazification of Ukraine.”

So, if these statements are true, the expectation is that all three are on the table for President Vladimir Putin. Bank accounts have been frozen, credit accounts, credit cards, and credit loans and actions are all frozen; Russia’s national credit rate is junk or near junk.

In my previous column, I asked the question, “Defend democracy? What democracy?” Well, after learning quite a bit about Ukraine, I realized I was incorrect.

It is a real democracy. Ukraine has its own language, its own literature, multiple national movements throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and has had free elections since 2014, and the clear demarcation of Stalin’s ethnic cleansing process.

SWIFT, the UN unit by which banks communicate to banks, has stopped supporting Russian banks.

Can Putin survive the economic assault? Could there be a Julius

Caeser effect?

“The Greater the power the more dangerous the abuse”- Edmond Burke Sincerely, Your neighbor, Ian O’Hara

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.

5702 GULFPORT BLVD S, SUITE 6

(727) 560-3485

INFINITYMASSAGETHERAPY.COM

LMT MA #93920 & LMT MA #93705

CELEBRATE WITH A REJUVENATING MASSAGE.

PVC FENCE PANELS CLEANED FROM $11 A PANEL

free quote & DEMO (727) 360-7070

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

11

Saving Old Gulfport

This Florida Girl Can’t Save It All, But She Can Protect the Lot Next Door Can Gulfport survive with one less McMansion? Melissa Raulston thinks so.

When she and her husband bought their home last fall, they set their sights on a vacant lot next door that was at the time being purchased by a large home-building company.

When their corporate competitor withdrew because of certain City stipulations, they swooped in and bought it.

“We closed the same day,” said Raulston, adding that they had made well-known their desire to have first crack at the property once the previous party was out of the picture.

Anyone who walks by the property today will see a narrow portion of the lot earmarked for entertainment and community interaction.

The couple plans to build a regulation-size bocce court on the site.

“We are laying the bricks ourselves,” said Raulston, who hopes to have the project completed in a couple of months. “We want to let everybody play and have a place for the community to gather on a Sunday.”

She has lived all over Florida during her lifetime, but after meeting her now-husband in 2016, they moved to New York City and started a construction business. After

MONROE ROARK

By Monroe Roark

Melissa Raulston and her husband bought the lot next door so it wouldn’t become a “McMansion.” They’re building a neighborhood bocce court and say they don’t want to see the property developed – ever.

her father’s death last summer she told her husband she needed to be back near her mother, who now lives in downtown St. Petersburg.

A short time later they bought their little home, built in 1926 (old enough that there’s a “whites only” covenant on the original deed), and she now works there while her husband commutes to NYC two weeks out of every five.

“My husband, who has never lived outside the metro NYC area, immediately recognized the charm of Gulfport,” she said. “He, like me,

loves everything about it — though he does not have a point of reference when I tell him this is one of the last surviving bits of ‘old Florida’ charm left in the area.”

Her memories of “old Florida” are vivid.

Being able to drive down Gulf Boulevard in Clearwater Beach and see the water. Living on Sunset Beach and affording rent on a waitress’s salary. Seeing her former home in Safety Harbor and remembering the neighborhood as it once was, without the so-called McMansions that

The BEST single action an individual can take for the planet

STOP EATING BEEF If cows were a country they 1 would be #5 in greenhouse gas emissions.

It takes 20 lbs of vegetable 2 protein to yield 1 lb of beef.

Chicken is 6-1.

3 12

Half of tropical deforestation is in service to feeding cows.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

seem to appear on every vacant lot.

They are nice and new, but bear no resemblance to the rest of the community.

Ironically, it was the refusal of the company slated to build on the next-door lot to conform to basic City standards that led to this opportunity, Raulston told The Gabber.

When informed by City officials of what would be required before construction, such as the demolition of an existing structure on the property line — and the permits and variance required — the firm decided to pass.

As for Raulston, she has far fewer such stipulations with which to contend. Since they are only stacking bricks and not using any mortar, they are not required to go through any permitting process or deal with setback requirements.

The purpose of this lot is simple: community. How serious are they about it?

“We have a mortgage on the house but we paid cash for this lot,” said Raulston. “I don’t want it to ever be built on.”

The idea of preserving this little corner of outdoor space is wonderful for the self-proclaimed Florida girl who loves to sit on her patio all day and watch the lizards and other Gulfport wildlife.

Seeing what has happened in other places like Key West, which became a “destination” and, as a result, saw many of its long-time residents chased away by a too-high cost of living, she struggles when she thinks about Gulfport residents of 50 years or more who have just recently been pushed out under similar circumstances.

“It’s just frustrating,” she said. “What can you do? People buy the houses that are built. I get that it’s your own property and you have a right to do what you want with it, but there’s got to be some guardrails — especially to protect our more vulnerable citizens.”

So this couple will do its part to keep neighbors together on weekend afternoons for a few hours at a time.

“Our whole thing is to be able to partake of that community energy I’ve always loved about Gulfport.”

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.

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

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

BILINGUAL STAFF • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

13

Biz Beat: Rescue Books, Hot Sauce + Dolphin Beer Here’s the Scoop on Business in Gulfport and St. Pete

By Abby Baker

Last January, George and Sarah Brooks sold 800 books out of their St. Petersburg driveway.

Then they began traveling to events and businesses in Pinellas, but this April, they opened a Seminole Warehouse (10440 66th St. N. Unit 6, Pinellas Park) to house the mother lode of reading materials.

They call it Book Rescuers.

“We’re still doing the mobile thing; we really have a passion for bringing books to the community at an affordable price,” George said. “We’ve never really sold enough to hit our nut, so we worked real hard to get the warehouse shoppable.”

The Brooks’ get their stash from donations, estate sales, schools, and from sites set to shred their books due to a lack of buyers.

This makes it possible for Book Rescuers to sell items for cheap.

Most of the books they sell are between $1-3, with the most expensive vintage readings capping at $8.

“Me and my wife being the bibliophiles that we are, this broke our hearts,” George said. “So that’s what we do, we rescue the books.”

The Seminole bookseller also sponsors teachers, and will soon begin to launch an “Adopt-a-Teacher” where a percentage of event sales will go to a selected teacher’s classroom supply list.

“We want to alleviate some financial burdens for our teachers,” George said.

The Book Rescuers warehouse is open Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and some Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

GULFPORT BREWERY + EATERY

Second-Hand Knowledge

Gulfport Brewery + Eatery will soon offer a new golden ale.

Red-Hot Buy After a flurry of gossip, Robynne Swanson wants to set the record straight: Red Hot Tiki Spicy Gourmet Market is not going out of business.

The Gulfport business owner does want to retire, and she’s planning to sell the rights and inventory of her downtown hot sauce shop for $98,500.

“I’m still working/growing the biz folks, so please don’t come talk to me about it,” Swanson wrote on Facebook. “In the meantime, I’m selling sauce!”

Swanson’s owned Red Hot Tiki since 2014, which opened in 2011.

She doesn’t own the building at 2904 Beach Blvd. S.; Culby Properties LLC does.

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

lpence@jrstoner.com • thestonerorganization.com

According to Swanson, her inventory alone is worth $32,000, and is included in the asking price.

Rent at this location costs $1,060 monthly.

Swanson told The Gabber that interested buyers should go through her broker, Nick Vukcevic. His contact number is 727-946-1441.

Golden for the Ocean Gulfport Brewery + Eatery’s newest brew, a golden ale, will soon be available by can, and sales will benefit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

“We are excited to announce a new partnership with our friends at Clearwater Marine Aquarium,” Gulfport Brewery wrote on Facebook on April 27.

The beer-and-bites joint (3007 Beach Blvd. S.) is known for its elaborate list of local brews. While details are still in the works, beer lovers can expect a golden ale with a purpose.

“Our award-winning golden ale is finally hitting cans and every pint will be helping with marine conservation,” the brewery posted.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

gabberlife Gulfport’s Tai Chi Tradition

World Tai Chi Day in Gulfport

RON PITTMAN

Gulfport’s tai chi group celebrated World Tai Chi day on Saturday, April 24.

If you often drive by Clymer Park, chances are you’ve seen the Gulfport tai chi group practicing its moves under the park’s gazebo.

On Saturday, April 24 these

RON PITTMAN

By Abby Baker

The tai chi group meets weekly.

dedicated athletes celebrated World Tai Chi day with a typical practice.

“Although its origins are from China thousands of years ago, we practice here in Gulfport Tues-

days and Thursdays at the Gulfport Casino at 10 a.m.,” Pittman told The Gabber.

They also practice every Saturday at 8 a.m. in Clymer Park.

“Everyone is invited,” Pittman said.

K.F.M., KFMM.D. MD • 727-300-0933 info@kfmmd.com

Submit your events online at thegabber.com theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

KAREN KARENMONROE, MONROE M.D. 401 33rd St N., #F #F • St. Petersburg 33713 karenformarijuana.com “...we will help you through the entire process.”

No fee if you do not qualify.

15

arts Gear Up

Jamerson School’s Metallic Mascot Made From Bike Parts The kids hadn’t even met Gear Guy before they loved him.

Douglas L. Jamerson Elementary, a St. Petersburg STEM school, unveiled a sculpture made entirely of recycled bicycle parts this April.

Standing at five feet tall and posed in a permanent wave, the sculpture is the brainchild of Gulfport metal artist Eric Folsom, who named the art piece “Gear Guy.” “The kids watched me set it up during school hours, so a few of them have already seen it,” Folsom said at the Thursday, April 28 unveiling. “They were just so excited.

I made it about the size of an elementary school student.”

Students crowded near a tarp prior to the big reveal. When the covering was ripped away and his bicycle wheel chest was spun, everyone erupted into cheers.

“I’ve been looking for three years to get something like this made,” said Jamerson magnet coordinator Deborah Oharde. The school’s courtyard is often the space for student-led drum circles and activities, but lacks a 3D piece of art.

Oharde discovered Folsom’s work back in December at the annual ArtJones Open Studio Tour. The tour brings art lovers into the working studios of Gulfport artists.

When Oharde, a math and art fanatic, entered the artist’s studio and

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Eric Folsom is the man behind the metal.

admired Folsom’s mechanically-inspired work, she knew his handiwork had a home in her school.

“It fit into our math and engineering theme perfectly,” Oharde said. “I’m very happy with how it turned out, and I think the kids are too. Teachers are already planning lessons and activities around it.”

Folsom is known for his upcycled sculpting and metal work around

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

16

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

St. Petersburg and Gulfport. In the case of Gear Guy, he spent weeks piecing together bicycle wheels, gears, and metal parts at his home studio.

“It was kind of like a puzzle, but you don’t know how it’s going to look,” Folsom said. “I spend more time thinking about how I’m going to put it together than actually putting it together.”

Though bike parts aren’t Folsom’s only medium, it’s an art form close to his heart. The artist grew up in Gulfport but spent his early 20s working as a bike messenger in Washington, D.C. He says he made the trip from Gulfport to the nation’s capital many times on his bicycle.

“I would ride my bike and sleep under the stars,” Folsom said.

For now, Gear Guy will live up to his name in the Jamerson courtyard, but Oharde says the children will vote to rename the sculpture.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Your Tampa Bay Bucket List

With Summer Break Fast Approaching, This Book Gives You Things To Do

By Amanda Hagood

AMANDA HAGOOD

Hare’s book suggests a meal at Tampa’s Ulele, followed by a trip the “epic splash pad” in nearby Water Works Park. This has always been a winner for our family.

Summer’s coming. And this summer, unlike the last two, we can actually go out and do things (maybe?)! That’s why it’s a good time to pick up a copy of local journalist Kristen Hare’s newest book, “100 Things to do in Tampa Bay Before You Die” (Reedy Press, 2022).

This glib little guide presents a veritable smorgasbord of leisure activities, from food and drink, to music, sports, and culture, and even includes 14 day trips within easy range of Tampa Bay. Amusements range from free (walk along the new St. Pete Pier) to upscale (eat dessert in an old wine cask at Bern’s Steak House); family-oriented (climb the Sky Trail Ropes Course at MOSI) to adults only (sample local vintages at a Florida winery); and delightfully stationary (high tea at the Chattaway) to exhilaratingly mobile (hop on a water bike and pedal through Tampa’s Channelside district).

Each entry is presented with a brief but colorful description and relevant street and web addresses for navigating your next excursion.

A highlight is the occasional pro-adventurer tips sprinkled through the listings. For instance, after you have enjoyed a relaxing soak at the elegant Safety Harbor Spa, Hare advis-

es, be sure to pause and enjoy some additional Safety Harbor sights: the ancient dignity of the giant Baranoff Oak and the eclectic charm of the Whimzey Land house, with its famous art installation made entirely of … bowling balls(?!).

A major oversight, in this reviewer’s opinion, is the utter lack of beach- and Gulfport-related amusements and wonders, although it does have some beach things to do (Hare mentions watching the

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

sunrise and getting brunch at the Seahorse on Pass-a-Grille, although I think there’s lots more to do than that!). As for Gulfport, Call me provincial, but I think dinner at Pia’s, a paddle through Clam Bayou, or a stroll through our First Friday Art Walk rank among the most splendid experiences the Bay Area has to offer – and that’s before you factor in one-of-a-kind events like our ReadOut Festival of Lesbian Literature, Art in the Yard, or the many others we’re blessed with. Maybe I should write a guidebook.

Even so, “100 Things” is a fun and, at times, funny read whose eclectic nature hints at the surprising diversity of Tampa Bay’s histories, cultures, industries, and ecosystems, all there for the exploring. Where else in the world could you take a sunrise walk on Bayshore Boulevard’s “world’s longest sidewalk,” brunch on delicious homemade Thai food along the Palm River, tour the International Independent Showmen’s Museum, and pick up some fresh stone crab claws for dinner at The Citrus Place – all in one (admittedly very long) day?

At the very least, this book might just encourage you to try doing something outside your comfort zone.

17

Stand up to your sciatic pain!

Are you seeking relief from crippling BACK PAIN or SCIATIC PAIN?

Sciatica is used to describe nerve pain that originates in the lower back, radiates deep into the buttock and travels down the leg. Better known as, a literal ‘PAIN IN THE BUTT.’ All jokes aside, we understand how painful and debilitating sciatic pain can be.

The burning sensation is unbearable.

The shooting pain makes staying active almost impossible.

Long car rides are out of the question and standing for extended periods of time, forget it.

You spend your entire day trying to get comfortable only to find that it’s nearly impossible.

You've tried the stretches. You've tried ice and heat. You've even tried massage, physical therapy and exercises with little to no relief!

At AAIM|Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, we offer a PROVEN SOLUTION to TREAT your sciatic pain and back pain!

Stop living in pain and START LIVING AGAIN! Call now to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gibbons. Or visit ACHIEVEACUIM.COM to learn more.

call today!

701 49th St N st. petersburg, fl 18

727-272-3587 theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

food How I Lost Cinco De Mayo

Caddy’s Throws a Jalapeño Eating Contest. I Could Only Eat One. When I heard that Caddy’s on Treasure Island would host a jalapeño eating contest on Cinco De Mayo, I was under the impression that the premise of the battle was “who can eat the hottest jalapeño.”

Think “Hot Ones”, but sub out the chemical burn sauces for jalapeños.

Instead, Caddy’s staff set out bowls of green jalapeño chili peppers (the ones they use behind the bar and in the kitchen) and invited the brave to eat as many as they could handle in one minute. The winner would take home $200.

I got there early to eye the competition and order a mojito rum bucket (for bravery.) There were five names on the list, but one contestant was wearing jeans instead of a sandy bathing suit, so I knew he meant business. Clearly, this man didn’t come to lounge on the beach before hearing about the contest.

The denim-clad Luis Quintin came prepared with his eyes set on the cash prize.

“I’ve been doing this all my life,” Quintin said. “I do all the spicy challenges; I’ve tried ghost peppers – everything.”

Staring at the bowl of green peppers, I couldn’t help but think of a tactic that was easy enough: I could just scarf down a few before the red hot flavors set in.

The timer went off and in 15 seconds Quintin had already consumed one, proven by the torn-off stem. I was halfway through chewing my first pepper when the scorching hot pain of a thousand hangnails seeped into my tongue.

No amount of rum bucket sweetness was going to help. I tried to ignore my friends cheering me on and ate the other half. Flames erupted, one single tear dripped down my sunburned cheek.

After the longest minute of my life I had only eaten one, much to the amusement of the bartender in charge of weighing the bowls. It

JORDYN LUX

By Abby Baker

I celebrated Cinco De Mayo by entering a jalapeño eating contest on Treasure Island.

I lost by a landslide.

was no surprise the unscathed and good-natured Quintin dominated the competition, eating four giant peppers total.

He told me he planned to use the money to buy his son, who watched the competition from his stroller, a playpen.

Though many Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 5 with Mexican dishes, a party, and – for some – a jalapeño-eating frenzy, the holiday dates to 1862, when Mexican troops defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla. Fighting continued for five

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

more years, but the holiday – Cinco de Mayo – celebrates the Mexican triumph. Despite American celebrations, the holiday as celebrated in Puebla has more to do with battle speeches and reenactments than margaritas and jalapeños. In the middle of the last century, Mexican immigrants celebrated Cinco de Mayo to show pride in their heritage.

After this Cinco, I learned more about the Mexican holiday’s historical significance, and I’m more wary of Caddy’s bar jalapeños than ever.

19

the gabs If you were a dog what kind of dog would you be?

Photos by Abby Baker

Cristina Caroll, Tampa: “An Italian greyhound, because they’re small and cute.”

Julie McClusky, Gulfport: “An Australian shepherd. She’s my favorite dog that I’ve ever had. She’s a Velcro dog, always by me.”

Kelley Allen, Gulfport: “I would be a pit-sky. A pit bull and husky mix like my dog. She’s so much fun, and she’s cuddly, playful. She swims and she paddleboards with me.”

Lauren Dufault, New York: “I wouldn’t be. I’d be a cat. A Chartreux; that’s a French cat. Cats know their boundaries and their silly and derpy, there’s so many types of personalities.”

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

20

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

crossword

Solution on page 27

Musical Travel Modes

a little good news

Solution on page 27

DENISE GLASS

sudoku

This May 13, Doris Glass will blow out candles to commemorate her 100th birthday.

Before she was Doris Glass, Doris Miller grew up on a farm in upstate New York. In 1946, she married her childhood friend Everett “Buddy” Glass. They moved to Gulfport in 1982. “She is considered to be a treasure by her friends and neighbors … The woman positively sparkles!” said granddaughter Denise Glass.

If you see her out, be sure to wish this centenarian a happy birthday.

Do you have good news you want to share? Send your honor roll students, milestones, engagement and wedding announcements, and other good news to news@ thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

21

ST. PETE BEACH

Chill Restaurant and Bar 357 Corey Ave. Friday, May 13: Motel Funk, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 14: ​​Magic, 6:30 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ka’Tiki Beach Bar and Grille

8803 W. Gulf Blvd.

Friday, May 13: The Spazmatics, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 14: The Gearz, 1 p.m.; Sarasota Slim Band, 7 p.m.

MADEIRA BEACH

Lucky Lizard Taphouse 14953 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, May 13: Larry Mott, 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 14: Lowie 2 p.m.; Chris Dupree, 7 p.m.

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

22

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

things to do

Free

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Poetry Readings, Sea Turtles + St. Pete’s Shark Tank Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

Thursday, May 12 It’s Poetry at The Dalí night this Thursday. This ongoing poetry reading series features St. Petersburg’s Poet Laureate, Helen Pruitt Wallace.

She’s accompanied by several other local poets and their words. Stick around for a Q&A with the writers, including Wallace. The Dalí Museum, 1 Dalí Blvd, St Pete. 6 p.m. thedali.org Friday, May 13 Israel at Your Doorstep Enjoy a Erev Shabbat service at Temple Beth-El. The St. Pete temple will host a couple Shlichim guests from the “Israel at Your Doorstep” project. Hear from emissaries as they provide a living connection to Israel and discuss Israeli heritage, Jewish social activism, and speak on faith and culture in the community. Temple Beth-El, 400 Pasadena Ave. S., St. Petersburg.

7:30-9 p.m. 727-347-6136 Watch Out for Wanda Wanda Sykes brings her one-woman comedy act to St. Petersburg’s Mahaffey Theater. Enjoy a night of the comic, writer, actor, and producer’s words from the stage. Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S., St. Pete. 7:30 p.m. $45-60.

727-300-2000.

deira Beach. 10 a.m. timbchamber. org Rock Around the Clock Treasure Island is throwing the local’s favorite block party downtown, around the city clock tower. The Black Honkeys and Chris Maning will play all night, and walking distance restaurants have agreed to stay open for the fun. Treasure Island City Hall Auditorium, 120 108th Ave., Treasure Island. 6 p.m.

Sunday, May 15 Patch Poets Enjoy a lazy literary Afternoon at the Blueberry Patch with Gulfport poet Jude Bagatti.

Bagatti will take over the patch stage and present her photography-inspired poetry and her poetry inspired photography. Hosted

by The Ink Tank, but you can give a donation at the door. Blueberry Patch, 4923 20th Ave. S. 3-6 p.m. $5. Blueberrypatch.org

THE NORTH END TAPHOUSE HAS A DELI-STYLE MENU WITH LOCALLY BREWED BEERS AND MORE.

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

Saturday, May 14 Sea Turtle Season means more than just turning off the lights on the beach. This Madeira Beach Sea Turtle Nesting Season Expo explains how anybody can help the turtles, at a seminar and Q&A section. This expo is put together by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the Trash Pirates of Madeira, Keep Pinellas Beautiful, and other community partners. Madeira Beach City Hall, 300 Municipal Drive, Ma-

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

May 12 Gage Mooney ............. 7-10 May 13 Brek Milo ......................... 7-10 May 14 Leify Green .......................3-6 Tommy and Mimi .... 7-10 May 15 Kyle Shaw...........................3-6 Bandingo......................... 8-10 May 16 Team Trivia .............. 8:30-10 May 17 Open Mic .......................... 7-10

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL

May 18 Hot Tonic .............................6-9

23

Things To Do continued from page 23 Smooth Criminal Upgrade your smoothies with more than just protein powder. Replenish Thyself in St. Pete is holding a smoothie-making class using GLOW Sea Moss. Practice techniques, discuss health benefits and just generally up your smoothie game. Class includes three different recipes. Replenish Thyself, 4357 1st Ave. N., St. Pete. 4:15 p.m. $10. jessica@replenishthyself.com Monday, May 16 May Democrats Hear from your local leaders, and meet fellow Democrats outside on Gulfport’s beach as part of this month’s Gulfport Democrats Club. This week’s guest is Ray Tampa, President of the St. Petersburg NAACP. Ray spent 33 years as an educator and is known for his weekly political columns in The Bulletin News. Meet Tampa, talk politics (big and small), and more. Gulfport Beach, 5598 Shore Blvd. 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 17 Morning Walks Rabbi Jenn Mangold is leading morning walkers through Sawgrass Lake Park on the third Tuesday of each month. This Thursday, start your morning at Sawgrass Lake Park. Sawgrass Lake Park, 7400 25th St. N., St. Pete. 9 a.m. templebeth-el. com/tbewalks; 727-347-6136.

Pitch Perfect Pitch Night is St. Pete’s version of shark tank, hosted by St. Pete Greenhouse. Local startups are given the opportunity to approach a judges panel and win $5,000 for their idea. Plus, the audience picks a $500 winner of their own. 3 Daughters Brewing, 222 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 5:30 p.m. stpetegreenhouse.com Sounding Off Join the vibrational sound wave. For a donation of $1133 (your choice) join other spiritual beings as they play sound bowls to relieve pain, strengthen immunity, and focus. Bring a blanket, pillow, eye mask, or anything you need to

Gulfport

Floridania Fest

Fla.

Wednesday, May 18 Bike Ride of Silence Take an evening ride with a purpose. The St. Pete Bicycle Club hosts a Ride of Silence to remember the many cyclists injured or killed in vehicle crashes in Florida.

This is an easygoing 10-mile bike ride.

North Shore Park, 901 North Shore Dr. NE., St. Pete. 7 p.m. meetup.com Meet the Authors Get into the mind of Tampa Bay author David Sanchez as he discusses his new Florida-based novel, “All Day is a Long Time” at Coastal Creative. His debut book is a discovery of self and Florida’s drug issues as related to his flawed characters. Who better to interview Sanchez than award-winning Florida author Kristen Arnett? Arnett is known for her biting queer novels set in her home of Central Florida. Coastal Creative, 2201 1st Ave. S. St., St. Pete. 7 p.m. $5. coastalcreativetv.com

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?

Saturday, May 21 10 am - 4 pm Gulfport Casino 5500 Shore Blvd. South

Admission: $5

feel comfortable. The Centre SPB, 7525 Blind Pass Road. 6:30 p.m. $1133. thecentrespb.com

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.

(last admission 3:30 pm)

Florida ephemera, postcards, souvenirs, books, art and decor … anything vintage Florida!

24

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 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

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing “St. Alban's is an inviting faith community striving to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

So, no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.”

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

(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

Paradise Lutheran Church

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

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 Affiliated with

St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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

Sunday Services 10AM Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

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.

Special worship rates starting as low as $25/week.

Stories live on.

We make sharing it affordable.

Tell theirs.

Remember your loved ones forever with us.

Send an email to: advertising@thegabber.com

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

• Free obituaries available; prices range from $10-$300 In partnership with Share your loved one’ s story.

• Obituary on Legacy included obituaries@thegabber.com | 727-321-6965 25

obituaries

EMMONS FAMILY

Tami Marie Emmons (1958-2022) Tami Marie Emmons passed away April 26, 2022 after a lengthy illness. She was born in Nashville, Tennessee and later moved to St. Petersburg with her mother and brother. Tami was preceded in death by her father, Buddy Gene Emmons. Tami is survived by her mother, Georgene (Gi Gi) Emmons, her brother Buddie Gene Emmons (Patti). Her niece, Crystal Virginia Howsare (her son Tommy Lee Hoffman) and nephew, Buddie Gene Emmons III (Celena). Tami enjoyed the sun, sand, and waves (and an ice cold beer!) In honor of Tami’s wishes, there will not be a funeral or memorial service of any kind. If you wish to leave your thoughts, share a memory, or offer condolences to her family, please visit alifetribute.com.

AFIELD FAMILY

Hollis Walter Afield (January 16, 1929 – April 8, 2022) Hollis Walter Afield, 93, passed away on Friday, April 8, 2022. Hollis was born January 16, 1929 in Clifton, NJ and a resident of St. Petersburg, FL since 1980 after relocating from Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. He retired as an officer of Bankers Trust Co., NYC and was the last Resident Manager of the Soreno Hotel in St. Petersburg when it closed in 1985. The Gulfport Senior Center was his home away from home where he played cards with his friends. His wife of 60 years, Mildred, predeceased him in 2017. He is survived by his daughter, Barbara Afield. In lieu of flowers, help others of your choosing in honor of his name or make a donation to the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation, the building fund, a non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization (gulfportseniorfoundation.org/support-us). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at nationalcremation.com/locations/clearwater for the Afield family.

SavingsThat Make Scents!!

We are excited to announce that Dr. Austin Mason O.D. has now joined his father Dr. John H. Mason P.A. providing the personalized family eye care you have trusted us with since 1984.

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Thank Yo Customers u Your Loyaltfor y!

CONTACT LENS SPECIALIST • CHILDREN & ADULT VISION CARE • QUALITY FASHION EYEWEAR• TREATMENT OF EYE DISEASE • EMERGENCY CARE & LASIK CONSULTATION • GLAUCOMA & CATARACT TESTING MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED INCLUDING MEDICARE, EYEMED, SUPERIOR, UNITED HEALTH CARE, SPECTERA, VSP, AND BCBS

6195 Park Blvd • Pinellas Park DR. AUSTIN MASON O.D.

5712 5TH AVE. N. • MEDICAL PLAZA BUILDING

344-0800 • MASONEYECLINIC.COM 26

727-547-1402

Free Gift With Purchase

Must present Gabber coupon. Not valid withother offers. Expires 6/30/22

$10 Off

A Purchase of $100 or More

Must present Gabber coupon. Not valid withother offers. Expires 6/30/22

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

solution

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

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

27

CLASSIFIEDS

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

RESPITE CARE

End of life Doula can provide emotional or non-medical, physical comfort, or can “hold space” while you take a much needed break. There are many ways I can help. Call Nancy to discuss your needs at 727-5648499. Please leave a message and I will call back immediately.

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

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

HAPPIEST HOUSEKEEPER IN GULFPORT

Summer is here and you should be outside.

I'll take care of the inside. I'll do what you don't want to. Call Laura at 727-557-4247 Computer Service

Gulfport Computer Repair 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

Cleaning / Housekeeping

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

727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

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

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR EC-13008313

727-698-1213 Abccleanexteriors.com

28

24 Hour Service

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! FURNITURE REPAIR & REFINISHING I can do on-site work. Been in business for 38 years. Specialize in repairs for wooden furniture. Call Jim at 727-667-7113 Handy Person 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 SEMI-RETIRED CARPENTER At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Gulfport and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus: 727-644-6194.

LICENSED AND INSURED

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

Licensed and Insured

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

Furniture Repair

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

MAYNARD ELECTRIC

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE! THEGABBER.COM

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

CUSTOM PATIO'S, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, WALKWAYS & REPAIRS

Absolute Concrete solutions, custom patios, walkways, driveway extensions, storage building slabs, custom stairs, wheelchair ramps, all types of concrete repairs.

Over 35 years experience. Call Mark 813859-2023 for a free estimate.

SBK RENOVATIONS,LLC Popcorn removal, slick finishes and retextures, many other services provided upon request. Llc and Ins. Native Floridian, local business supporter. 727-313-8554

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Heating & Air Conditioning

Professional Services

AFFORDABLE ESTATE PLANNING

Jeffery Shibley, Esquire. 45 years experience. A complete plan for married couples $500. House calls only. stpetewills.com.

Call me at 727-800-2726

Help Wanted

Miscellaneous Service

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

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!

PROMOTE ANTI RACISM ST. PETE

PARSP offers free antiracism yard signs, has a free library of books on race and racism for all ages with many pop-ups around St. Pete each month, and can direct you to local BIPOC-led organizations. More info at PARSP.ORG

Lawn & Landscape

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

GUTTER CLEANING & HOME CARE SERVICES

Professionally trained in landscaping services: Gutter Cleaning, Palm Trimming, Pressure Washing, Mulching, Weeding, etc. FREE estimates on any of the jobs listed above and offer rates below the market standard. Contact me for more information! Carlos: 813-997-5478

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

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

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

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

30 years experience. Painting expert plus wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arney 727-900-3459 SEASONS BEST PAINTING & CONTRACTING, LLC Interior/Exterior Painting And Power Washing Services. Over 25/Years of Experience. 727-506-3677 Licensed/Insured. LIC #C-11623

DOG BATHER/ GROOMER NEEDED

Pet grooming shop needs part-time help Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays. Experience preferred, but willing to train. Pay negotiable based on experience. Email hairofthedoginc@aol.com or call 727-5773500

CARETAKER WANTED

In-home caretaker for a mentally challenged LGBTQ male. Part-time, 3 days per week, 4 hours per day. Choose your days and hours between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. $15/ hr. cash. Includes some cleaning, cooking, and bathing supervising. In Gulfport, call 813-713-5767

OLDER WORKERS NEEDED

Paid office admin/clerical training for older workers through AARP Foundation SCSEP. Must be 55+, low income, Pinellas resident, unemployed & looking for a job.

Basic computer skills and proficiency with email & smartphone functions required.

Call 727-547-0534 for information.

$13/HR+TIPS LAUNDROMAT ATTENDANT SOUTH ST. PETE

Up to 36 hours a week, must have good customer service skills and reliable transportation. Apply in person at 2970 54th Ave. S., call 727-864-9224, or email us at info@easykleenlaundry.com for more information.

ISO PART TIME COMMERCIAL CLEANER

10-15 Hours a week. Start $16 per hour.

Must have clean driving record and a valid driver’s license. Early morning or evening hours with weekends. Please text 727-6562907 or email acleaningservicesfla@gmail. com

Plumbing

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

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

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

29

For Sale

BURIAL PLOTS FOR SALE

Two adjoining burial plots @ Woodland Memorial Garden (101 58th St. S.). Selling under current value. Call 727-480-1742 General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341 Health & Fitness FOR SALE 2019 Quantum Q6 Edge Series Power Wheelchair. Barely used features recline, tilt, elevating seat lift, flip-up footrest. Call Gene 727-545-1996 Lost & Found

FOUND: TEDDY BEAR

Found Saturday, April 16 at intersection of 34th Street and 9th Avenue North.

Looked loved and lonely and misses his or her owner. Call to identify and reunite.

727-321-6965.

Yard / Garage Sale HISTORIC KENWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE SAT. 5/21 Saturday, 5/21, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Over 25 homes participating and selling all kinds of treasures. Map showing all locations available online the Friday before at www.HistoricKenwood. org and for pickup on the day of sale at Bula Kafe, 2500 5th Ave. N. YARD SALE SAT. 5/14 & SUN. 5/15 9 a.m.

- 1 p.m. 5620 29th Ave S., Gulfport. Patio furniture, school lockers, books, clothing, mason jars, potted plants, furniture, mirrors, household items, art work, baskets.

No early birds.

FOR RENT 2BD/2BA WATERFRONT CONDO AT TOWN SHORES

Furnished, covered parking, cable, gas utility included. 55+ community. No pets. Six month minimum lease, $1900/month. Call Jerry: 727-688-7337 ROOM FOR RENT IN PRIVATE HOME Large furnished room with full bath, private entrance, & fenced-in backyard by Eckerd College. Utilities & wi-fi included, access to washer/dryer. Quiet, crime-free neighborhood. No cats, small dogs considered. Contact Susan at 727-501-2619. No texts, please. $700/month + $100 security deposit.

Place your classified line ads online!

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

Real Estate For Rent ONE BDRM/ONE BATH OVER 55 Charming one bedroom, one bath available June 1.

Partially furnished. Small pet allowed. All utilities included except electric and Wi-Fi. Move in ready. Garden gated community across from Maximo marina. Swimming pool, tennis, club house. First floor. Parking.

Call 502-655-1995 Real Estate For Sale

I LIVE and SPECIALIZE in Town Shores...

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

• Open House Sat., May 7 11am-2pm Diplomat • Buyer looking for 1250 sf 1st floor any Town Shores Building Call if you are ready to SELL!

Furnished Rentals 2/BD 1/BA WATERFRONT UPPER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Available April 26, 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. $3,900/ 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. $2,200/month. Contact JenM@hjmholdings.com

30

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

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

Real Estate Snapshots

Here’s What Sold in Gulfport Last Week Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week 6318 Pasadena Point Blvd. (Pasadena Yacht & Country Club) This 6,338-square-foot home, built in 2001, has five bedrooms and five-and-a-half bathrooms. It listed for $3,100,000 and sold for $2,700,000.

BARRY LOPER

5940 Pelican Bay Plaza S. #702 (Pasadena Yacht & Country Club) This 1,912-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1983, listed for $700,000 and sold for $690,000.

2827 45th St. S. (Marina) This 1,661-square-foot home, built in 1959, has three bedrooms and two-and-a half-baths. Although listed for $599,000, it sold for $639,000.

5310 21st Ave. S. (Tangerine) This 2,096-square-foot, four-bedroom, threeand-a-half-bath home, built in 2022, listed for $760,000 and sold for $755,000.

2714 53rd St. S. (Waterfront District) This 1,587-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1955, listed for $649,900 and sold for $615,000 – after one day on the market.

5620 30th Ave. S. (Waterfront District) This 948-square-foot, two-bedroom, one-and-two-halfbath home, built in 1934, listed for $435,000 and sold for $524,680.

Every day our office phones ring with the same questions???

Is this a good time to sell?

Have you renewed your car warranty?

Are rentals a good investment?

Should we wait to buy a home?

While there are no easy answers...

Your first question to your future REALTOR® should be about their experience and knowledge of the local market.

2902 Beach Blvd S.

www.GulfportRealty.com

(727) 289-5500

We know houses and we know GULFPORT! theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022

31

32

theGabber.com | May 12, 2022 - May 18, 2022