The Gabber: January 7, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2690

January 7 - January 13, 2021

This Little Piggy Needs a Home On Wednesday, December 16, a good Samaritan called Pet Pal Animal Shelter in St. Petersburg regarding a three-week-old baby pig found alone.

According to Gracie Grieshop, marketing associate for Pet Pal Animal Shelter and pet foster mom, the piglet, now named Lucille, had likely been outside and alone for several days.

“She had a lot of parasites; she’d obviously been out by herself,” Grieshop said. “She had some wounds, which looked like something tried to get her.”

According to Grieshop, however, this wasn’t a case of human neglect.

“We know she’s a wild pig,” Grieshop said. “We don’t think she’s a potbelly or a mini pig. She’s just a little piglet that was lost from her momma.”

Lucille caught a stroke of luck when Pet Pal took her in.

“Her first night she got her first bubble bath and was pretty infested with parasites that I combed out and rinsed away down the drain,” Grisehop said. “She nestled herself in the bathroom with a fuzzy blanket and stuffed dog toy – she felt at home.”

Along with modern comforts of Lost Piglet continued on page 8

GRACIE GRISEHOP

By Laura Mulrooney

Lucille is leash trained and loves going on walks, according to Gracie Grieshop, marketing associate for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. “She’s incredibly smart and loves to be loved,” Grieshop said.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

voices Hope Is in the Air Dear Editor: Thank you, Gulfport! Such an over-the-top display of fireworks eased the aches of the past year and helped us look toward the New Year. While all good things take time and miracles are hard to come along, hope is in the air. The array of splendid colors and aura of excitement is greatly appreciated.

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They Only Had 10 Months Dear Editor: Pinellas County opened an online (and phone) registration for corona vaccines yesterday. Of course it crashed immediately. But honestly, we did not expect any smooth sailing from the state or the county based on the demonstrated lack of leadership on this whole corona epidemic from any government source. And after all, they had only had 10 months to work on it.

I was wondering if any of the people in charge at the county thought about contacting companies like Amazon, Orbitz, Expedia, Bank of America, airlines, colleges or NYSE for some help or insight into setting up and managing real time websites for user registrations? All of these companies and agencies deal with massive website traffic daily.

I’m guessing they could have just had Ticketmaster set it up and we would all be registered now. – Vic Miller

The Gabber encourages letters and commentary. Be brief and sign your real name. Email letters to news@thegabber.com or mail them to us at 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. Any email sent to the Gabber may be used in print. If you do not want your letter published online or in print, you must let us know in the letter. Commentary posted on our social media channels may also appear in the paper. Opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers, staff or advertisers.

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TO HELP US CHOOSE GULFPORT’S NEXT COUNCILMEMBERS. Apply now for the Gulfport Citizen Election Board – email your full name and address to elections@thegabber.com.

Please note: The Ward Two seat has already been filled.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

news After Seven Months, Local BLM Protest Is Still Going

By Laura Mulrooney

SUSAN CANTY

In June, as the country reeled from social justice protests, the Gabber covered local Black Lives Matter demonstrations around Gulfport. At least one group is still going strong.

Every Tuesday and Friday evening since, from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m., a group, primarily made up of seniors and organized by Gulfport resident Phyillis Plotnik, has gathered at the corner of Gulfport Boulevard and 49th Street South.

“In early June, I felt that Gulfport would be a wonderful community to show support for the Black Lives Matter/racial justice movement,” said Plotnik. “I asked a friend to join me and we each asked a few friends to meet us with masks, signage and adherence to social distancing at the intersection of 22nd Avenue South and 49th Street South.”

At times there have been as few as six people and as many as 22.

The group holds signs saying, “Black Lives Matter,” “No Justice, No Peace,” and “All Lives Can’t Matter Until Black Lives Matter.”

The protests are silent. Participants hold signs and wave, when approached by those who would oppose them, they stay silent in an effort to not breed more hatred.

“I’ve been so happy to just be a part of a peaceful protest,” said participant Susan Canty. “We don’t talk back; we just hold our signs and smile.”

It’s not always an easy task.

“Once I had a man ask me why I wasn’t home baking cookies for my children instead of being out on the corner causing trouble, I stayed quiet,” said Canty. “When he left, I turned to my friend and said, ‘I baked my children cookies last night.”

According to many of the protestors, the majority of the feedback has been positive.

“I think there’s an appreciation by most people who drive by; there’s a lot of positive energy and thank yous,” participant Christie Aird said. “Every once in a while we get a middle finger or angry shouting, but it’s mostly positive.”

“Some people will shout out, ‘All lives matter,’ when they drive by,” participant Liz Snow said. “Of course all lives matter, but the point is that not all lives matter if they’re not treated equally. We need to bring things into balance, when all lives are treated the same that’s when we can say ‘all lives matter.’”

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

The murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others sparked protests across the country over the summer, but many protest groups have petered out. What keeps the fire fueled for these Gulfport participants?

“We can see that we are making a difference,” said Aird. “As time has gone by, we’ve noticed more positive reactions than negative ones. That shows progress.”

“As we protested through the holidays, we noticed an influx of people excited to see us around,” participant Pat Cohen said. “That’s what has kept us there – we see that there’s change coming.”

“For me, it’s not often demonstrations and reactions to social injustices happen,” Snow said. “As time goes by, sometimes people forget – we have lives and things get in the way – but, we keep showing up to keep these injustices fresh in people’s minds. It isn’t over just because there hasn’t been a recent incident to cause a major uproar.”

Keeping the issue at the forefront of people’s minds is paramount, says Snow.

BLM Protest continued on page 6

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“We need to let people know that this is still happening and we still need to make changes,” Snow said.

“It’s not a lot to give two hours a week to hopefully change something that is wrong in our community.”

“The connection that has developed between the drivers-by and our group has been the most important thing to me,” Plotnik said.

“The simpatico, smiles and sense of oneness bring a feeling of hope, of togetherness, of possibility so needed in our fragile, fractured world. There is something about being there twice a week, every week that sends a message of reliability and commitment.”

What kinds of changes are the participants looking to see?

“Unity,” Canty said. “We need justice and we need to get rid of racism; we need equality and love.

I wish more people would just show love. If everyone would just show love and see what’s in someone’s heart instead of their skin color, I think that would put a stop to most of these horrible things that are happening to our society.”

“I would hope to see less murders

SUSAN CANTY

BLM Protest continued from page 5

Gulfport BLM protest participant Susan Canty holds a sign on the corner of 49th Street South and Gulfport Boulevard.

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– that’s the extreme end goal,” Snow said. “Less abuse and murder, more communication and an expansion of services, like experienced professionals for the mentally ill.”

Snow hopes to see this as a turning point for communities.

“I don’t think people intend for bad things to happen, but we need more education,” said Snow. “What’s happening is not OK and things need to change.”

“I hope there will come a time when we no longer need to protest,” Plotnick said. “I hope there will come a time when Black lives will matter in all ways without exception, when justice will prevail, and when no life will be tragically, senselessly lost or harmed because of racism.”

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By Laura Mulrooney

One-year-old Mila Johnson saw her first fireworks display on December 31, during the City of Gulfport’s New Year’s Eve celebration. “Mila hasn’t had the most exciting first year of life thanks to COVID,” Mila’s mom, Jennifer Johnson, said. “She’s missed every holiday this year, but we’re glad we were able to show her the fireworks tonight.”

With $25,000 worth of explosive material, Gulfport’s Fire Rescue team stood by the entrance of William’s Pier prepared to extinguish any stray sparks.

For the first time ever, the City of Gulfport rang in the New Year by lighting up the sky along the waterfront. Residents gathered for the 20-minute fireworks display.

Gulfport’s IT Department made the explosive event available on the City of Gulfport’s Spectrum Cable channel 640 and streamed it live on Facebook for those who felt

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After postponing the July 4th fireworks, the city faced a loss of $5,000 to cancel the show completely, or an additional charge of $3,750 to postpone the fireworks beyond December 31, 2020.

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GRACIE GRISEHOP

GRACIE GRISEHOP

Lost Piglet continued from cover

Lucille is living with Pet Pal Animal Shelter’s executive director, Scott Daly, who has experience fostering pigs. Lucille is looking for a forever home, and will be available for adoption soon.

warm, cozy blankets and people cuddles, Lucille is also a big fan of Dolly Parton and the Sunset Bridge Band, and quite the socialite.

She is already stepping into the role of “therapy pig,” minus the certifications.

“While walking her around my neighborhood, my neighbors all come out to meet the little pig and the laughter is outstanding,” Grisehop said. “I’ve been answering calls, texts, messages and more in regards to Lucille and have even fulfilled some outside meet ups – such as a good friend

going through chemotherapy who specifically requested that she love on Lucille – all safely done outside, of course.”

Lucille is looking for a forever home, but isn’t quite ready for adoption yet. Lucille’s new family will be vetted by the organization to ensure a proper environment and care will be provided.

“Lucille is a pure joy,” Grieshop said. “She may not always be this cute and little, but right now she is the cutest thing.”

Follow her story @petpalanimalshelter on Facebook and Instagram.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

The Giving Tree

Mark James, a self-proclaimed logger and owner of Bear Creek Timber, removed a downed red cedar tree two blocks away from Boca Ciega High School after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

James spent the last three years drying the uniquely patterned wood and creating beauty out of destruction.

He says it takes a minimum of one year to dry out the wood of a tree per each inch of thickness.

James, who learned woodworking from four years of wood shop at BCHS, turned a hobby into a business after his company – where he worked as an environmental and safety officer for 27 years – outsourced to Asia.

Then the pandemic happened, shutting down local crafter markets and James’ primary source of income; he was no longer able to sell many of his creations.

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Mark James’ table, made from two live edge red cedar slabs and poison apple epoxy resin, was crafted from a tree downed during Hurricane Irma in Gulfport. It took three years for the wood to be ready, James said.

“to provide advocacy, support and education to locally owned, independent businesses throughout the region.”

Founder, owner and operator of LocalShops1, Ester Venouziou, closed the doors to her small brickand-mortar shop in March, and in April uploaded her business to a complete online presence.

Venouziou launched Marketplace on her website, localshops1.com, allowing local vendors, makers and crafters to post and sell their goods online, without fees, thanks to sponsorships.

On LocalShops1 Marketplace, James had an outlet to promote his craft.

“In the absence of the LocalShops1 Marketplace, I would have had no sales,” James said.

In appreciation, James decided he wanted to help others this holiday season.

“I noticed a lot of people were in need,” said James. “I’m not making a lot of money compared to last year, but I thought, ‘What if I put this

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

table up for auction and donate the proceeds to a charity?’”

On December 18, James and Venouziou announced on Facebook that the table James had crafted from the tree downed by Irma was up for auction and 100% of the proceeds would be donated to an organization of the winner’s choosing.

Local business owner and humanitarian John Riesebeck of Smokin’ J’s Real Texas BBQ won the auction.

“I wanted to help a local artist, so I bid. When I found out I could pick the nonprofit the money would be donated to, it made it all the better,” Riesebeck said.

Riesebeck, no stranger to acts of charity himself, presented a check to Jax Taylor on Monday, December 28 for Jax In and Out Neighborhood Cafe’s food pantry.

“Since everything Jax does and stands for is right in line with my goals – helping others when you can – it was an easy decision as to where the money should go,” Riesebeck said.

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Treasure Island Celebrates the New Year Litter Free

By Laura Mulrooney

ADRIAN ANDERSON

Friday, January 1 some 80 volunteers raised their arms in the air in solidarity, declaring the beach litter free after picking up more than 600 pounds of trash along Treasure Island’s 3.82 miles of beachscape.

Drone videographer Adrian Anderson captured the

conclusion of Treasure Island Adopt-a-Beach’s first beach clean up for 2021.

According to Carrie Auerbach, Beach Ambassador for the Treasure Island Adopt-a-Beach, they plan many more cleanups throughout the year. Find more at fb.com/ treasureislandadoptabeach.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

KEN WELCH FOR COUNTY COMMISSION

Will Ken Welch Be St. Petersburg’s Next Mayor?

By Deirdre O’Leary, The Weekly Challenger

Former Pinellas County Commissioner Ken Welch has picked up a key endorsement in advance of his official campaign kickoff: Congressman Charlie Crist. The two men have a longstanding relationship in local government. “There are some good choices in this race. But I’ve known Ken a long time. I think he would be a great mayor, and that’s why I’m endorsing him,� said Crist.

City Councilwoman Lisa Wheeler-Bowman also endorsed Welch, saying, “I’ll do what I can do to help him get elected.�

A Pinellas County Commissioner for 20 years, Welch was first able to get elected following the creation of single-member districts in addition to countywide districts. Typically, it is more difficult for people of color to get elected countywide

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or citywide. Welch assisted in getting the charter review amendment narrowly passed in 1999, expanding the commission to seven members, consisting of four district seats and three countywide seats.

Welch was the first District 7 commissioner; a position just won by Rene Flowers last month. The district covers most of St Petersburg. “I felt a special obligation to serve the district while serving the county as a whole. Having a seat at the table was very important,� said Welch.

When he rose to chair the commission in 2018, he was able to direct more resources to benefit District 7.

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Welch continued from page 11

“For example, the SBA Small Business program, which includes minority-owned businesses, was funded at less than $100,000. Funding increased to $20 million in a year and a half,” he stated. “You need to make a fact-based argument as to why it makes sense.”

Under the Community Redevelopment Area, financial institutions are encouraged to do business in low and moderate-income neighborhoods. However, it was Pinellas County’s policy not to fund a CRA that was not in a downtown district.

“So the Pier and the Mahaffey qualified for funding under ‘slum and blight,’ but south St. Pete didn’t. We were able to flip that in 2012.”

Welch was able to get the first non-downtown CRA approved in 2015. An extensive district, it covers most of south St. Pete, approximately from 49th Street to Fourth Street and from Fifth Avenue down to 29th Avenue.

“It generates $6 million real dollars we can use to impact poverty.”

Other projects initiated by the county in partnership with the sheriff’s office, the city and other service providers during Welch’s tenure included Pinellas Hope and Project Safe Harbor, which direct funding to assist the homeless and provide alternatives to prison.

“We need to have the proper priorities for where we spend funds. We know that most things are not a law enforcement issue; they do not need a law enforcement solution.

Homelessness, for example.

“Progressive Pinellas has been our mantra for decades.

When I was the only Democrat on the commission, it was about moving us forward. We made a lot of progress. But my goal is to make sure that progress is sustainable. We need to deal with the issues that require a straightforward discussion.”

Welch stresses that the community, not just law enforcement, needs to be involved with neighborhood issues.

“My approach is accountability for all: elected folks, law enforcement … also the community.”

He feels the only way to move forward is to have some honest conversations.

Regarding police body cameras, Welch thinks they are essential.

“We talked to the sheriff [Bob Gualtieri], who was against

it at one point. He had patrol cams in the cars. After the George Floyd incident, I talked to him about that, and he soon changed his mind. Nowadays, we all have a video camera in our phones; these incidents will be recorded one way or another. It’s important we have the perspective from the law enforcement officer as well.”

As mayor, Welch would like to fund an “opportunity agenda” for youth.

“The top-down model loses the connection with the most at-risk youth. I want to create some innovative solutions to reach those kids and have reached out to the community who can help with that.”

A big issue for the next mayor will be planning the Tropicana Field site’s redevelopment when the Rays leave in 2028.

Welch thinks it’s off to a good start.

“The city did a really good job on the RFP. They addressed the history of the Trop; also opportunities for jobs, affordable and workforce housing. They set the right parameters. The question will be the execution and implementation.”

His father, David Welch, was on the city council when Tropicana Field was developed. His family just finished building an addition to their church when the city came in to buy the property.

“Why is the Black community always the one to make the sacrifices? It happened with 275; it happened with the Trop. This is a chance to make those promises finally come to fruition.”

So what kind of leader would the first Black mayor of St. Petersburg be?

“Mayor is an executive position; a leadership position in the spotlight. But you still need those basic skills of communication and collaboration. You still have to work with the city council and the community. Inclusion is important. Everyone has to be at the table, even someone you disagree with on issues.

We will not move forward as a community if we don’t get input from everyone.”

Welch will be kicking off his campaign in January. He said it was an honor to serve as county commissioner, and he’s looking forward to offering his services as mayor and leading the city forward in an inclusive way.

This article originally appeared in The Weekly Challenger, December 14, 2020. It has been reprinted here with permission, in partnership with The Weekly Challenger.

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Got Greyhounds?

ABBY BAKER

Kathryn Farrell and a nervous Miles Davis mingle amongst the greyhound community.

It began like many niche groups this year – during the long isolation of shutdowns.

Yet, the Italian Greyhound Community of St. Petersburg found comfort through the loneliest parts of the pandemic, and has now become a staple for some of the owners of this breed. “I got the idea from a Tampa greyhound rescue, and I didn’t want to compete, just responsibly create a meet-up,� founder Aron Bryce said. “It just organically grew from there.�

Since the first few meetings in September of this year, the Facebook group has attracted new members, many owning more than one tiny friend. “I’ve always had Italian Greyhounds, and this has always led to meetups,� group member Kathryn Farrell said. “People are so passionate about these dogs, and it makes sense especially now.�

After getting together in several St. Petersburg dog-friendly areas, including Vinoy Park’s small dog park and North Shore Dog Park, the group chose to meet in Gulfport’s Chase Park Sunday, December 27. Bryce plans to continue to meet, masked and six feet apart, at different dogfriendly spaces in the area.

“That’s the beauty of it: we can organize wherever,� Bryce said. “All the dogs want to do is cuddle and run.�

With up to 20 long-legged pets at any giving meeting, owners have passionate stories and breed quirks to share while letting their fur babies run rampant.

Farrell is no different, and her 10-year-old Italian Greyhound, Dolce, has quite the story to tell. “She was a champion show dog, and when they no longer could use her, they utilized her for breeding,� Farrell said. “She had never even stepped on grass, and the first time I let her sleep on my bed she was like ‘You’ve got to be kidding me.’�

Meetings are often spontaneous, with owners coming out from all around the Tampa Bay area, so folks can keep updated at the Italian Greyhound Community of St. Petersburg Facebook page. Anyone with a pocket sized pal can also attend since the creation of Bryce’s second group, Small Dog Community of St. Petersburg. “The whole point of the group is so that the dogs can get out their energy and socialize – this breed has a need for that.� Bryce said before adjusting the turtleneck on his 1-year-old greyhound, Koda.

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Aron Bryce holds Koda at a small meetup in Gulfport’s Chase Dog Park. Why Italian Greyhounds? “Because they are the best,� Bryce jokes. “No, but, everyone here will give you that exact same answer.�

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Artists ‘Imagine’ at New Year’s First Friday Art Walk

By Laura Mulrooney

LAURA MULROONEY

Vanessa LeVesque paints custom images on rocks and canvas. More on LeVesque at alittleartbyvanessa.com.

On January 1, the Gulfport Merchants Chamber kicked off the new year with a themed First Friday Art Walk – one of four planned for

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the year – challenging participating artists to express what “Imagine” means to them.

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Happy Studios, that word means freedom.

“The root word of imagination is imagine, these pieces represent what I imagine,” Binta said. “I imagine free hearts, free souls, free thinking.

The works I have here are a general observation of what I see around me.

All the beauty I see in the world makes me feel a certain way and these works represent how I feel.”

Originally a landscape acrylic artist, Vanessa LeVesque decided to try her hand at something a little more whimsical. During isolation, LeVesque had a lot of free time on her hands and was looking for positivity in a tumultuous time.

LeVesque turned from traditional landscape paintings on canvas to painting relatable and fun images on rocks.

“I was looking to be in a positive state of mind,” LeVesque said. “I paint relatable and fun images that people can smile at and that brighten their day.”

Retired nurse Pam Masuk taught mental health coping skills to veterans at the Bay Pines V.A. hospital for most of her career. After retirement, she realized she might need some of her own advice.

“I taught vets at the V.A. how to cope with mental health issues through painting and other creative outlets,” said Masuk. “I’m certainly

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

no professional, unlike most of the artists here, but I enjoy creating and most importantly it gives me peace of mind.”

Masuk started painting just a few months ago, inspired by her pup Rusty. Her images caught the eye of friends and family and her coping mechanism became a sensation.

Masuk now paints portraits of her animals and anyone else’s animals, as well as other whimsical, cheery images.

For years Leslie Alpha Bestulic ran other people’s companies. After suffering a stroke, doctors found a hole in her heart – that’s when she realized it was time to create her own world.

“I have 11 grandchildren. I want to be around to see them grow,” Bestulic said. “I started painting again and this little girl came out of me. This little girl is all about being who you’re meant to be by your heart and to keep working on your inspirations that come from your heart.”

Leslie Alpha Bestulic hopes her work “imprints the smile and heart that we all can use as we step into this new year.”

More at meetlg.com.

N’jeri Binta of Soul So Happy Studios stands next to her favorite piece titled, “Alleycat,” during the GMC’s First Friday Art Walk of 2021. More on the artist at njeribinta.com.

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City Of Gulfport 2021 Holiday Sanitation Schedule MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., DAY MONDAY, JANUARY 18, 2021 No change in schedule

PRESIDENTS’ DAY MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2021 No change in schedule

MEMORIAL DAY MONDAY MAY 31, 2021 No change in schedule

INDEPENDENCE DAY SUNDAY, JULY 4, 2021 Monday’s pickup will be on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 Tuesday’s pickup will be on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 No yard waste pickup this week.

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2021 No change in schedule

VETERANS DAY, THURSDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2021 No change in schedule

THANKSGIVING DAY

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2021 Thursday’s pickup will be on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 Friday’s pickup will remain the same No yard waste pickup this week.

CHRISTMAS DAY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 Thursday's pickup will be on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 Friday’s pickup will be on Thursday, December 23, 2021 No yard waste pickup this week.

NEW YEARS DAY

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1, 2022 Thursday’s pickup will be on Wednesday, December 29, 2021 Friday’s pickup will be on Thursday, December 30, 2021 No yard waste pickup this week.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

announcements Join Gulfport’s Community Yard Sale Gulfport’s permit-free, citywide yard sale is back! Gulfport residents, dust off your stuff and clear out the clutter on Saturday, January 16 (rain date, Sunday, January 17). Sign up by January 8 at 3 p.m. and get your Gulfport address on the brochure, which will also be printed in the January 14 issue of the Gabber. The easiest way to register is at mygulfport.us/gulfport-city-wideyard-sale. You can also fill out a form at Gulfport City Hall, 2401 53rd St. S. or at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. Questions? Call Kristin Ossola at 727-893-1118. Want even more exposure for your yard sale? Get an additional half-priced classified ad in the Gabber. Call the office by Friday, January 8 at 5 p.m.: 727-321-6965.

January is National Mentoring Month Do you have 30 minutes a week to make a difference for a child? There are more than 800 students in Pinellas County Schools on a waiting list for mentors. Some people mentor two or three students a week to make sure students receive the help they need. Just 30 minutes a week can make a big difference with social, emotional and educational support.

Mentoring is virtual for the remainder the 2020-2021 school year. Visit pcsb. org/mentor.

Drop Those Dead Batteries If you’ve got old rechargeable batteries, the Gulfport Public Works Department at the 49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S. is now an official collection site.

They accept batteries weighing 11 pounds or less, and cellphones – with or without their batteries. For more, including a complete list of what they accept, call the Public Works Department at 727-893-1089 or visit call2recycle.org.

Gulfport Candidate Debates The Gabber Newspaper and the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce will

host the Gulfport Candidate Debates in the Catherine A. Hickman Theater February 11. Brittney Sherley, vice president of the GMC, and Cathy Salustri Loper, publisher of the Gabber, will co-moderate. Social distancing and mask protocols enforced; two seats will separate people not in the same bubble. Doors open at 5 p.m. for ticket holders; at 5:30 p.m.; remaining seats open to walk-ins. The Gabber and the GMC will stream the event as a Zoom webinar so those who cannot attend can see the debates and submit questions. Submit questions prior to the event at elections@thegabber.com.

If you wish to attend via Zoom, please email elections@thegabber.com and ask to be added to the list; you’ll get a link shortly before the event.

Find COVID Testing Community Health Centers of Pinellas and the Florida Department of Health offer COVID-19 testing at locations throughout the county.

Visit covid19.pinellascounty.org/ testing for sites and hours.

Calling All High School Fisherfolk High school fishing clubs and teams can now apply for the Florida Sport Fish Restoration R3 Fishing Grant through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This grant program helps recruit new anglers to ensure the future of fishing in Florida, and awards up to 30 high

school fishing clubs or teams $500.

Participating clubs and teams also get lessons and activities on fisheries conservation and resource management, plus a chance to win prizes by completing the Pure Fishing Conservation Project. The deadline to apply is January 15 at 5 p.m. Submit applications to R3Fishing@MyFWC. com or mail to FWC’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, Attn: High School Fishing Grant, 620 S. Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32399.

Be a Part of History Do you have some extra time? Looking to get out of the house? The Gulfport Historical Society has some open volunteer opportunities in December.

They need volunteers to docent at the museum, as well as painters to get the Art Center ready for its grand opening. They also need people to donate paint (or gift cards to a local hardware store) – for the gallery walls.

Additionally, they need help with some handyman projects at the Art Center. COVID protocols in place with masks and social distancing. Email info@gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

Little Free Pantry Needs Food The Little Free Pantry located just outside the St. Pete Beach Library, 7470 Gulf Blvd., would appreciate any donations. Visit spblibrary.com for more or call 727-363-9238.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

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Don’t Be a Scam Victim Scammers are getting more creative during the pandemic, preying on folks of all ages, backgrounds and incomes.

The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is here to help, protect and educate consumers on fraud at the gas pump, through telemarketing schemes and sham cause. If you have concerns about charities, consumer issues, or are a victim of fraud, visit floridaconsumerhelp.com or call 1-800-help-fla or 1-800-fl-ayuda en Español.

Senior Center Pantry Needs Donations Got extra food? If you do, the Gulfport Senior Center Pantry needs it. They’re looking for non-perishables like tuna, peanut butter, dry cereal, pasta sauce, soups and canned meats. Any Gulfport resident 50 and older can use the pantry. The Senior Center keeps the pantry open from 1 to 3 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. If you have food to donate, drop it off anytime. If you could use food, bring your photo ID, a utility bill, or bank statement (to prove residence) and your SSI proof of

income. Wondering if you can use the pantry? Call Rachel at 727-893-1231.

Check Out Child Care Kids in kindergarten through age 14 can now register for the 2020-2021 School Year Child Care Program at Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. The program provides transportation from Pasadena Fundamental, Bear Creek, Gulfport and Douglas Jamerson Elementary.

The Recreation Center participates in the Afterschool Nutrition Program, a part of the Child Care Food Program, to provide nutritious snacks to children in after-school programs at no extra charge. Call 727-893-1068 for more.

Saving Water Pays Did you know St. Petersburg residents can get a rebate for rain barrels and rain gardens? The City of St. Petersburg developed the Rainwater Rebate Program to help folks conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff.

Residents may be eligible for up to $100 for installing water-saving features.

Email rainwaterrebates@stpete.org or call 727-893-7341 to learn more.

Drivers Wanted Meals on Wheels needs you…to drive.

The Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center, as part of the Neighborly Dining & Meals on Wheels program, delivers meals to those who need it, provided they’re at least 60 years old. Little problem: They don’t have enough drivers. People who can volunteer to deliver meals should visit neighborly.org.

Get Gulfport on the Go Check out the newest way to connect in Gulfport: an app for iOS and Android. The official City of Gulfport app gives residents a simple way to ask questions or report potholes, signs, trash or debris, code violations and more. Users can submit GPS data and photos, keep track of requests and find direct links to utility bill payment, the city calendar, frequently asked questions, the city employee directory, sanitation department, newsletter sign up and more. Email info@mygulfport.us, call 727-893-1118 or visit mygulfport.us/ cityapp.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

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727-545-1116 or 727-463-0694; saveourstraysinc.com.

Nitro likes to live life in the fast lane! He is a spunky, super-friendly 10-year-old kitty who loves to be close to his humans, and will even ride around on your shoulders.

Check out this handsome fellow who still has lots of love to give.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

19

things to do

DF

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Murals, Markets and Beach Polo

By Abby Baker

Saturday & Sunday January 9-10

Friday, January 8 Treasure Island Morning Market 50 vendors on a Friday morning. Peruse displays of flora and fauna, handmade jewelry, art, knickknacks and fresh produce at the Treasure Island Morning Market. There’s plenty of off-street parking, so don’t worry about hauling off your newfound bounty. 104th Ave. & Park Place, Treasure Island. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

St. Pete Beach Hosts Craft Festival The holidays may be over, but that doesn’t mean the splurge shopping has to stop.

Browse through jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, art and zesty new pieces to add to your closet, sprinkled along Corey Avenue at the 27th Annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival. 595 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. DF

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Find links for these, and many other things to do, at thegabber.com/events.

Molding at the Morean Center Get your hands dirty with something positive this Friday: clay –and lots of it.

Spend two hours molding, wheel throwing and building your own personal creations at the Morean Center for Clay. Bring creative energy, and maybe a towel, but get a new hand-crafted piece to show off and enjoy. Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 7-9 p.m.

Griefshare at Cornerstone Community Church In tragic times, it can help to share loss and pain in a safe environment. Cornerstone Community Church is the host for the GriefShare group, a meeting for people who have been impacted by the death of a loved one. Each participant can register online, but is not required.

Cornerstone Community Church, 6745 38th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. SD MR Saturday, January 9 Walk, Talk, and Check Out the Murals Are you really a St. Petersburg local if you don’t know the backstory of the art that coats downtown? In intimate groups of no more than 10, trek four blocks and back while learning the history of prominent murals in the area. Wear your most trusted walking shoes, bring a water bottle and mask up before being immersed in public art. Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. SD MR

20

Horses on the Beach: Polo Games at the Don CeSar The Pink Palace’s beachfront will see more than just tourists this weekend. For two days, horses and riders run St. Pete Beach at the Don CeSar 2021 Beach Polo Classic for a Game of Thrones-style coastal tournament. Check out the website for game times, details and ticket options. The Don CeSar, 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 12 p.m.-3 p.m. MR SD Sunday, January 10 Get Your Football Fix Need a little escape? After all, it’s a celebration in itself for sports to be back. Swing by Caddy’s to cheer on your team and grab some drinks by the water.

There’s also daily live music and complimentary beach amenities. Caddy’s Treasure Island, 9000 W. Gulf Blvd.,Treasure Island. 1 p.m.-11:30 p.m. MR

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

worship Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

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Sunday Sermon Drive-In Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island invites you to join us 10am every Sunday at our Drive-In services.

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obituaries

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Hoyland, Colleen “Lee,” 72, of Gulfport, FL passed away on November 24 surrounded by family under the care of Hospice. Lee was a devoted and loving wife, stepmother, grandmother/great-grandmother and friend. She was a member at Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Gulfport where she served as a Lay Eucharistic Minister. Lee was a huge Rays baseball fan. Lee is proceeded in death by her parents and her sister Ann. Lee is survived by her husband of 32 years, Michael Hoyland; sister Sharon Deckard; stepdaughter Lisa Hoyland; grandchildren Monica, Andrea, Amber and Matthew; great-grandson Emmanuel; many family and friends and her dog, Kodi. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 7 at 11 a.m. at Most Holy Name Catholic Church followed by graveside service at Bay Pines National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.

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Virtual Learning on the Beach St. Pete Beach Parks and Recreation offers a Virtual Learning Assistance Program at the St. Pete Beach Community Center. The program allows for smaller groups of kids, with a dedicated staff member monitoring their engagement with the PCS online curriculum. This is not a tutoring program, but oversight for children working with MyPCS online curriculum. Looking for more fun for the kids? St. Pete Beach’s licensed after school program has games, sports, homework time, swimming and more. Transportation provided from Azalea Elementary and Gulf Beaches Elementary. Go to spbrec. com or call 727-363-9245.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

arts Bringing the Art of the Past into the Present

MARGO CHRISTIE MARGO CHRISTIE

MARGO CHRISTIE

Gulfport artist Margo Christie says she’s been creating art since early childhood.

Her earliest works were pastel drawings based on French artist Paul Gauguin’s South Seas landscapes. So it is no coincidence that her current art is influenced by another type of French art – “Pique Assiette” – using recycled materials such as stained glass, broken cups, dishes and tiles to create mosaics. In English, pique assiette means “thief of plates” or “scrounger.”

“You could say I scrounge up old stuff to make art,” says Christie. “As an art and collectibles dealer in Denver for eight years, I fell in love with delicately hand-painted porcelain teacup and saucer sets.”

To create her colorful wall art, she starts with a hand-painted teacup at the center. From there, Christie builds it out, adding her own touches to the art form by incorporating seashells, glass gems and custom cuts of stained glass to create a beachy splash of color.

Since moving to Gulfport five years ago, Christie has exhibited her work at First Friday events and the Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market. A mixed media, stained glass hand-painted window she created for the Best Seat in the House Chair-ity Auction (With a View!) scheduled in March 2021, is currently on display at the Gulfport Public Library.

Most recently she was a guest popup artist at Beach House 5317, where an art collector inquired about her work and ended up at Christie’s home studio where she bought the entire inventory of 6X6 mosaics for her home in Tennessee.

Christie is scheduled for another popup spot at Beach House in January.

Christie also continues to work with pastels, making drawings embellished with bits of colored paper, ribbon and wood. She says she likes to decorate the mats of the pastel drawings to give them a dimensional frame.

Combined with the tactile elements added to the drawings, it creates the feeling of a scene viewers can step into. One of her favorites is a drawing of row houses in Baltimore, her hometown, done in a similar style

MARGO CHRISTIE

By Lynn Taylor

to her Florida imagery. Another is of her sister admiring the bougainvilleas at Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport.

Christie explains that the pique assiette mosaics draw on her appreciation of both art and collectibles.

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

“I found a way to utilize the beauty of someone else’s forgotten art – the floral scene on the porcelain – to create wall art that is frilly and whimsical at the same time.”

Find more at margochristie. wordpress.com.

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‘Apocalypse Yesterday’ Fitting Book for the Times

By Cathy Salustri

CATHY SALUSTRI

If ever a book begged for a review these days, it’s Brock Adams’ “Apocalypse Yesterday,” perhaps the most underrated book of 2020, and also offers the perfect allegory for the year.

Welcome to Spanish Shanty, Florida, after the zombie apocalypse.

Meet Rip, who kept the zombies at

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bay from his water-ringed perch at the Lazy River Waterpark, find out what happens after humans best the zombies in the apocalypse.

Our hero, Rip, finds himself working back at a Florida call center – we can safely assume Amazon or something like it – where he craves the excitement of killing zombies but

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instead finds himself responding to customer complaints about potato chips, often lacking the sincerity his manager wants (and making this book one that you probably don’t want your 8-year-old to read.) As the story juxtaposes present-day, postzombie-killing life with “back then” (during the zombie apocalypse), Adams offers stunning commentary about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whether or not he intended this book as pandemic commentary remains unclear – Publisher’s Weekly suggested in its review that yes, Adams intended this as commentary – but Adams doesn’t write a book a year a la Tim Dorsey. More likely is that he had the manuscript ready to go and tweaked it to make it significant for 2020.

Nevertheless, parallels remain, especially in discussing the way communities remember their handling of the pandemic apocalypse. Rip laughs at the local mayor’s statement that everyone pulled together; he recalls infighting and people who didn’t believe the zombies were real. No one pulled together, Rip remembers. They said they did later, but they didn’t. You can’t help but read that and wonder if, in 20 years, history books will describe the COVID-19 pandemic with more unity than anyone can point to today.

Adams story also tells of the good that came of the apocalypse, and how quickly it disappeared once the threat did, too, calling to mind the countless news stories we read of nesting birds returning to beaches and the planet healing while we stayed inside… and how it won’t last once we’re free to move about the country.

Pandemics and zombies aside, Adams penned a funny, thoughtful look at how Floridians – and Americans – handle a global crisis. If you love reading about zombies, you’ve likely already found this book. If you enjoy the tragicomic, you’ll appreciate his fantastical depiction of Anderson Cooper’s courageous demise.

It’s an easy, sharp read, but, unlike 2020, the book’s most glaring flaw is how it ends: without sufficient resolution.

We’ll leave you to it to discover what that means.

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

New Year, New Ideas: Live Performance in 2021 There was plenty to gripe about on our way out of 2020. For many, the considerable absence of live theater and performance was catastrophic.

But the survival instinct kicked in as well, with music and theater groups hustling to find new ways of bringing their work to audiences. In some cases, what began as stopgaps meant to keep the lights on while riding out the pandemic turned into innovative new formats and techniques successful enough to stick around long after we stop social distancing.

“I think everyone was looking for a way to keep the performing arts in the public eye, safely,” said Chris Green of the St. Petersburg Opera Company, which has been putting on outdoor, pop-up style “POPera” performances all over town since the spring. The shows have been well attended, and a casual stroll down the SPO’s Facebook page finds no shortage of love and appreciation for these events.

“After our first set of POPera events, we have had members of our community reach out to bring the event to their location,” Green said.

“We are certainly always open for more; one of our sayings is ‘Opera Is Everywhere’ and we intend to live up to that. We will bring POPera and Opera itself to our community in any way that we can.”

With SPO’s POPera performances held in such varied locations – from outside the Museum of Fine Art to Cage Brewing – they’re accessible and comfortable to just about anyone, whether they’re new to opera or seasoned concertgoers.

Some locations are free and others require advanced purchase of tickets. Free locations are BYOS (bring your own seating] and may or may or may not have refreshment options, while paid locations have seating options, drinks and on-site restrooms.

“We are fortunate that many of our partners in the arts have outdoor spaces that lend themselves well to socially distancing and outdoor performances,” said Green.

With outdoor performances being key during the pandemic, freeFall Theatre Company took things a step further in a move that the theater hopes will pay off in 2021 and beyond. The company transformed part of its venue on Central Avenue

FREEFALL THEATRE

By Jeff Donnelly

into a permanent, outdoor stage to show a live, drive-in radio version of “War of the Worlds” back in October.

“Eric (Davis, Artistic Director) and team knew we had the property and parking to do an outdoor experience of some kind. They also wanted it to be safe for performers and audience members,” Matthew McGee, Outreach/Marketing Director of the freeFall, said. “Initially, there were so many obstacles. Building the stage and creating the tech were big challenges both artistically and financially. We had to create a whole new theater.”

Not only did freeFall overcome, but the show was such a hit that the theater extended its run.

When the time came to consider a holiday show, freeFall’s team took the drive-in model and applied it successfully to its production of “A Chirstmas Carol in Concert,” which ran to a packed parking lot through December 27.

If the arts community can bring big, bright lights to a dark 2020 with the likes of POPera and drivein theater, there’s much to look forward to in 2021.

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

PLAN TO BE HEALTHY AND SAVE*

Dr. Stuart Pollack GULFPORT CHIROPRACTIC 5301 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport

(727) 321-9520 *Wellness Plan $150 Annual Fee • Evaluation Exam $30 Visits (as often as you like)

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the gabs

Brittni DiPatrizio, Tampa: “My old year evolution was appreciating life a little bit more, slowing down. I really like to travel and this year I wasn’t able to do that as much, so I stayed home appreciating friends and family.”

Josh Reilly, St. Petersburg: “My old year evolution is that I think I gained a lot more control of myself. Whether it was financially, mentally, spiritually, emotionally – I feel like I had a good year in all of that regard; it was awesome.

LAURA MULROONEY

Chad Craigwick, St. Petersburg: “You can’t perfect perfection, but my vanity could use a little tweaking.”

Sheridan Little, Gulfport: “Last year with this pandemic, with the total shock to the system and awakening, I stopped eating meat; I completely reevaluated my relationship with the corporation I work for and I’m going to remove myself from that and go into teaching. I feel like during this whole time I’ve had more of a community even though we haven’t been able to be social; I’ve been able to grow my friend circle, oddly enough. And, I just want to take that internal reset and bring that into the world and find some better purpose.”

LAURA MULROONEY

LAURA MULROONEY

Kailey Worthington, St. Petersburg: “I moved to Florida, I got my first job as an occupational therapist and I started dating my boyfriend, Josh – so, that’s been great. This year has really taught me what truly matters, which is family and friends and staying around the people who are important to you.”

LAURA MULROONEY

Instead of new year resolutions that come and go, what were your old year evolutions?

Michael Taramae, Gulfport: “I have regressed.”

Michelle Taramae, Gulfport: “And I’ve pulled him along for the past 30 years.”

Visit theGabber.com and click on the YouTube link to view more of The Gabs!

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 31

1996 Emmy Winners

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 31

BETTY POLLAK

sudoku

In New Rochelle, New York, Bette Pollak’s favorite reads include the Gabber and her gardening magazines, as she tries to figure out what to plant in the spring.

Have you taken the Gabber somewhere? Or maybe stayed at home? We want to see your pictures! Please send a highresolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

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Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3) times. Holy Spirit, you Who Solve All Problems, Light All Roads, So That I Can Attain My Goal. You Who Gave Me The Divine Gift To Forgive And Forget All Evil Against Me And That In All Instances In My Life You Are With Me. I Want In This Short Prayer To Thank You For All Things As You Confirm Once Again That I Never Want To Be Seperated From You In Eternal Glory. Thank You For Your Mercy Towards Me and Mine. L.M.G. O HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. 4 E.A. and A.A. Handy Person HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-4102201 CARPENTER DEPENDABLE! Have Tools Will Travel Trustworthy. Doors, Decks/ Eaves/Rotted Wood, Etc. 30 Year Gabber Advertiser. Free Estimates, Lic. C-5754.

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theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

solutions

DEADLINES HAVE CHANGED! 5 p.m. Friday for next Thursday’s issue.

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Starting in early January 2021, our new office will be located at 6641 Central Avenue within the West Central Shopping plaza!

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ERT theGabber.com | January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021

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