The Gabber: January 20, 2022

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2744

January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Girl Power For the young women of the Gulfport Montessori Elementary Girlfriends Club, Monday, Jan. 17 was a Martin Luther King Jr. Day to remember.

The club marched through downtown St. Petersburg in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Big Parade. It was the first time the Gulfport Montessori Elementary School all-girls club marched in the annual parade.

“Ever since I mentioned the parade they haven’t let it go,” said Robin Moore, a counselor at Gulfport Elementary. “The girls are really excited.”

Moore heads the group. She works alongside a team of female teachers and administrators who encourage the students to discuss leadership and female empowerment each week for nine weeks.

A spot in Gulfport Girlfriends is an exclusive one, Moore says.

Every nine weeks, each fourthand fifth-grade homeroom teacher selects four female students to join the club. The girls win prizes, fill

Girl Power continued on page 8

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Selah Wright waits for the march to begin.

Gabber on, everyone!

Gulfport City Council met this past Tuesday night – find out what happened online at thegabber.com. Also online: learn about Derek Donnelly’s latest mural and the latest free drive-through COVID testing site.

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

voices No Elections, But Why? At the penultimate council meeting, I brought up what

I wrote in my previous letter: that no one chose to run in the most recent election campaign for mayor and council is a municipal embarrassment that stifles progress. I stated that one major barrier for anyone choosing to run is that council pay works out to be less than $10/hour, despite the position’s responsibility. Very few competent working-class folks are going to elect to trade off career and family for that pittance, despite how virtuous a calling public service may be.

Mayor Henderson dismissed my assertion in his characteristically affable manner that the uncontested election was instead due to a political climate that has made people wearisome. When I looked around the audience, I saw enough heads nodding in agreement that I want to openly dispute his claim.

St. Pete is a suitable proxy since they are our next door neighbor and their elections were just a few months ago.

In last year’s primaries there were nine candidates vy-

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

ing for mayor and between four-five candidates vying for each council position. Compare that to none in Gulfport.

Yes, zero. In light of this, Mayor Henderson’s claim of a wearied populace has no merit.

But we must be shrewd enough to see through this and realize that it’s the community at large who is harmed. We ought to demand that city hall acknowledges this raceless race as an abject institutional failure and address the three root causes of low pay, establish term limits, and increase term durations. We must bring all three outdated holdovers up to contemporary standards or be left behind. –Greg Simek, Gulfport

Correction

In the Jan. 13 edition, we mistakenly identified a picture of Marra Piazza Brass’ tie-dyed hand as signing “I love you”, but rather than the rock ‘n’ roll sentiment intended.

To sign “I love you”, this hand would have had the thumb extended. The Gabber regrets the error.

The Gabber welcomes and encourages letters and commentary. One letter per person, per month. All letters must be signed with your real name, and should be as brief as possible. Letters may be lightly edited 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.

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

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news Chicken Enters Mayoral Race

Lima, a Tutu-Wearing Chicken, Wants To Be Gulfport’s Next Pet Mayor

By Abby Baker

ABBY BAKER

Lima, a silky hen who lives in Gulfport’s Ward IV, peeps hello.

Lima, a pure black Silkie chicken, spends her days eating watermelon off a mini “chick-nic” table with her sister hens in owner Emily Pope’s Gulfport backyard.

Perhaps unbeknown to her, Lima is the first poultry-type candidate for the title of Gulfport pet mayor.

Pope’s brood includes three other Silkie hens (Penny, Paprika, and Patty) and two dogs.

Why Lima for pet mayor?

“Because she’s cute,” Pope said, holding the clucking hen. “She’s very vocal. It reminds me of the Gulfport Facebook page, how she’s always

4

squawking.”

Gulfport’s pet mayor election benefits the Gulfport Historical Society and SPCA Tampa Bay. The reigning pet will serve from Feb. 26, 2022-Feb. 25, 2023.

Coco, the previous pet mayor and resident chocolate lab at Gulfport’s Historic Peninsula Inn served two terms, due to COVID cancellations.

Lima’s nomination would be a change of pace, to say the least.

“I thought that it was egg-cellent,” said Amanda Hagood, the su-pawvisor of the election. “Gulfport is egg-centric.”

Voters can cast their ballots (one vote costs $1, and the Society encourages people to vote often) online or at one of the ballot boxes.

Each ballot box has a slot for cash and a QR code for online voting accessibility, says Hagood.

Dedicated to Lima’s future administration, Pope carries a QR code in her apron when she works her shifts as a server at Sea Dog Cantina in Gulfport.

“I’d be so happy if she won,” Pope said. “I already brag about her to everyone.”

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

ABBY BAKER

Lima, Meet Gulfport Pope, a South Carolina transplant, bought Lima from a Silkie breeder in Lakeland.

Bred chickens are typically less socialized, says Pope. That’s why Lima’s calm disposition and tolerance of hair ties (for her extra long head feathers) and tutus surprised her human.

“She hollers for treats until someone comes outside,” Pope said.

Her treats of choice are watermelon and mealworms, and, on special occasions, crab legs. She fills her days rolling in the dust, laying tiny Silkie eggs and chasing squirrels out of Pope’s fenced-in yard.

Cast Your Vote Find the ballot boxes at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar, Stella’s, the North End Taphouse, Gulfport Public Library, and the Gulfport History

Museum. The winner gets inaugurated at Gulfport’s Get Rescued on Saturday, Feb. 26. Pets and owners will attend the wagging-in (or, perhaps, the laying-in) ceremony at the festival, says Hagood.

While Lima is an unusually social chicken, Pope plans to walk her on a leash around Gulfport to prepare for the social pressures that come with the pet mayor title.

See the nominees and vote for your favorite furry or feathered friend at gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

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Gulfport Spitfire Jerryanne Hindman Dead at 77

Friends and Colleagues Mourn the Loss of Warm, Caring, Funny Lady People throughout Gulfport knew Jerryanne Hindman as a bubbly character with a larger than life personality and a friendly face at the Gulfport Senior Center.

Hindman died Dec. 29 in her Town Shores home after a battle with intestinal illnesses.

She is survived by her brother, Robert Hindman and her dog Muffin.

(Muffin now lives with an adoring neighbor.)

Born in Kansas City, Missouri on Dec. 10, 1949, Robert and Geraldine Hindman adopted and raised her.

An involved Gulfportian, she was the previous Gulfport Senior Center Foundation office manager, a breast cancer survivor, a retired nurse in the United States Air Force, and a friend to many.

One of her closest friends in Gulfport, Muzi Michaels, met Hindman at a party in 2006. The two women connected instantly.

“By the end of the evening we were living it up,” Michaels told The Gabber. “She was a bubbly little thing... a big personality.”

Anyone who called Hindman a friend mentions her running joke of starkly claiming to be 5’7’ – a good six inches taller than her 5’1”.

It’s one of Hindman classic jokes, says Mary (Ellen) Abell. Abell met Hindman when they were both in their 20s, while working administrative jobs in Coral Gables.

They remained friends for more than 50 years, traveling to visit each

JERRYANNE HINDMAN

By Abby Baker

“She was so full of life,” said Mary Abell. “And loved by so many people.”

other, withstanding marriages – and the highs and lows of life. Abell’s family nicknamed the duo Frick and Frack early on in their friendship.

“She was just vibrant, she was like a sister to my siblings, and a daughter to my parents,” Abell said. “She was always there, she made everyone laugh, and was just hysterical.”

Originally from the Midwest, Hindman died in a place she once filled with life: the Chatham building at Town Shores.

Town Shores property manager Roger Bell remembers her as an

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honest, lively woman. Bell hit it off with Hindman soon after he took the position in 2011.

“When we met, we instantly connected because of her sassy personality,” Bell said. “I loved that about her. If you wanted to know the truth, no matter how it was going to be told to you, just ask Jerryanne.”

And she never slowed down.

Hindman volunteered often at the Gulfport Senior Center to help her community and be surrounded by friends. Eventually, she took on the role of the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation Office Manager.

Hindman retired from her position, but left her mark.

“She was very lively around here,’ said Rachel Cataldo, the Gulfport Senior Center Supervisor. “She brought a lot of positive energy to the Center.”

Hindman’s celebration of life ceremony will take place at the Historic Peninsula Inn at a later date.

“We think it’s best to wait until after COVID dies down a little,” Michaels said.

The Gabber will have the details once friends set a time and place.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Gulfport Legend: Dawn Fisher

More to This Former City Councilmember Than Meets the Eye

CITY OF GULFPORT

Dawn Fisher likes things tidy.

You’ll find her in the early morning, a sprightly figure in her neon-yellow safety vest, plucking litter from the side of the street with the help of a long plastic claw.

“That’s a pick-stick,” she says, clacking the gripper open and shut.

She always carries one, just in case.

She’ll give you one, too, if you promise to help pick up trash. And – because she likes things organized – she’ll add your name to the list of pick-stick-patrolling neighbors she keeps tucked between various newspaper clippings, photos, and certificates in her sizable scrapbook.

Fisher started picking litter while on Gulfport’s City Council (20012005) as a way to care for the community she’d come to love, years after her first visit to Gulfport in 1986.

Serving on council provided many others.

Every Friday, she recalls, “You would pick up a thick notebook of city business to review. It was like being back in college! And you could always tell, at meetings, who had worked on their books.” During her tenure, city council brought forward many significant projects, each carefully documented in the album: The refurbishment of Fire Station 17, a $1 million renovation of the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, and the opening of the 49th Street Neighborhood Center.

Then came the Human Rights Ordinance.

The 2005 ordinance protected residents, visitors, and employees from discrimination based on gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, and appearance. And while today’s city proudly embraces its distinction as an LGBTQ-friendly community, the HRO stirred controversy when Ward III councilmember Harry Brodhead, spurred by residents who experienced discrimination, introduced the idea in 2004.

Though the HRO passed after her tenure, Fisher’s voice joined those urging Gulfport forward. As Gulfport’s first openly gay city council

CATHY KAISER

By Amanda Hagood

Dawn Fisher didn’t stop serving Gulfport when her term on council ended 18 years ago.

You can find Dawn Fisher picking up litter most mornings in Gulfport.

member, she was part of the historic transformation taking place.

“Gulfport was getting more diverse,” she recalls. “There was a new openness.”

The city started changing in other ways, too. With the area’s first Art Walk in 1993, Gulfport started to cultivate an “artistic aura” that drew visitors. For Fisher, a poet for more than 50 years, this was another reason to love Gulfport. The emerging arts community reminded her of childhood trips to Chicago, where her mother – who once wanted to act – would introduce her children to museums, theater, and an artistic circle that included painter Doris Lee and musician Hoagie Carmichael.

So when Eileen Navarro of the Gulfport Community Players asked for help funding a permanent space in 2007, she gifted GCP the $250,000 needed to buy the Back Door Theater – in honor of her mom.

“It takes people doing their job to make a community prosper,” she remarks. “Not going for money or for putting their names on things.” It all boils down to a simple personal philosophy: “I get involved!”

And with that, she pulls a rubber glove on one hand and takes up her pick-stick in the other. There’s still a little more to do today.

Meet Dawn Fisher at Gulfport Stories Jan. 28, 7 p.m. at the Gulfport History Museum.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

7

Girl Power continued from cover

ABBY BAKER

Dancers from Take Ova Elite Dance Company visit with the Girlfriends Club.

their composition notebooks with future plans, and work as a team.

“I hope I get to make more friends here, but it’s not only for fun,” said student Shayelynn Ellis.

“It’s important that we’re here.”

The week before the parade, the subject of the day was Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech.

The girls made signs for the parade and shared their dreams.

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“What did the ‘I Have a Dream’ speech mean to you?” asked Moore.

A student raised her hand: “Someone cared when no one else did.”

11-year-old Jayla Magliore is one of the students who marched on Monday. It’s her second time in the Girlfriend’s Club.

“I like the activities we do … and I like that some of the things we do are about helping out the community,” Magliore told The Gabber.

Marissa Stewart-Dix, president of Gulfport Kiwanis Club is a Gulfport Montessori Elementary social worker involved with the club.

Gulfport Kiwanis paid the parade entry fee.

“I want the Kiwanis Club to be more involved with local schools,” Stewart-Dix said. “This is definitely one way.”

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

100 Wishes

For this Centenarian, a Surprise Parade and Hope for 100 Birthday Cards

Housekeeper Michelle Jackson doesn’t know Bart Corricelli, her client of five months, particularly well. She does know he’s an avid reader, a former World War II Marine, and that he turns 100 on Feb. 4.

Jackson, the owner of Treasure Island housekeeping service Island Maid, found herself charmed by Corricelli’s happy -go-lucky demeanor.

“Every time I come to clean his home, he’s reading the newspaper or a book,” Jackson said. “He’s such a cute man, always smiling and waving.”

So she set out on a Facebook mission to collect 100 mailed birthday cards for Corricelli’s big day.

The idea quickly gained traction online.

“I thought maybe five or six people would respond, but my inbox was flooded,” Jackson said. “I’m so excited that everyone’s responding. I hope it turns out for him; I think it will tickle

ANGIE GOODWIN

By Abby Baker

“Even if he got just one card, I think he will be over the moon,” Jackson said.

his heart.”

Now, with the help of the St. Petersburg Police Department (depending on availability of officers on the day) Jackson will host a community street parade the day after Corricelli’s centennial. The parade already has more than 80 confirmed participants.

Want to join the parade? Jackson says anyone with a vehicle can drive down Corricelli’s street, 10th Avenue

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

South at 79th Street, and cheer, honk, or clap in celebration. The parade starts at 3 p.m. on Feb. 5, and those who wish to join should call Jackson at 727-698-7743.

“He calls everyone ‘sweetheart’ or ‘pal’,” said Corricelli’s daughter, Angie Goodwin. “He’s going to be really humbled by this ... he’ll cry for sure.”

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Gulfport Police Gets First Hybrid Patrol Car The Police Will Also Get Two Gas-Powered Cars The Gulfport Police Department will get three new cars – two powered strictly by gasoline and one hybrid car.

At the Jan. 4 meeting, council approved the purchase of three replacement vehicles for the Gulfport Police Department. Council had the option of spending $159,054 on three new gasoline Dodge Charger police vehicles or $175,248 to buy three Ford Police Interceptor Utility Hybrids. Both purchase options include emergency equipment and car video and body cameras.

Council voted 4-1 to instead to buy two Chargers and one of the Ford hybrids, following a motion from Councilmember Paul Ray (Ward III).

“It’s a hybrid version,” he said of the plan.

Ray said other police departments sometimes buy a single hybrid vehicle to see how they performed and meshed with the rest of the fleet.

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Council approved the purchase of two gas-powered cars and one hybrid car.

The department has had a hybrid vehicle before, though.

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“We bought one with forfeiture funds back in 2010,” Chief Rob Vincent told The Gabber. A school resource officer first drove the hybrid; Officer Zack Mills later drove the car.

“This will be the first ‘patrol’ car that is a hybrid.”

The city will pay for the cars with Penny for Pinellas sales tax monies, and from whatever money it gets from selling the existing police cars.

Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) said she preferred the police department purchase electric or hybrid vehicles.

“Even though it’s more money I would like us to try the hybrid cars,” Thanos said.

Her push to buy three new hybrid cars failed to get a second motion.

Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent did not have a strong preference for the replacement purchases but said the Charger has slightly better performance in terms of pursuits and closing speeds.

“Performance means a lot in this business,” Vincent said.

The city does not yet have a cost for the new purchase option, but the costs, the city says, should remain below the $175,248 cap for the replacement cars.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

St. Pete Politicians Craft Piney Point Bill

Brandes & Diamond Write Law to Inform Locals About Environmental Risks Piney Point captured national headlines last year when the massive phosphogypsum stack began leaking toxic water, threatening Tampa Bay residents and the environment. The leaking water drained into Tampa Bay, leading to an extended and costly red tide outbreak in the bay.

To help residents stay informed on issues with the nearby gypsum stacks, Representative Ben Diamond (D-St. Petersburg) teamed with Senator Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) filing legislation to improve the abatement efforts.

“We know how important our water is here in Tampa Bay,” said Diamond, a lifelong Bay Area resident.

After witnessing the Piney Point catastrophe, Diamond attended Florida Department of Environmental Protection meetings to see how the DEP planned to prevent future disasters.

Working across the aisle with Brandes, who introduced SB 1744 in the senate, Diamond hopes the bills will allow Florida residents accessible information when there are threats to drinking water and public health.

HB 1339 and SB 1744 require the DEP to notify the Florida Division of Emergency Management, county commissioners, and emergency officials in the county where the stack is located within 24 hours of an issue.

The legislation also directs the Florida DEP to create and maintain a publicly accessible online database listing all phosphogypsum stacks by county, along with summaries of inspections, imminent hazards, abatement actions, and material violations.

Diamond said it’s important to let constituents know of issues that may affect them as soon as possible.

The new bills will establish guidelines for reporting incidents as well as the aforementioned accessible database, an annual risk evaluation, and the expedited notification if there’s a threat.

“It’s shocking that there’s been no evaluation now,” said Jacklyn Lopez, of the Center for Biological Diversity’s St. Petersburg office. “It’s a good start, but I’d like to see more aggressive action.”

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Nan Colton as Author Virginia Woolf In Person at the Catherine Hickman Theater

Sunday, February 6 at 4 p.m.

Tickets are $25 and available online

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Gulfport Police Officers Sue City

Claiming ADA Violations, Retaliation, Two Officers Take Gulfport to Court The City of Gulfport entered 2022 defending its police department against two lawsuits from current and former officers: One that alleges disability discrimination and one that alleges illegal retaliation from a current and a former police officer.

Current Gulfport Police Officer Jonathon Ross and former officer Ray Marshall filed separate lawsuits against the city and police department in November 2020 and July 2021, respectively.

The city denies those ongoing claims in court filings and internal documents provided to The Gabber.

Tampa employment attorney Bradley Tobin represents both Ross and Marshall. He expects to see depositions and the discovery process start in earnest in 2022 for Ross’ Americans with Disabilities Act claim and Marshall’s disability discrimination and retaliation suit against the City of Gulfport and Gulfport police.

Both suits also claim disability discrimination violations via the Florida Civil Rights Act. Jonathan Ross Ross’ mediation hearing will take place on March 9, 2022, according to

GULFPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT

By Mike Sunnucks

Current Gulfport Police Officer Jonathon Ross (pictured) and former officer Ray Marshall filed separate lawsuits against the city and police department in November 2020 and July 2021, respectively.

court records.

Ross started with the Gulfport Police in March 2014. He had a motorcycle accident in 2018.

Ross filed suit against the City and police alleging violations of the ADA over his treatment by the depart-

ment regarding his medical condition. The ADA offers workplace protections to workers with disabilities and medical conditions.

“As a result of (the) plaintiff’s physical health issues he was required to seek various accommodations and

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

benefits, including necessary leave time to attend medical and therapy appointments,” reads the lawsuit filed in federal court in Tampa.

Ross’ suit alleges he has been “unnecessarily” questioned by police supervisors about medical appointments and leave and that he has been treated “in a hostile and accusatory manner.”

He filed the initial complaint in Nov. 2020; he updated the complaint in March 2021.

The ADA suit contends Ross suffered from “unwarranted discipline” and ”retaliatory disparate treatment with regard to promotion opportunities.”

The latter centers on the 2019 process Gulfport police used for a promotion to sergeant. The ADA lawsuit calls the process unfair and says the department “maliciously” manipulated the process to disfavor Ross.

City and GPD records provided to The Gabber show Ross also faced internal sanctions.

Gulfport officials — including City Manager Jim O’Reilly, Police Chief Robert Vincent and Police Commander Mary Farrand — declined to comment on the Ross and Marshall lawsuits, citing “ongoing litigation.”

The city has denied the allegations in both cases, according to court filings.

“All employment actions taken by the City with regards to Plaintiff and

his employment were taken for legitpromotion process to potentially imate, non-discriminatory reasons justify that determination or for a unrelated to his alleged disability termination. and/or any asserted protected con The City denies that claim; Vincent duct,” the City said in its responses said there was no evidence of that to both the Ross and Marshall lawdirective in an internal investigation. suits.

Ross had also served in GPD’s Ma The city also claims Ross did not rine Unit and voiced concerns about properly report alleged ADA violathe condition of – and resources tions and other allocated to – GulfMarshall ... claimed the port’s police boat. concerns. mistreated In an internal inter “The Plaintiff department u n r e a s o n a b l y him at work and wrongly view with Vincent failed to report terminated him in 2019. on Jan. 28, 2020, and/or delayed Ross told the chief reporting any alleged harassment he’d been hassled over sick leave as required by the Defendant’s poliand vacation time requests after his cy and practice prohibiting such hamotorcycle accident, was unfairly rassment and, as a result, the Dewritten up for having a dirty police fendant was not provided with the vehicle and was put at an unfair opportunity to take prompt correcdisadvantage and was disparaged tive action regarding the alleged hain the promotional process for serrassment,” the City wrote in federal geant. court filings.

Vincent interviewed Ross’ super Gulfport also seeks attorneys fees visors and other officers as part of in both lawsuits. that internal inquiry, including some A March 2020 memo from Vincent negative comments other police to O’Reilly further outlines Ross’ personnel allegedly made about complaints.

Ross, according to City documents.

Those include notes from a Janu The chief concluded that Ross’ ary 2020 interview Vincent conductcontentions of mistreatment and an ed with Ross after Tobin contacted unfair promotion process were “unCity in November 2019, indicating founded”. Vincent said he made the a potential disability discrimination promotion process determination lawsuit. evaluators focused on “aptitude for Tobin’s letter also referenced leadership.” whether Vincent wanted more doc Vincent forwarded Ross’ claim of umentation on Ross’ performance being “paper-trailed” to document after he received low scores in the Police continued on page 14

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

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Police continued from page 13 his performance to O’Reilly for further review. Vincent told O’Reilly there were no indications of such an order after conducting an e-mail search over the preceding 24 months and interviewing other officers.

Cynthia Sass, a certified federal mediator and managing partner of Tampa-based Sass Law Firm, will hold the mediation hearing in the Ross case March 9.

Tobin said the Ross and Marshall cases center on how GPD treats officers and handles personnel concerns.

“They should follow their own rules, their own procedures. They should be dealing with these guys fairly,” Tobin said. He expects depositions and discovery requests for Ross’ case – and Ray Marshall’s – in 2022.

Ray Marshall Marshall filed his disability discrimination claim against the city in Pinellas Circuit Court in July, in which he claimed the department mistreated him at work and wrongly terminated him in 2019. The suit alleges disability discrimination and retaliation in violation of the Florida Civil Rights Act. Marshall worked as a Gulfport police officer from 2014 until 2019. The civil lawsuit claims mistreatment during his tenure stemming from his medical condition and leave requests for doctors’ appointments.

“(The) plaintiff was discriminated against due to his health-related issues and conditions and retaliated against for seeking accommodations related to the same,” Marshall’s lawsuit reads.

A key aspect of the case concerns doctors’ appointments Marshall had in April 2019 and a police training class during that time frame. Marshall contends he mixed up the dates of two medical appointments when asking for leave, thus, he missed the training class.

GPD conducted an internal investigation over whether Marshall told the truth about those appointments.

The civil lawsuit also claims Vincent told Marshall he could resign or get fired, with either choice potentially barring Marshall from a future career in law enforcement. The City denies this in court filings.

“Marshall experienced great mental anguish, anxiety, and distress that day; so much so that he was detained in a mental health facility under the state’s Baker Act. That same day Defendant terminated Marshall’s employment,” the lawsuit says.

The city’s response to the that provision also alleges Marshall “made threats of violence against members of the City” during that distress, according to a court filing submitted by the city’s attorneys Nov. 23, 2021.

Tobin has not yet responded to

questions about the city’s contention.

Marshall’s lawsuit calls the city’s process for his termination unfair, and that it should not have included information from a 2015 investigation related to Marshall’s initial job application.

Marshall argues the city and police department violated the state’s civil rights law and protections for workers with disabilities by “treating him in a harassing, hostile, and disparate manner, terminating his employment and by otherwise discriminating against him.”

O’Reilly reaffirmed the decision to fire Marshall in June 2019 after the officer and police officers’ union challenged the action, according to records. O’Reilly referenced an April 2019 incident, alleging the officer was “witnessed (discovered) sleeping in his marked patrol car on April 4, 2019,” records reveal.

At a June 5 internal police review, Marshall said “he had been having sleepless nights due to a family member being ill.”

That incident and the alleged discrepancies over medical appointments and a missed training class resulted in the termination, according to police documents.

The city also denies Marshall’s other contentions in court filings and argues the former officer did not have a “legally cognizable disability” under the state statute.

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

15

arts Riley Pitzen Keeps Art In the Family

Young Artist, Aspiring Filmmaker Follows in his Father’s Footsteps Whenever Riley Pitzen drives by the Gulfport Waterfront District sign, he thinks of pre-installation, when it sat in his family’s backyard.

Pitzen’s dad, artist Tom Pitzen, created the sign that marks the Gulfport Waterfront District. Tom also created two installations in Clymer Park, and a multitude of works around St. Petersburg.

Riley’s mom, Amy Stowers, earned a fine arts degree from Ohio State University.

Of the three Pitzen children, Riley’s the only artist, something Tom didn’t expect, but encourages.

“It almost seemed like it happened instantly; (Riley’s creativity) was kind of a surprise,” Tom said. “It’s very exciting.”

The younger Pitzen can’t remember a time he wasn’t surrounded with art.

“We’ve always had an art room at my house,” he said. “I’ve been drawing since I was very young … I’ve done drawings for my family before and they are always encouraging, excited to see where it’s going to go.”

20-year-old Pitzen works as an experience guide at the immersive art experience, Fairgrounds St. Pete. In his free time, he creates hyper-realistic drawings of iconic figures, shoots photography, and makes films.

“I learned most of what I know off the internet and YouTube,” Pitzen told The Gabber.

RILEY PITZEN

By Abby Baker

“Malala Yousafzai”

Beginnings

Camera Ready

The artist’s first solo exhibit opened Jan. 7 at the Catherine Hickman Theater. Throughout January, people can see 10 Pitzen photographs and eight drawings in the lobby of the theater.

It was Pitzen’s first solo show, but not his first rodeo.

“It turned out pretty good for my first solo show,” Pitzen said. “My friends showed up, a lot of people in Gulfport did, too.”

His work had already captured the attention of renowned Gulfport artist Ray Domingo.

In September, 2021, Pitzen displayed his work at the RightBrain Show at Domingo’s home studio.

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When Pitzen goes for late afternoon walks around Gulfport, he often brings his camera – just in case there’s something picture worthy.

He photographs mundane pieces of suburbia to show the beauty in the overlooked.

“I like to take ordinary things and make them interesting,” Pitzen said.

“So that’s really anything around the neighborhood … like the BMW with a flower, it was just too perfect.”

But the artist’s biggest passion is cinematography. Pitzen and two friends shoot short films for their small film company, Quiet Sky Films.

“It feels good seeing him grow; one of the things I’m really excited about is his film career,” Tom said.

Pitzen’s the one with the camera, and his friends write the scripts and create ideas for future films.

The young cinematographers create short horror clips. They are still learning the basics, but have big dreams.

“Our plan is to go somewhere with a bigger film industry,” Pitzen said. “Maybe LA.” See more of Pitzen’s work at rileypitzen.com and quietskyfilms. com

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

17

Vaginas of the Tree

Gulfport Artist Berkeley Grimball Makes Queen Palms Into Vaginal Art Known in the Gulfport community for constructing and creating an instrument out of seed pods from queen palm trees (the podharp), and dazzling fans with his musical talent in his band, The Tortugas, Berkeley Grimball has embarked on a new project.

When he moved to Gulfport three years ago, Grimball took notice of the seed pods littering his yard. Naturally, he wandered over to the stray pieces and inspected them, amazed at their resilience and durability.

He played around with the possibilities of pieces he could create out of the sturdy and steady wood. Eventually, he assembled his podharp: a 5-foot tall, 21-string instrument resembling the kora. Now, Grimball focuses his art on more delicate subject matter: the vagina. “[They are] vaginal in [their] look.

I mean the seed pods, they kind of look, they kind of ask for that,” he paused. “They’re like the vaginas of the tree, really... It’s almost like it chose me because they’re so evocative, and that was sort of weird. The form led to that.”

After picking a pod that suits him, Grimball dedicates between 20 and 30 hours creating each sculpture.

He relies on the pods and bamboo as his sole materials for the wall sculptures.

“It’s a very organic process. I’m dealing with totally organic materials; you have to be fairly fluid in how things come together because

BERKELEY GRIMBALL

By Gabby Reeder

One of Grimball’s vagina sculptures made out of queen palm seed pods

materials are going to do what they want to do,” Grimball explained.

He sells the sculptures for between $400 and $500 each.

“I’m hoping to have quite a few pieces made for the February art

show,” Grimball said. Although his work in the February Gulfport Fine Arts Festival won’t focus solely on his vaginal art, he will include them alongside his display of pod and bamboo sculptures.

A Maker’s Market in Downtown Gulfport with Music & Live Entertainment Third Saturday of Every Month

5 - 9 PM For more information: VisitGulfportFlorida.com/indiefaire 18

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Just Sit Right Back...

Gulfport Players Rescue the Laughter by Bringing This ‘60s TV Classic Onstage The world probably didn’t need a musical stage version of some television show that only ran for three seasons back in the 1960s, but “Gilligan’s Island” was not just any show.

Through the magic of syndication, this goofy and thinly plotted sitcom defied its short original run to become a cultural touchstone. It has silliness and pratfalls, winking sex jokes that the kids won’t get but their parents sure will, and a comfortably dopey formula as predictable and easy to forgive as the show’s title character. I’m not sure why we still love Gilligan after all the rescues he botched, but the Gulfport Community Players found a way to tap into his peculiar charm in their new production, “Gilligan’s Island: The Musical.”

Like its TV predecessor, the stage production needs a likable and game cast of actors to work, and director Olga Kruse pulls it off with a motley crew of talented local performers who jump into the broad comedy feet first.

Bruce Taylor and Marina Spears are delightfully obnoxious as Mr. and Mrs. Howell, the entitled aristocrats we want to hate but can’t. Rudy Gonzalez nails it as the Professor, with his running list of obscure degrees and uncanny ability to cobble advanced technology out of coconuts and bamboo. We feel Ron Goldstein’s pain as

TAMMY D. LUKAS

By Jeff Donnelly

Cast includes (left to right) Bruce Taylor, Stacie Steinke, Marina Spears, Tammy D. Lukas, Rudy Gonzalez, David Gallagher, William Waters III, and Ron Goldstein.

the Skipper, who is endearing in his ongoing struggle not to strangle the “Little Buddy” who he loves like a son.

And does this production add anything to the decades-long Ginger or Mary Ann debate? Not really; it just gets tougher. In her GCP debut, Stacie Steinke brings some standout sass to her deceptively coy Mary Ann; Tammy D. Lukas vamps it up as Ginger, but she’s a satisfyingly sharp-witted version of the movie star, with a couple of chuckle-worthy running gags.

Another new face is David Gallagher as Gilligan, who brings not only the acting chops but also a knockout voice to the stage at the Catherine Hickman Theater. The tunes created

for this show are likable enough, but they’re elevated under the musical direction of William Bryant and with some stellar singers like Gallagher, Lukas, and Steinke.

We feel compelled to mention that William A. Waters III is a featured member of this cast but we won’t say much more about his role so as to avoid spoilers. But he’s out of this world in a featured role that captures the bizarre appeal of “Gilligan’s Island” after all these years.

Gilligan’s Island: The Musical Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. Through Jan. 23: Thurs.Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. $22. gulfportcommunityplayers.org

Tony Sands returns to the stage

at Catherine Hickman Theater The Rat Pack: Together Again. This production takes you on a musical journey featuring the greatest hits from the legendary Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. Treat yourself to Sinatra classics including Come Fly with Me, My Way, and New York, New York, Dinos' great songs like Everybody Loves Somebody and That's Amore, and Sammy's dynamic Mr. Bojangles and Candy Man!

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

19

food Florida on the Half-Shell

John’s Pass Seafood Festival Making You Hungry? Try This Simple Dish

By Morgan Banno

MORGAN BANNO

If you crave fresh seafood, Florida has plenty to make you happy.

Florida life has many perks: abundant sunshine, velvety soft beaches, and fresh water springs studded with giant sea cows. It’s a laid-back piece of paradise where we wear flip flops year round and throw parties at the hint of a hurricane. Let’s face it: We live where they vacation. But we often get so wrapped up in the visceral awesomeness of the Sunshine State that we forget Florida also has the ideal climate for growing fresh fruits and vegetables year round.

Not only that, but we have coastline on three sides, lending itself to some of the country’s freshest seafood, literally at the ends of our fishing lines.

With 84% of America’s fresh grouper, pompano, mullet, stone crab, pink shrimp, spiny lobsters and Spanish mackerel supplied solely by Florida fishermen, the

20

state ranks #12 in the country for seafood production, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture. In January, seasonal finds include alligator, clams, king mackerel, mullet, oysters (aside from the current moratorium), pompano, snapper, Spanish mackerel, stone crab, tilapia, and tilefish. Most of Florida’s shrimp – brown, white, pink, and red – get harvested from the Gulf of Mexico; rock shrimp get harvested along the state’s east coast. From South Florida to Sarasota from October to May, boaters navigate around stone crab traps.

Tightly regulated, crabbers take only the claws, which the crab can regenerate in 18 months. The key to maintaining a healthy, productive ecosystem relies on fishery management plans to protect marine populations from overharvesting.

With so many varieties of fish available, deciding what to prep for dinner poses a delicious challenge.

Although we can’t get Apalachicola oysters again until 2026 because of the moratorium, this recipe remains one of my favorites, I still make it with Gulf oysters. When buying fresh oysters, hit up a reputable seafood store that stores oysters on ice. The animal should have a fresh, salty smell and be heavy for their size (this means they still have their natural liquor). Toss any oysters with open shells – they’re already dead – and give them a good rinse to remove as much sediment as possible before shucking. The crew at Gulf Coast Seafood hooked me up with oysters and fresh stone crab claws that I turned into delectable tapas; Florida purists can swap Cedar Key clams or sea scallops for the oysters – at least, until 2026.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Oysters with Florida Citrus Mignonette Yield: Enough for one dozen oysters

MORGAN BANNO

Ingredients ½ cup Champagne vinegar Juice from ½ fresh lemon Juice from 1 key lime 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 2 tablespoon minced shallot ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 12 large oysters, shucked Method Stir ingredients in a small bowl and serve over shucked oysters.

Regardless of the time of year, there’s something delicious to be caught in the Gulf and Atlantic. It doesn’t get any fresher than Florida seafood.

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

21

the gabs Which superpower would you not want to have?

Photos by Gabrielle Reeder

Vince O’ Brien, Maryland: “Probably to know the future.”

Peter Dolphin, Philadelphia: “I would love to fly, [not] be a sewer inspector.”

Drayton Callison, St. Pete: “I don’t think that I’d like to have X-ray vision. I like the mystery behind things.”

Jeremy, Orlando: “Being immortal.”

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

crossword

Solution on page 31

Nudniks

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 31

JOHN ALEXANDER

sudoku

Gulfportian John Alexander took The Gabber back to his hometown in Guam to visit his family and eight grandkids.

The careful reader will notice an aircraft carrier in the background, trying to upstage him.

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

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

23

GULFPORT Neptune Grill

5501 Shore Blvd. S. Friday, Jan. 21: Josh Magwood Duo, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: Janie & Lenny Duo, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23: 3’s Company Band, 1 p.m.

North End Taphouse

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S. Friday, Jan. 21: Tony and Sal, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: Bud Good, 3 p.m.; Rob Pieniak 7 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Original Bandingo 8 p.m.

ST. PETE BEACH Woody’s Waterfront

7308 Sunset Way Friday, Jan. 21: J.D. Early, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: J.D. Early, 7 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ricky T’s Bar and Grille

10601 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Jan. 21: Cornfused, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: Kevin Toon, 5 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Kevin Toon, 5 p.m.

Historic Gulfport Casino Ballroom

MADEIRA BEACH

5500 Shore Blvd, Gulfport, FL 33707 Saturday

January 29, 2022 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Tickets $25 • VIP Seating $30 To Benefit Boca Ciega High School Scholarship Fund Tickets available at: Casino, Beach Bazaar, and Online

www.eventbrite.com/e/225926421007 24

Daiquiri Shak Raw Bar & Grille

14995 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Jan. 21: Kevin Toon, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: Jeff Gurney, 6 p.m.; Stonegrey 9 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Big Brother 2 p.m.

Bamboo Beach Bar and Grille

13025 Village Blvd.

Friday, Jan. 21: North Star 1:30 p.m.; Britney Mone 6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 22: Juke Box Heroz 1:30. p.m.; Mark Mann 6 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Gale Tripsmith & Joey 1:30 p.m; Boston Bob 6 p.m.

More live music at thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Gilligan’s Island, Tree Planting + Gulfport Block Party Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

All Week Long Cast of Castaways The Gulfport Community Players presents “Gilligan’s Island: the Musical”. This musical version of the ’60s hit TV show features seven castaways fighting for survival on a shipwrecked island. In Gulfport’s version, the survivors come face to face with an alien. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. Through Jan. 23: Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. $22. gulfportcommunityplayers.org Thursday, January 20Sunday, January 23 Weekend Fish Four days of crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, buckets of Cajun fish, and other saltwater fare at the 40th Annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival. Seafood addicts can explore John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk in search of fresh seafood, live music, and sea-friendly vendors and artists. John’s Pass, 12902 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach.

3-7 p.m. madeirabeachfl.gov

– live music. It’s a weekend party, and Monday’s still a few days away. Caddy’s in Gulfport, 3128 Beach Blvd. S. 7-10 p.m. $10. 727592-2842 Seedlings, Anyone? The City of Gulfport will once again plant a tree to celebrate Arbor Day. Kids from the Gulfport Rec Center’s after-school program will recite poetry and educate people about the seedlings the city’s offering for free. Attendees can get live oak and crape myrtle seedlings – so attend the event and bring home your own baby tree. Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd.

S. 3:45 p.m. mygulfport.us Paint a Cat Put your paws together for a cat-themed painting class. Atelier De SoSi hosts a community painting class featuring toe beans, whiskers, and wet food’s biggest fan. Running alongside the gallery’s Feline exhibit, this laid-back community paint class lets participants create their own kitty painting. Atelier de Sosi, 2380 6th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. $49. atelierdesosi.com Hey Mon Get your reggae fix at Sacred Lands with an outdoor concert by Jamaican performer Greg

Roy. Roy, known for story-telling and chill jams, opens the botanical gardens at 7:30 p.m. Arrive at 7 p.m. for an early dinner on the grounds (reservation required; limited seating). Sacred Lands, 1700 Park St. N. 7:30 p.m. $15. 727-3470354 Saturday, January 22 Back Seat Driver Love boating but don’t know a thing about running a boat? Take this class for boating partners who aim to stay safe on the seas. Instructors from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla in Gulfport will teach people what to do if the captain gets incapacitated and can’t drive the boat. Learn how to call for help, stop the boat and keep yourself safe. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 727-893-1074 Read My Palm See the Gulfport Casino Ballroom in an entirely different light at the Mind Body Spirit Expo, featuring more than 20 spiritual wellness vendors and more than 50 physics and mediums.

Whether you need a tea leaf reading or a lotion made from bamboo,

Things To Do continued on page 26

Thursday, January 20 Gulfport Boulevard Block Party Everyone is invited to the Third Thursday Gulfport Boulevard Block Party. Shop all four bustling locations, Sail Market(ing), The Boulevard Shoppe, Beach House 5317 and Thai Orchids & Leis without going farther than a block. 5317 Gulfport Blvd. S. 3-7 p.m. fb.com/ visitgulfportfl

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

We have live entertainment every day and Open Mic every Tuesday, located in the Village Courtyard.

Jan 20 Wes Loper 6-9pm Jan 21 Tony and Sal 7-10pm Jan 22 Bud Good 3-6pm Rob Pieniak 7-10pm

Friday, January 21 Student Night On Fridays at Caddy’s in Gulfport, a student ID gets you cheap drinks and bites. Caddy’s offers $10 all you can drink, 25% off appetizers, and – of course

Jan 23 Original Bandingo 8-10pm Jan 24 Team Trivia 8:30-10pm Jan 25 Open Mic 7-10pm

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Jan 26 Hot Tonic

6-9pm

25

Things To Do continued from page 25 you’ll find it here. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. mygulfport.us

Church of Gulfport, 2728 53rd St. S. 5-7 p.m. (takeout only) $11. gulfportumc.org Tuesday, January 25

Tokyo Dreaming Experience a Japanese fire dance, a symbol of good luck in the New Year, brought to you by the artists of Creative Clay. The performance celebrates 60 years of a sister city partnership between St. Petersburg and Takamatsu. Choreographers Helen Hansen French and Paula Kramer worked with Creative Clay students to prepare for the traditional dance. St. Petersburg Museum of History, 335 2nd Ave. NE., St. Petersburg. 2-3 p.m. creativeclay. org Hog Heaven Spend a Saturday chowing down on pulled pork, hickory-smoked by Kansas City Barbecue Society competitor and judge John Verville. A ticket gets meat lovers a plate of pork, baked beans, potato salad, bread, and dessert. Get your comfy pants ready. First United Methodist

Caddy’s Class A free one-hour yoga class right on the beach, steps away from Caddy’s on Treasure Island.

Nancy leads the class, and yogis should bring a mat or a towel and “let worries drift away while looking out onto the Gulf of Mexico.”

Caddy’s on Treasure Island, 9000 W Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island. 9 a.m.

727-360-4993.

Art Therapy Thursdays If Gulfport artist Kat Silver knows anything, she knows the healing power of art. Join Silver for the weekly Creative Chaos art therapy class program where participants “experiment with different art materials, guided imagery, and connect to creative sources.” This class rolls for six weeks with drop-ins welcome. All Things St. Pete, 4116 8th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 1-3 p.m. $180. artistkatsilver.com

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Wednesday, January 26 Give-a-Day Show support for Tampa Bay natural wildlife and waterways with the Give-A-Day for the Bay cleanup. This community effort will focus on wood and plastic debris removal from the green space around St. Petersburg College’s STEM Center. Bagged lunch included. Bay Pines STEM Center, 4723 Bay Pines Terrace, St. Petersburg. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. kpbcares.org

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

memorial In Memory of A Wonderful Friend – Stone Handy We are extremely saddened to hear of Stone Handy’s passing.

We were fortunate enough to meet Stone a number of years ago at an open mic night at Mangias. We very quickly became friends and Stone welcomed us into his life, as we welcomed him into our lives.

We had a lot of wonderful times together during our trips to Gulfport. We were thrilled when Stone came to visit us in Truro, Nova Scotia in 2017. We were very proud to show him our hometown and we had a blast together.

Unfortunately due to health issues, followed by the pandemic, we never got to see each other again. But, we did stay in contact by telephone.

To Stone’s son Jerry and all his Gulfportian friends, many of whom we had the pleasure of meeting, our deepest condolences.

Stone, we love you. We will miss your friendship. Goodbye for now, until we meet again, when we will be, in your words, “sittin’ on the back porch talkin shit.”

Love, Peggy and Spud, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada

worship Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church 2728 53rd St. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 (Entrance on 28th Ave.)

Where ALL are welcome at the Lord’s table.

Come and See...

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

Unitarian Universalist During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

Beth-El Shalom

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00

Messianic Congregation

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

“You need not think alike to love alike.”

- Francis David, 1534

uuunited.org

Paradise Lutheran Church

on Treasure Island

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

United Fellowship

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION 330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach (Blind Pass Road at 85th Avenue)

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist

Sunday Service

10am with Holy Communion

727-360-5739

paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

“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.”

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

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

Sunday Services 10AM Miss en Español: Domingos 12PM

Affiliated with

St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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.

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

27

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Electrical

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.

Heat / Air Conditioning

MAYNARD ELECTRIC • Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Circuits Added • Phone Wiring • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More 24 Hour Service

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT!

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

Caregivers

CAROL’S ERRANDS & MORE

727-687-7999

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

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

Cleaning / Housekeeping

EC-13008313

A-Z CLEANING SERVICES Homes-Condos.

Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly. Call Lucy 727735-8393.

Computer Service JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair – $40 per visit/hr – 727-643-0697, jmswebservices.com

COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838

In-Home Services: Internet Security, Training, Virus & SpyWare Removal, Maintenance & Repair, Data Recovery. (PC & Mac).

Gulfport Computer Repair

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

Home & Condo Maintenance

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.

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

D.C. STRONG

Home & condo maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work, A-Z • Insured. Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530

Home Improvement

TAMPA BAY FLOORS & CARPETS CLEANING SOLUTION

We offer Marble, Vinyl, Ceramic, Grout Cleaning, All Kinds of Carpet Cleaning. We Clean Upholstery, Also Power washing. We Cover All Your Cleaning Needs. We are fully Equipped We are 24:7 Emergency Flooding Service COVID Fumigation Available 727623-7948 Or 813-750-9851

D.C. STRONG

Fast Friendly Service

Painting, Pressure Washing, Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work A-Z • Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530 • Insured

2321 49th St S

ROOF, HOUSE OR DRIVEWAY

727-388-3493

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

28

CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

“Same rates seven days a week”

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

Get your home pressure washed by a Professional before March 20, 2022. Reasonable prices, no down payments required.

Licensed and insured with over 10 years of experience. For more information call Donald Denton at 276-724-0121

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Lawn & Landscape

Painting

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

BYRON JOHNSON PAINTING PLUS, INC.

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

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 Plumbing

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

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

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

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 Miscellaneous Service THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out, recycling and organizing, and we do mulching and weeding! Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867.

Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

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

POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE 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. The person must say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After 3 days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted, without mentioning the favor, only your initials should appear at the bottom.

POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE 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. The person must say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After 3 days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted, without mentioning the favor, only your initials should appear at the bottom. TTD4MDAD

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Card of Thanks

For Sale

Help Wanted

WANTED: MANUAL MACHINIST

Machinist wanted to produce precision parts fabricated from materials including steel, stainless and copper. Requirements: 5 – 10 years of manual machinist experience, knowledge of drill presses, milling machines, lathes, and grinders.

Experience interpreting complex drawings. Send resume to dvalloreo@farmermold.com Positions Wanted EXPERIENCED LIVE-IN CAREGIVER AVAILABLE Experienced, dependable, Caregiver seeks a live-in position. Driving, Lifting, Cooking, Cleaning, Personal Care. Available immediately. References available.

The daughter of her last client is gifting this ad to honor the tender care she provided him. Maria 727-337-5656

RECLINER FOR SALE Brown leather, Electric, One year old. $200. Men’s Nike Air Monarch tennis shoes, new and used. sizes 7 / 7.5 / 8. In black and in White with blue trim. $20 for the new, $10 for used. (Reg price $70). Used Clarinet $75. Call Melinda 727-776-9739

NEW YORK STYLE HOT DOG CART

Operational, Currently Licensed, New hot water heater, umbrella, signs, insert pans and all equipment included. $1700 or best offer. Call Ken 727-430-3550 SALON PROFESSIONAL 2 Professional Hair Dryers and 2 Salon Roller Trays 727798-9006

Furniture & Appliances FOR SALE Executive Office desk, Mahogany, 7 drawers with Glass Top. $75. Tiffany style lamp, oblong, good over counter or bar. $40. Boy's bike, great condition. $40.

Call Ana: 727-367-2092

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE! THEGABBER.COM theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

29

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

Happy Talk

HAVING TO DOWNSIZE

Free to first come. Beautiful hide-a-bed couch and chair and many other items. First floor apartment near Rec. Center. Easy move. Call Phil 303-744-7703

Pets & Animals

WAG WALK AND WATCH

Independent local Pet walker and sitter who is reasonably priced! References gladly provided Call Miranda at 551-795-6827

Wanted

BUYING VINTAGE COSTUME JEWELRY I MAKE HOUSECALLS

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

Real Estate For Sale

1.3 ACRE LOT NEAR WESLEY CHAPEL

$65,000

8046 STIMIE AVE.N

$775,000 SOLD

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com

Nelda Hamm

Place your classified line ads online!

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

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

Call me to see how I can get your home sold too. #312 Kenmore, Town Shores EXCEPTIONALLY REMODELED 1 Bd / 1 Ba • $240,000 #3120 Beach Blvd. South #4 Beautifully remodeled 1 Bd / 1 Ba in the heart of Gulfport

Real Estate For Rent

FOR RENT One bedroom/One Bath apartment unfurnished. Gulfport Blvd. Call Rick 727-418-0086 Real Estate Wanted WANTED ASAP 1 room / 1 Bath. Pinellas Park Area. I'm on HUD. Call Barry 727-657-6582

Submit your events online at

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theGabber.com

Their life deserves more than five lines.

We make sharing it affordable.

Remember your loved ones forever with us.

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

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theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

solution

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

The 2022 The Gabber’s Pet Calendar 2022 Pet Calendar

This pet calendar doesn't feature only cats and dogs – beloved pets of all types grace these gorgeous pages.

A portion of the proceeds go to Friends of Strays.

2908-B Beach Blvd. S. • Gulfport, FL 33707 727-321-6965 • thegabber.com

Calendars are available for $10 at: Gulfport Beach Bazaar 3115 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022

Gabber Office

2908-B, Beach Blvd S, Gulfport 31

"It's life changing."

A local clinic is helping cancer survivors live their lives free from constant pain and suffering associated with peripheral neuropathy.

Irreversible is not a term you want to hear from your Doctor but it is common when you have been diagnosed with chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).

Ed of St. Petersburg, FL survived testicular cancer only to be living life in constant pain. He felt as though he was walking on pins and needles, becoming weaker and weaker everyday. "I was beginning to be worried that one day I would be wheelchair bound."

Nearly half of patients who undergo chemotherapy will develop CIPN. Chemotherapy meds travel throughout the body and attack cancer cells; sadly they can also cause severe damage to healthy nerves. CIPN can begin within weeks of starting treatment and can worsen as treatment continues. A high number of really unfortunate people with be forced to endure the symptoms associated with CIPN for months, or even years after they have completed chemotherapy.

When asked how CIPN was affecting his quality of life, Ed responded, "It was difficult to even walk up and down stairs and do things that I normally took for granted."

The most common symptoms include: pain, tingling, burning, weakness, numbness in arms, hands, legs or feet sudden, sharp, stabbing or shocking pain sensations loss of touch sensation clumsiness and trouble using hands to pick up objects or fasten clothing loss of balance and falling.

For some, their nerves will recover over time but for most the nerve damage is "irreversible." Ed was told this by different doctors and specialists. Then he made a call to Dr. Gibbons at Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine (AAIM).

Dr. Gibbons uses the time tested science of acupuncture to assist in increasing blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.

After a series of treatments Ed was taking stairs with stride. Again and again we see people who have tried "everything" but have had little or no results.

To schedule a consultation and evaluation with Dr. Gibbons call 727-272-3587.

visit achieveacuim.com to learn more 32

theGabber.com | January 20, 2022 - January 26, 2022