The Gabber: January 21, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2692

January 21 - January 27, 2021

LARRY BUSBY

Tampa Bay’s Aquatic Preserves Get New ‘Friends’ P.8 Drug Lab Explosion P.10

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Reporters & Contributors Abby Baker, News & Events Jeff Donnelly, Theater Sheree Greer, Advice June Johns, Photographer Jon Kile, Columnist Ryan McGahan, News Gabrielle Reeder, Gabs & News Nano Riley, Environment Jen Ring, Food & Culture Lynn Taylor, Literary Arts

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

voices Special Thank You to the PCSO Dear Editor: Last Tuesday my grandmother’s purse was stolen from her gift table that her church does every Tuesday in front of the South Pasadena Walmart. I just wanted to publicly thank the Pinellas County Sheriffs Department for their prompt and loving care they gave her (she is 93). They searched for quite a bit of time and were able to find and arrest the suspect. They then called my grandmother to come and pick up her purse. As you can imagine everything of importance was in her purse – license, credit/debit cards, check book, social security information etc.

Not only did the police find it but they were also able to keep her calm and helped explain what she needed to do. In such a time of discord it is so heartwarming that they showed her as much patience and love that we would. – Rachel Watts

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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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

news A Land Worth More Than Remembering:

A two-part special on a unique tract of land in Pinellas

PINELLAS PIONEER ARCHIVE

Precious Lands and Florida Dreams Our region’s natural beauty attracted many of us or our ancestors to Pinellas County. This week, we learn about Gladys Douglas, a woman who moved here more than 70 years ago, married into a pioneer family, and enjoyed her version of the “Florida dream” on acreage near Dunedin. Next week, we discover how a community has mobilized to preserve these lands for future generations to enjoy.

Patrick D. Smith published “A Land Remembered” in 1984. One of the most popular Florida fiction titles ever released, this novel describes changes his characters witnessed across generations as barely inhabited areas along peninsular Florida became ranches, homesteads and farmsteads, with some of these lands later transforming into sizeable settlements. Smith waxed nostalgic as he focused on what we have lost after we tamed the frontier.

As the Florida land boom kicked into high gear after World War I, developers touted the climate and environment of “Peerless Pinellas,”

then an agricultural powerhouse replete with groves and farmlands.

They sought to attract newcomers and investors at a time when the 1920 federal census counted only 28,265 residents in the entire county.

A century later, urbanization has transformed the landscape. More than 12,300 people call Gulfport home today. With the county’s population now approaching 975,000, pavement, parking lots and subdivisions have replaced many of the green spaces and dream places we once cherished.

A Pioneer Tradition Members of the Douglas family left Scotland during the 1880s. They arrived at a tiny settlement then known as Jonesboro. Natives of Edinburgh, they led efforts to rename this outpost north of Clearwater with the Gaelic name for their Scottish hometown, Dunedin. They acquired land, farmed and established businesses in the area.

A tract along Keene Road near Dunedin has remained in the family’s hands for generations. Currently known as the Douglas property,

PINELLAS PIONEER ARCHIVE

By James A. Schnur

this largely undeveloped land in unincorporated Pinellas maintains a natural essence rarely found in this area today. This property occupies 43.44 acres located north of Virginia Avenue, south of Dunedin Cemetery, and adjacent to public lands managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District that include Jerry Lake.

Settlers first congregated near the Douglas property in the 1870s.

A man named Bart Brown donated a 10-acre tract just north of this land in 1871 for a Presbyterian church and cemetery. Worshipers later moved their sanctuary to Andrews Memorial Chapel when that structure opened at a different location in 1878. Citrus groves and agricultural fields covered parts of the Douglas property during the 20th century.

Gladys Douglas Continues the Tradition Gladys Elaine Nelson was born in Minneapolis on July 24, 1924. She moved to Washington, D.C. shortly after finishing high school. There, she Land continued on page 6

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acquired business and administrative skills while working at various venues, including the Pentagon.

Florida’s natural beauty first captured Gladys’s heart during a two-week boat trip in the late 1940s. This journey began at Chesapeake Bay, followed the Intracoastal Waterway along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, and brought her to the Tampa Bay area.

In those days, abundant schools of fish swam in the area’s waters and boaters could enjoy the fragrance of orange blossoms from more than a mile offshore.

Gladys moved to Clearwater in 1950.

She served the Junior Women’s Club of Clearwater as its organizing president in the mid-1950s and volunteered in leadership roles for other organizations in the Dunedin and Clearwater areas.

She became a high-ranking sales agent at the Douglas Arms Construction Company, a business run by members of the Douglas pioneer family in Dunedin.

Gladys married Stanley Royal Douglas in 1965. They enjoyed living on and carefully managing this parcel. Gladys Douglas engaged in community uplift, philanthropy and local business activities. After Stanley passed away in 1988, she married Robert “Bob” Hackworth.

A private person who cherished and preserved these lands, Gladys won many honors for her civic activism. She led efforts to revive downtown Dunedin through her gift of the historic Bank of Dunedin building to the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, the development

PINELLAS PIONEER ARCHIVE

Land continued from page 5

of Shops at Douglas Village, and other initiatives. She passed away four days after her 95th birthday on July 28, 2019 and is buried at the Dunedin Cemetery next to this property.

After her death, the Douglas property’s outlook seemed imperiled.

Developers licked their chops as this unique parcel appeared on the market. A firm entered into a contract to develop the land, but withdrew its offer last year. Next week, we will learn about this land, a place worth more than remembering.

(Editor’s Note: The Pinellas Community Foundation has taken a leadership role in preserving the Douglas property.

For more information about this organization’s initiative, visit pinellascf. org/save-the-gladys-douglas-preserve.)

A graduate of Boca Ciega High School, James A. Schnur served as president of the Pinellas County Historical Society and as a member of the Pinellas County Historical Commission. He has authored four photographic history books on the cities of Largo, Madeira Beach, St. Petersburg and Seminole, as well as a history of Pinellas County.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

Youth Gardening Club Begins to Bloom It may not be the clamoring group of 30 kids that might have been, but the Youth Gardening Club at the Garden Club of St. Petersburg still plans to make a big impact among it’s young growers.

Garden Club members Sandee Doherty and Sally Farr want to extend their knowledge to a younger generation, and this is the year they get the chance.

“Young people are our future, and our future gardeners,” youth coordinator Doherty said. “Hopefully in doing these sorts of things they will continue to garden, host community gardens, and just know where their food is coming from.”

Beginning Sunday, January, 31 from 1 to 3:30 p.m., the group will host seven kids, ages seven to 12, each month until May. “We’re outdoors, of course, limiting the number of kids, making sure there is enough space in the garden,” Farr, chairman of Youth Programming said. “Hopefully by this time next year it can be even bigger and better.”

The group will meet in the Coconut Park at the Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Drive S. The space, allotted by the garden club, is a butterfly garden. In a little over five months it will be overflowing with pollinator-attracting plants, hence the theme “Garden Helpers.”

“Even though it’s a smaller group, the kids involved are going to be a part of something very special,” Doherty said.

Farr and Doherty originally started their quest to educate young gardeners in January of last year, but with the

Gulfport gathers

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The Youth Gardening Club at the Garden Club of St. Petersburg is opening their circle to a small group of kids on Sunday, January 31. The group began last year, but was quickly canceled due to the pandemic.

pandemic, it was stopped after just two meetings.

This year, with more information and a widespread vaccine around the corner, the club will grow in a tiny corner of St. Petersburg, safely.

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Tampa Bay’s Aquatic Preserves Get New ‘Friends’

By Nano Riley

TERRY FORTNER

Dignitaries and environmentalists gathered at Millennium Park on the shores of Boca Ciega Bay to celebrate the state’s 14th aquatic citizen support organization.

According to Politifact, nearly 1,000 people move to Florida every day – and have been moving to the state in droves for decades. All this human activity leaves an oversized environmental footprint. Nearly fifty percent of these folks choose to live near the coast, directly impacting our coastal waters and amplifying the need for their protection. The new Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves, Inc., aims to do just that.

Currently Tampa Bay has four

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aquatic preserves: Boca Ciega Bay Aquatic Preserve was the first, formed in 1969; followed by Pinellas Aquatic Preserve, in 1972; and later, Terra Ceia in Manatee County; and Hillsborough’s Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. Now advocates for these sanctuaries will operate in unison as the Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves, Inc, the state’s latest citizen support organization (CSO).

The newly formed CSO celebrated its beginning in December as

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dignitaries and environmentalists gathered at Millennium Park on the shores of Boca Ciega Bay to celebrate the state’s 14th aquatic CSO. “This new CSO is founded according to DEP standards and meets all guidelines,” said Terry Fortner, who has been working on the new CSO since 2019 when the idea emerged to combine the existing preserves.

“It offers a lot of valuable opportunities and entitles us to money from the DEP’s aquatic preserve funds,” she said.

According to DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein, citizen support organizations are instrumental in helping the department preserve Florida’s natural landscape by maintaining natural resources and engaging residents in local conservation activities, such as beach cleanups and seagrass planting.

The newest in the DEP’s panoply of CSOs, the idea for the fledgling group first emerged in September 2019, when the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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founding of the Boca Ciega Aquatic Preserve.

Former legislator Roger Wilson – who sponsored creating the first legislatively designated aquatic preserve, Boca Ciega Aquatic Preserve, in 1969 – signed the agreement between DEP and the CSO. Wilson, who grew up in John’s Pass when it was a real fishing village, lobbied for the 1969 aquatic preserve as a freshman legislator.

He was dismayed at the unregulated dredge and fill that was rampant in the 1950s. Boca Ciega Bay was almost destroyed by the creation of Tierra Verde and the constructed fingers with ranch houses that ring the small bay.

“Roger is the founding president (of the new CSO), but Rose Poynor is the first official president of the preserves,” said Fortner. “Rose was formerly a biologist at the DEP.” Fortner also has deep roots in Pinellas County. Her grandmother, Myrtle Scharrer Betz, born in 1895 and raised on Caladesi Island, wrote a popular memoir of those halcyon days, titled “Yesteryear I lived in Paradise.” Myrtle imbued Fortner with a love for natural Florida that fuels her activism.

As an advocate for coastal preservation, she shepherded the new CSO from its first glimmer in 2019.

“I’m just the facilitator,” said Fortner, adding that she doesn’t plan to play an active role other than as a supporter. “We have a great manager, Dr. Randy Runnels.

Rose Poynor, scientist, educator, who will serve as founding president for FTBAP, added her signature.

With a staff of two, Dr. Runnels will provide all the information about the preserve.”

The Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves encompasses 380,000 acres of coastal waters in Florida’s most densely developed areas of Pinellas County and Boca Ciega Bay, as well as less developed areas of Terra Ceia and Cockroach Bay. This

CSO is dedicated to work hand in hand with DEP “to restore and enhance the aquatic preserves through research, resource management and education while also providing recreational opportunities.”

For more about the Friends of Tampa Bay Aquatic preserves, find them on Facebook or visit tampabayaquaticpreserves.org.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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St. Petersburg Apartments Evacuated After Drug Lab Explosion

By Abby Baker

ALTA MAR AT BROADWATER APARTMENTS

Authorities evacuated 11 units in the Alta Mar apartments in St. Petersburg after a drug lab explosion on Wednesday, January 13.

Authorities evacuated a building at the St. Petersburg Alta Mar at Broadwater Apartments on Wednesday, January 13 following an explosion inside one of the units.

A home drug lab was the cause of the explosion, according to St. Petersburg police.

Police evacuated the building,

located at 3906 34th Terrace S., at 3 p.m. on Wednesday. St. Petersburg does not have an explosion specialist team, so a Tampa bomb squad investigated the 11 other units in the building to determine if there was any further threat.

Residents were not immediately able to return to their homes due to

the risk of “volatile chemicals.”

“The fire department released the building back to the management company this morning,” St. Petersburg police spokeswoman Sandra Bentil told the Gabber on Wednesday. “That is the only update at the moment.”

The investigation is ongoing.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

Gulfport Gets New Buttonwood for Arbor Day About 30 masked Gulfport residents and officials assisted in planting a new buttonwood tree at 4526 29th Ave. S, right next to the Gulfport Marina on Friday, January 15. The ceremony for Arbor Day, celebrated the importance of trees in the environment.

“We are really limited in what we can choose for a tree, right here, as evidenced by the flood we just had,” Toffer Ross, Gulfport’s city horticulturist, said.

Tim Connor, Gulfport’s Parks and Facilities Superintendent, asked Ross to find a tree that would survive in the salty environment by the marina.

According to Ross, a buttonwood is the perfect candidate for the area; the hardy trees tolerate salt and local weather conditions well.

Children from the School Year Child Care Program of Gulfport gave readings about Arbor Day, planting trees and the importance of the environment. Attendees received free sabal palm and sweet gum saplings.

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Gulfport city staff gather around the Buttonwood tree to celebrate Arbor Day.

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Renaissance Dad: Go Out and Play

By Jon Kile

JON KILE

As a parent I’ve noticed something strange and exciting as the pandemic has worn on. Children roaming, unfettered, in the streets.

“Honey, two kids just rode their bikes past the house with no adults

anywhere in sight!” I’ll yell over the top of my newspaper. (OK, I’m lying. I don’t really call my wife “Honey,” and they don’t print newspapers anymore.)

But the phenomenon is real. Ten months into the pandemic, many kids,

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including ours, haven’t darkened the door of a schoolhouse since March.

If kids aren’t in school, they certainly aren’t participating in afterschool programs designed to keep them safe from the dangers of the streets.

But let’s face it, in the winter of the pandemic, my kids might be safer crossing US-19 at 4 p.m. than they are asking me for their eleventh snack of the day.

If there are positive things to come out of the pandemic (and there are a few), it’s the movement away from overscheduling our children with too many activities and instead offering them a little independence. For instance, the other day some neighbors who are “COVID careful” and wear masks asked us if we wanted to come down and play badminton. The answer to that question would normally be, “Of course not! Who plays badminton?”

But our answer was, “Of course! It’ll be just like one of those Jane Austen period movies where the characters play some old fashioned sport no one really understands!” Then, we sent our kids down ahead of us.

And we didn’t move. We sent them four blocks away, unsupervised, and just sat in our quiet house for a solid 30 minutes. And no one kidnapped our children. They crossed streets safely.

And they played with their friends, not wondering where their parents were.

OK, I lied about that last part. In reality they kept texting us asking, “Where are you?” No, they don’t have phones. But we did give them each a “Dick Tracy” watch that allows us to know their location on a map and lets us call and text back and forth. It was really a gift to ourselves. Thanks to modern technology we can give our 11-year-old and 8-year-old a little freedom, thus giving ourselves a little sanity. You’re likely to see my wife and I at a sidewalk cafe having a cup of coffee together without our offspring in sight. I daresay it’s more fun than paying a teenager $15 per hour like we did in the olden days. In the era of COVID, without places to go at night, I may never pay a babysitter again!

I acknowledge that a lot of parents can’t leave their kids at home because they’ll end up killing each other. Some siblings fight like cats and dogs. In the pandemic our kids have become the sweetest of best friends. A long time ago I taught our kids that they need to be each others’ allies, and it has had a huge impact on the peace in our home. Sure, they can

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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argue, but they’re too smart to have an argument without a parent there to crown a winner. Otherwise it’s a wasted fight.

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the oldest one can babysit. But take heart in knowing that everyone was already social distancing from you anyway.

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Business Business Beat: Boat Rides, Sammies and the End of Car Shops Era

By Abby Baker

A Heartfelt Farewell to Ahern’s Auto It was 1996 when Jim Ahern opened the doors to Ahern’s Auto Care in South Pasadena and on Friday, January 8, 2021, Janey AhernBrubaker locked them for the last time. “It breaks my heart. I’ve had customers get really upset, but I just wanted to leave on a good note,�

Ahern-Brubaker said. “It was this or renew a three-year lease and I just don’t have the heart to.�

Frequently decked out in HarleyDavidson gear, Ahern-Brubaker took on the full load of the business, located at 6763 Gulfport Blvd S., when her husband passed away from lung disease in 2017. “He was certainly a fixture here,�

Ahern-Brubaker said. “Everyone that comes in here has a good memory of Jim; he’d give people rides home, he’d stop to help anyone on the side

of the road – it didn’t matter.�

The pair met in 2005, and AhernBrubaker barely accepted the proposition of a first date because of Ahern’s cigarette habit and lack of a boat.

In 2006, they were married.

She never imagined she’d have to run their automotive business alone.

Ahern-Brubaker had not worked at the shop until Jim’s passing, but with the help of Head Technician Dennis Kerr and Service Manager Sherman May, the show went on.

When May passed away in 2018, it left just Ahern-Brubaker and Kerr to run the “always busy� shop alone. “This has just been here a long time,� Kerr said. “Jim and I had a good relationship – I picked on him and he picked on me.�

Kerr, who’s worked with the auto shop for the past 22 years, planned to retire in February of this year, and with the ending of the lease, came a final decision.

“I can’t afford to not have Dennis,�

Ahern-Brubaker said. “He wanted to retire, I wanted to retire, and I don’t own the land or the building, just the business.�

It is the end of a 25-year era of car repairs and community connections.

According to Brubaker-Ahern, the owner of 1 Stop Auto & Service signed a lease on the property, though there’s no word yet on an opening date for the new shop. “I gave away the last oil change on Friday for free,� Brubaker-Ahern said. “It’s sad, but we’re leaving on a good note.�

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

Eating It Up: Salty’s Sandwich Shop Shore Boulevard South got a little saltier this Wednesday, January 13, with the opening of Salty’s Sandwich Bar. Similar to it’s counterpart, Salty’s Gulfport Bar, the orange and blue splashed building is right in the middle of downtown at 3121 Beach Blvd. S. The two Gulfport establishments are run by the same owner, JP Brewer.

However, the sandwich bar is less a traditional drinkery and more a fastpaced restaurant with a couple of sipping options.

“We have a good selection of wines and craft beers, along with a couple of canned cocktails, which are liquorbased drinks,” Salty’s Sandwich Bar’s announced on their Facebook page.

ABBY BAKER

Municipal Marina at 4630 29th Ave. S, the boat takes up to six people on private tours around the area.

Perhaps opening three months before the coronavirus struck the U.S. wasn’t great timing for his charter trip venture, Aqua Sol Adventures, to set sail, but that didn’t stop the former detective.

“My wife looked at me at one point and said, ‘Are you sure you want to do this?’” Hutsko said. “Of course I did.”

Even with the shutdowns, Hutsko drove his charter out to sea over 100 times in the past year.

“We do snorkeling trips, paddle boarding, we check out the islands out there, see manatees,” Hutsko said.

“I let people tell me what they want to do – I just drive the boat.”

It wasn’t always boatside fun.

“This was a brainstorm of mine from about seven to eight years ago,” Hutsko said. “Then my dad got sick with cancer and I realized I needed to be with my family.”

With the added complication of a leg injury, Hutsko decided to leave the police force four years before he was set to retire.

“I loved what I did, but I didn’t feel like it was fair to me or them to stay,” Hutsko said.

Hutsko has fond memories of his six years with the department.

“The people of Gulfport are so amazing and I really saw this when I worked on the force,” Hutsko said.

“I wanted to stay in this area for that very reason, and the people of Gulfport are still being good to me.” aquasoladventures.com

Head technician Dennis Kerr and Janet Brubaker-Ahern were the last two employees at South Pasadena’s Ahern’s Auto Care. The shop officially closed on Friday, January 8 after 25 years of service.

The shop’s Facebook already has more than 2,000 followers.

Quirky options such as fried bologna and Bahn Mi Pork Belly sandwich might be the secret to Salty’s quick success.

“Gulfport’s newest restaurant

serving up awesome, fresh deli and specialty sandwiches, along with many other house made items by Chef Olive,” their Facebook page reads. fb.com/saltyssandwichbar

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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15

Plastic: An Unwelcome Holiday Gift

By Gabrielle Reeder

SHELLY WILSON

Last week, Gulfport residents and visitors noticed a little extra “flair” on the downtown streets – varying lengths of green plastic strips less than an inch wide. Dozens littered the ground underneath light poles, and accumulated on sidewalks and down by the water. The mystery didn’t take long to solve.

Each year, the city adds holiday garland and light displays in downtown Gulfport from November until the beginning of January. The City of Gulfport contracts Clark Sales Display Company to provide

the decoration.

During the removal of these garlands early last week, the green plastic separated from the light fixtures and littered the area, according to Justin Shea, cultural facilities events supervisor for the city.

“We’re exploring the ideas of what to do to eliminate the plastic,” Shea said. “Do we wrap the poles in a ribbon type material? So if there are particles that fall off, it doesn’t get into the environment?”

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Tim Connor alerted Shea that two city workers spent three hours cleaning up the plastic bits late Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.

Shea told the Gabber he reached out to Clark Sales twice to inform them that their crew left harmful plastic remnants in the streets – plastic that could end up in the bay.

The city intends to find a solution for the unwelcome holiday “gifts.”

“It’s very important that the city stays conscientious about protecting the environment,” Shea said.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

dear gabby: neighbors, dating outdoors and dream jobs

I’ve lived in my house now for about five years. I love my neighborhood and I always wave to the neighbors – the trouble is I’ve never really met them! I always meant to introduce myself when I moved in, but five years on.... It seems a little late for that. Will they think I’m weird if I do it now? What do you suggest?

You know what would be weird? If your neighbors were thinking the exact same thing! What if they are thinking how weird they’d seem if, after all these years of waving and smiling, they wanted to finally meet?

Then, you both are going into a sixth year, waving and smiling and secretly fearing being weird if you introduced yourselves. Let’s dismantle the secret, and most likely nonexistent, weirdness. If it’s on your mind and heart to introduce yourself, go for it! I imagine steps toward more kindness, more community and more friendship are more welcome than they’ve ever been before.

I’m seeing someone I met on a dating app about a month ago. Things are going well, considering we live in plague times, but I’m running out of date options! Neither of us are comfortable going to restaurants, so we’ve been cooking at our homes, and doing take-out. But we’d like to go out somewhere… What are some of your best ideas for “outdoor” dating?

Outdoors is my favorite place. And living in Tampa Bay, there is no shortage of cool, interesting ways to engage with nature. Just recently, I visited Boyd Hill Nature Preserve in St. Pete. I’ve driven by it so many times and finally went. It’s AMAZING. You get so deep into the trails, you forget you’re right off 31st Street!

Consider searching for state parks and nature preserves that are within a one-hour radius of where you both live (you can up the distance when

you two graduate to long road trips).

You can make a list of all the ones that sound or look interesting, then get to planning those dates. You can be active and do a hike or walk. You can even take something you would do indoors like a puzzle or board game to play at the park. Whether you both meet up to walk, hike, picnic lunch, play a game or even just meet for a romantic sunrise or sunset outing, let Florida’s natural beauty be a backdrop to memorable conversation, unique sights and fun moments of togetherness.

I’ve been at the same job at a bank for 15 years. The pay is very good, and the benefits are too. The problem is, I am burned out and I’m starting to hate it. Recently I got the opportunity to interview for a total dream job at a nonprofit. The only problem is it’s a lot less pay. I don’t have any kids, and I could probably swing the pay

cut, but it will be stressful, and require some life changes. Do I go for it or play it safe?

I had a whole other career before becoming a writer. I was a consultant for a large technology firm. The pay was excellent. The benefits out of this world. I had a corporate AmEx card! Yet, my heart wasn’t in the work. I yearned for a life doing the thing I love most in the world: writing. I quit that consultant job in 2005 and haven’t looked back.

Sure, I could be making more money, and life as a writer is less “secure” than a corporate gig. But I’ve never been happier. Happiness is the part of my life that I have deemed non-negotiable. I can put limits on my spending, but I do not want to put limits on my joy. Ask yourself where you’d be most happy, where you’ll get the most fulfillment, and lead with joy. If it means taking a risk on yourself, go for it. My Pops would call that “betting on a winner.”

A Milwaukee native, Sheree L. Greer is a local textbased artist, educator and taco lover. In 2014, she founded Kitchen Table Literary Arts to showcase and support the work of Black women and women of color writers and is the author of two novels, “Let the Lover Be” and “A Return to Arms.”

The Gabber’s semi-regular advice column, Dear Gabby, is here by reader demand. Have a question or a conundrum for Gabby? There’s no problem too small for our resident advisor. Send your questions – they can be anonymous – to deargabby@ thegabber.com.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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Gulfport Thrifters Come Out for Citywide Sale

By Abby Baker

ABBY BAKER

Blake Jones adding finishing touches to a tin rooster before a final sale at his yard sale across from Chase Dog Park in Gulfport. “I’m just trying to freshen it up,� Jones said. “Bring some new life to her.�

Shoppers at Gulfport’s citywide yard sale picked over thousands of treasures at more than 100 homes on Saturday, January 16. From sunup to sundown, residents offered their wares in the winter edition of the city’s permit-free sale.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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The pretty, petite pup is just 10 months old, and a bit shy at first, but it doesn’t take much for Copi to come out of her shell.

She loves playing with her doggy friends and will make a great addition to just about any family. Copi is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

MADE IN AMERICA

19

things to do

DF

V

MR

An Artsy Weekend, Markets and More

By Abby Baker

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

Thursday, January 21 - Thursday, January 28 Let’s Go: Vincent Van Gogh Exhibition Come on postImpressionism nerds, immerse yourself in “Van Gogh Alive,” a Vincent Van Gogh art installation at the Dali Museum. Walk into “The Starry Night” and stare back at a wall of Van Gogh super-sized portraits. This large-scale 3,000 piece exhibition will be on display until April 11. The Salvador Dalí Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. $25 MR SD Friday, January 22 Treasure Island Treats: Get Some Fresh Air at Friday’s Market If there’s one thing Pinellas has no shortage of, it’s outdoor marketplaces. From December through April, the Treasure Island Friday Morning Market will feature, you guessed it, local art, produce, foods, flowers, plants and “interesting flea items.” This is an open air outdoor bazaar so mask up, and come out. Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave., Treasure Island. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. MR SD DF

20

Friday, January 22 Florida-Friendly Friday: Rainwater Harvesting When it rains, it pours.

Tampa Bay and surrounding areas can average 50-60 inches of rain annually, so why not take advantage of this aspect of the Sunshine State? Expert Jonathan Prieto will explore moneywise approaches for preventing runoff, reducing water pollution and harvesting rainwater. Pinellas County residents can get free rain barrels. sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/ 9:30-10:30 a.m. VT Friday January 22 - Sunday, January 24 Three Days of Fun at John’s Pass Arts Weekend Eighty vendors on one boardwalk. From Friday to Sunday John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk will be alive with art, music and local flavors.

There will be live music from local favorites like the Aqua Kittens, Jeff Applefield, The Petty Experience and more. Get in on the fun, support local creators and enjoy this annual seaside event all weekend long. John’s Pass, 12901 Gulf Blvd Madeira Beach 2:30-7 p.m. MR SD DF Saturday, January 23 Sunny Saturdays: St. Pete Saturday Morning Market Shop local, St. Petersburg. Skip the grocery store trip this week and check out this St. Pete

SD

VT

farmers market. Featuring fresh fruits and veggies, soaps, arts and much more, Every weather-permitting Saturday until May. For safety reasons, there is no live music and fewer vendors this year, however you can order online and pick up without leaving your car. saturdaymorningmarket.com, Al Lang Stadium, 230 1st St SE. 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.

MR SD

DF

Saturday, January 23 Arts Village Block Party in Pinellas Park Join art lovers at this block party with a twist, and find your next local masterpiece.

Wait until sunset, and have your pick of sculptures, acrylics and photography all down the blooming mecca that is the Pinellas Park Arts Village. There will be gallery style work at studios such as Pompei Monster Factory and Swartz Art along with 10-feet-apart vendor tents throughout the village. If you’re in it for the festivities, take a stop at Bottles Pub and enjoy live music in their beer garden. Pinellas Arts Village, 5601 Park Blvd N., Pinellas Park. 4-9 p.m. MR SD

DF

Sunday, January 24 For your Soul: Sound Baths and Singing Bowls Treat yourself to a spiritual class that may surprise you.

Sound therapists and yogis will be using instruments such as singing bowls and didgeridoo to promote healing and thoughtfulness, every Sunday. Bring your own yoga mat and an open mind.

Awakening Wellness Center, 2126 1st Ave S., St. Petersburg. 6:30-7:30 p.m. $18

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

worship St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church

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

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3747 34th Street South • St. Petersburg 727-867-7015

Unitarian Universalist ‘Upscale Resale’

316 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach 727-360-5647 Open five days a week: 10am-2pm Mon. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.

Clothes–Collectibles–Gifts Household Goods A Ministry of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Proceeds go back into the community.

United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00 For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net “You need not think alike to love alike.”

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uuunited.org

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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

Sunday's services will include music and communion while you join us from the safety of your car.

Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

21

arts Artist Ya La’Ford Picked for Courageous 12 Memorial Sculpture It’s been more than five decades since 12 Black police officers fought, sued and won a discrimination lawsuit against the St. Petersburg Police Department, and with the green light from the city, the Courageous 12, as they are known, are finally getting a memorial in their honor.

In a December 16 council meeting, the City of St. Petersburg named local artist Ya La’Ford the woman for the job.

La’Ford’s Courageous 12 memorial, a bronze sculpture titled “Badge of Justice,” will stand at the former St. Petersburg Police Department headquarters. The concept is a police badge with an eagle soaring out of its heart. La’Ford weaves Geometric patterns throughout the entire centerpiece, bird and badge both.

“I’m honored and humbled by the city’s commitment to honor the Courageous 12 and to elevate their story,” La’Ford said.

La’Ford grew up in the Bronx before settling in St. Petersburg, and she is no stranger to art projects in the area. La’Ford has painted murals in the Warehouse Arts District, including the “King’s Dream Unite” piece at the historic Manhattan Casino.

“Ultimately, I hope my art can serve as a powerful tool of healing, memory and a light of hope for our community,” Ya La’Ford said.

In 1965, St. Petersburg’s Black police officers were only permitted to patrol predominantly Black neighborhoods, and could not arrest white citizens.

That was before the May 11, 1965, discrimination lawsuit against the St. Petersburg Police Department by 12 of the 15 Black officers who were employed there. They won, and in turn gained the same rights as their white counterparts.

Fifty-five years later, they are getting memorialized.

“The sculpture seeks to highlight the impact of motion, movement, time and in a figurative form that represents the sacrifice, duty and service of the Courageous 12,” Ya La’Ford said.

Currently the sculpture is only in the planning stage, however.

The old police headquarters, sitting on 13th Street North between Central

22

YA LA’FORD

By Abby Baker

“The sculpture also reflects an on-going dialogue relative to what it means to sacrifice and serve others,” La’Ford said on her commissioned Courageous 12 piece.

Avenue and First Avenue North, is slated for redevelopment. Edge Central Development Partners is buying the property from the city for $6.4 million and plans to turn it into a mixed-use center that will include apartments, condos, restaurant and retail space.

The City of St. Petersburg is anticipating that construction will begin in 2021.

“My understanding is that [Edge Central Development Partners] are excited to move forward,” said Ben Kirby, St. Petersburg

Communications Director. “All these pieces seem to be moving ahead; I would anticipate that construction will begin this year.”

The art project won’t begin until construction is well underway, so for now, the bronze memorial centerpiece will have to wait.

“I look forward to working with the developer and city to create an art piece that serves as a tribute to recognize [the Courageous 12’s] dedication, service and sacrifice for St. Petersburg and beyond,” La’Ford said.

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

January Theater Roundup: Better than Netflix

By Jeff Donnelly

Let’s be real: You’ve run out of things to watch on Netflix. And while it’s true that you could try out that new one (or that other new one, or the other…), there are better options – and some are even live and local.

For those looking to get out of the house, St. Petersburg Opera Company continues to offer its POPera series.

This month features Opera’s Greatest Hits, including famous arias and scenes from Puccini’s “La Boheme” and the Act 1 finale of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni.”

“We are certainly always open for more,” Chris Green, Special Projects Manager for the St. Petersburg Opera Company, says. “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.”

The socially distanced live performances “pop-up” around town at varied locations like the SPOC’s Opera Central (2145 First Ave. S) and at Cage Brewing (2001 First Ave. S) on January 30, with tickets ranging from $15 to $200. Other sites include the north lawn of the Museum of Fine Arts (255 Beach Drive, NE) on January 31 with pay-what-you-can admission. stpeteopera.org ‘Get a Job’ at freeFall The freeFall Theatre describes its latest drive-in extravaganza, “Scott and Patti Get a Job!” as an “irreverent and topical look at what it takes to make a buck in this day and age.”

Written and directed by freeFall’s Marketing and Outreach Director Matthew McGee and his frequent

FREEFALL

Opera Keeps Popping

Scott Daniel, left, and Matthew McGee are Scott and Patti at freeFall’s newest drive-in show.

stage partner Scott Daniel, the show features the pair as a well-knownto-locals mother-and-son musical comedy act, “Scott and Patti.” With musical direction by Michael Raabe, the show runs at the company’s outdoor performance space (6099 Central Avenue) from January 24 to February 14 with tickets per vehicle ranging from $75 to $99. freefalltheatre.com Watch It from Home American Stage’s Virtual Stage will host the company’s “21st Century Voices: New Play Festival” livestreaming January 22 to 24. The festival features four play readings by nationally acclaimed playwrights including Cris Eli Blak, Arlene Hutton, Meghan Maugeri and Amber Palmer.

The selected plays each explore

themes of mental illness, wellness and resilience, and each features a post-show discussion with the playwright and a mental health clinician, as well as panel discussions, wellness workshops, a community mental health conversation and more.

“Our hope is that this festival will not only continue our commitment to the development of vital and relevant new works for the stage,” Stephanie Gularte, CEO/Producing Artistic Director, said, “but will also create an open space to allow people to talk about mental health as a way of opening up pathways for support and destigmatizing mental illness.”

Tickets cost $15 per play, or $30 for the weekend; get a whole festival pass for $55. americanstage.org/new-playfestival

Will Gulfport See a Change in Leadership?

Richard Fried: Richard Fried ran for City Council in 2017 and 2019. Fried works in frontline healthcare at Westminster Shores and has lived in Gulfport for 13 years. Fried states he is the person best suited to meet these political times. He describes himself as “honest, ethical, and forthright.”

I am self-funding my campaign. In lieu of donations to my campaign, please donate to NPR, PBS, or WEDU. “SILENCE=CONSENT.”

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

23

Are All Businesses Getting Fair Shake? City Study in Final Phases The City of St. Petersburg may be making some changes in how it contracts with businesses.

For the past two years, the city has contracted with Mason Tillman Associates, Ltd. to conduct a study that will determine if there have been greater challenges for certain business owners doing business with the city.

Officially, the city website reads, “The disparity study will identify challenges for minority- and womenowned businesses in doing business with the City of St. Petersburg.”

“It’s obvious there is a disparity,” said Erik Smith, the owner of Inclusivity, LLC, a Black-owned consulting organization in St. Petersburg. “Very few minority-owned businesses can get contracts with the city.”

This series of surveys and interviews focuses exclusively on minorityand women-owned companies, and could potentially lead to a cityrun enterprise program specifically created to assist business owners depending on the results.

“Hopefully this will trigger a way marginalized communities can get a minority inclusivity program,” Smith said. “There needs to be a space for that.”

According to project manager Jessica Eilerman, the analysis will be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2021.

“It was time the city started having a conversation with the community and seeing where any issues lie,” Eilerman said. “It’s been 20 years since the last study.”

The city’s last disparity study led to the creation of the Small Business Enterprises program.

The program, created in 2002, provides opportunities for small businesses and assists with contracting and procurement opportunities.

The current study could launch a gender- and race-specific project with the same mission.

“Conducting studies like these are a way we can start to mandate changes,” Eilerman said. “There will be a race- and gender-specific set of recommendations from the consultant that the city will consider once we have the final report.”

CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG

By Abby Baker

The Nuts and Bolts Mason Tillan, a California-based disparity study consultant, is looking at minority-owned business contracts granted by the city of St. Petersburg from October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2018.

The city wants to see how many women-owned and minority-owned businesses were able to bid on city contracts in that time period.

The three types of businesses being considered are construction,

professional services, and goods and services.

According to Eilerman, a majority of this analysis was completed via a community survey that was closed this month.

“We are moving along pretty well,” Eilerman said. “It is looking like the end of April or beginning of May that we will have our final report.”

For more information visit stpete. org/with_the_city/disparity_ study.php.

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

the gabs What is your favorite thing about Florida?

Jake Wesselkamper, Cleveland: “The diversity among the community here.”

Lynda Lyday, St. Petersburg: “St. Petersburg, the Gulfport area.”

Kasey Bonfield, St. Petersburg: “The weather.”

Faye Lee, St. Petersburg: “The weather because we get summer all year round and we get to go to the beach anytime we want to.”

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

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

25

crossword

Solution on page 31

Wingding

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 31

JAMES FOX

sudoku

Brrr! We’re not in Florida anymore... James Fox of James Fox Tree Service wished folks a Happy New Year with his Gabber from western New York, just outside of Buffalo.

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.

26

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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CLASSIFIEDS Accounting

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

10+ years experience.

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

TAX PREPARATION Individual and Business Tax Preparation. Tax Debt Help & Back Tax Resolution. ITIN Anastasiya Dycus EA CAA, 1135 Pasadena Ave S, Office 105, South Pasadena, FL 33707, 727-793-5419, Admin@taxhelp123.com, Open 10-7 M-S and by appointment.

Automotive

FOR SALE-FORD CARGO VAN $1100

For sale 1997 Ford Econoline Cargo Van200,000 miles-Runs well. 727-459-4967 Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area.

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

Non-Medical Home Care • Private Duty Personal Care • Companionship Homemaker Services • No Contracts No Minimum Hour Requirement Licensed, Bonded, Insured Nurse Owned & Operated

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. me here you are my mother. 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. Computer Services JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair. 40.00 per visit. www.jmswebservices.com 727-643-0697

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

Computer Problems?

No Problem!

In-Home Service FREE Phone Consultation Virus/Malware Removal Setup • Repair • Tutoring Courteous, Competent, Reliable Service

cial. New or remodel work, service upgrades, lightning arrestors. Fans and lighting installed. State License #ER0007653.

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! For Sale

7 PC. BEDROOM SUITE Ashley. All dark wood. Only 4 years old. Queen size bed, with head and footboard, 2 night stands, chest of drawers, full size dresser. Like new. $500. Call 727-244-5906 Furnished Rentals

TOWN SHORES OF GULFPORT KENMORE 103 Beautiful one bedroom deluxe.

Nicely furnished and outfited. Easy clean ceramic floors. Gas stove and furnace.

Cold A/C. Open feeling. Handy carport.

Steps to pool. Annual lease: $1,200 per month + electric. Available now. To see call Dann: 727-687-4089 RELAXED LIVING IN TOWN SHORES OF GULFPORT Kenmore 103, a beautifully nicely furnished large one bedroom deluxe. Easy clean ceramic floors. Gas stove and furnace. Cold A/C. Open feeling. Handy carport. Steps to pool. Annual lease: $1,200 monthly + electric.

Available now. To see call Dann: 727687-4089 Handy Person HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-4102201

General

CARPENTER DEPENDABLE! Have Tools Will Travel Trustworthy. Doors, Decks/ Eaves/Rotted Wood, Etc. 30 Year Gabber Advertiser. Free Estimates, Lic. C-5754.

727-821-9973.

CALL TODAY 727-381-7498

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

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.

Card of Thanks

SPORTING GOODS Pistol 223/556 SBA Brace, 10-1/2 inch barrel. Serious inquiries only. Must have ID to purchase. $900 #727385-3074

Free In-Home Consultation / RN Assessment

www.omnipresentcaregivers.com Care@OmniPresentCaregivers.com

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never Known to Fail) - Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, star of the sea, help me & show

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perfectworldllc.com

Electrical

AC ELECTRIC • 727-345-3108 Over 30 years experience. Residential & commer-

Help Wanted

HAIRDRESSERS/ HAIR STYLISTS

Hair Stylist Wanted for a New Aveda Salon in St Petersburg. Please send an email to info@luminatesalonspa.com or Call 727-3315722

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

ISO EXPERIENCED RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANERS

- Sod installation - Tree services - Pavers - Landscaping - Irrigation.Contact us 727-323-4792 or Jmolina@jslawn.com. free estimates - Tree pruning

We are looking for Experienced Cleaners with a Current and Valid Drivers License and a Clean Criminal Background. We are looking for full time which will include weekends in some cases. We start at $11 to train. Text 727-656-2907

Moving / Hauling

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-8310507.

Painting

MASTERS PAINTING When Quality Counts.

Trust Masters Painting. Making Happy Customers for 37yrs. Pressure Cleaning, Waterproofing, Honest, Reliable. 727-3441674. References, Guaranteed. Lic.#C4749.

Heating / Air Conditioning

PINNIX PAINTING INC Interior , Exterior.

In Business Locally Since 1980. Free Estimates. Commercial, Residential. References Upon Request. Lic. #C4334. 727-6411888

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

Irrigation Stain Removal

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

We remove ugly rust-colored stains from PVC Fencing, house siding, signs, mailboxes, painted wood & concrete/ stucco, cars.

Home & Condo Maintenance

D.C. STRONG

Home & condo maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work, A-Z • Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530 • Licensed & Insured Lawn / Landscape TREE PRUNING & DEBRIS CLEANUP Serving South St. Petersburg • Free Estimates • 727-308-8650

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Rich Moseley, Irrigation Contractor. 25 Years Experience. Reasonable Rates. Well & Pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.

J’S LAWN MAINTENANCE & SERVICES

Complete lawn maintenance we’re helping to keep your lawn Beautiful. Over 20 years of experience.- lawn maintenance

free quote & DEMO (727) 360-7070 Miscellaneous Services

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!

PETE’S HAIR DESIGN--CHAIR RENTALS Three available. $150/week. Four weeks off bonus. Two can split a chair. 6620 Central Avenue. 727-418-6109.

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

EXTERIOR PAINTING

BY MASTERGUARD PAINTING

30 Years Painting in Pinellas County.

Sherwin Williams Products used with a lifetime guarantee. Licensed and insured.

Discounts for Seniors, Veterans and First Responders MASTERGUARD PAINTING LLC Call Steve at 727-424-4303 Pets / Animals

MURPHY’S DOG WALKING SERVICE

If your looking for a Professional, Reliable, Insured Dog Walker, Please contact me, We can set up a personalized plan to take care of your pet. Daily, Weekly rates.

Starting at $12 a walk or visit. www.Murphysdogwalking.com email: Murphysdog walking727@gmail.com 508-310-3435 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.

Positions Wanted

PETE’S HAIR DESIGN--CHAIR RENTALS Three available. $150/week. Four weeks off bonus. Two can split a chair. 6620 Central Avenue. 727-418-6109.

Real Estate For Rent

55+ COMMUNITY HOME FOR RENT

2/2 Carport,Shed w/ Washer/Dryer,NO PETS, NO SMOKING,$1,200/month,MUST PASS CREDIT AND BACKGROUND CHECK. Application fee to the park $50pp non-refundable. 727-455-6263 Donna COZY COTTAGE FOR RENT 2bd/1ba. Pasadena Estates--close to everything! Call 727-434-0424.

HOUSE FOR RENT 5209 12th Ave S Gulfport 3bd/1ba block house. Central A/C. Fenced yard. Pets OK. $1300. Please call 1-305-975-0840

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Real Estate For Sale

COMING SOON!

Tierra Verde 4 Bd / 2 Ba • Screened Pool $599,000 • Call for Details

Dina Gamma, Realtor®

727-410-5035

gammadina10@gmail.com

Thinking of Selling? Call me!

For Sale or Rent Located in South Pasadena, in the famous waterfront Chateaux Tower. PENTHOUSE 2 bed 2 bath unit on the 16th floor featuring gorgeous open water views and is totally remodeled. Available for $535K, or rent $2850/mo. We also have a 4th floor corner unit for $399k (currently rented with good income). Call 702-580-1552

Helping you from START to FINISH Call us today and let us show you the difference a personal relationship makes.

Debbie

Cunningham YOUR FLORIDA REAL ESTATE COMPANY

(727) 460-5418 DebbieCunninghamTeam@gmail.com

MYSTPETE.COM Wanted

BUYING VINTAGE COSTUME JEWELRY

Kaye’s Vintage Jewelry. Buying Vintage Costume Jewelry from 1980s back.

Brooches, necklaces, clip on earrings, bracelets. Vintage mechanical watches and Parts. I make House Calls. Call Kaye anytime 239 560 2816. I am interested in other small vintage items, pocket watches, watch chains.

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announcements 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.

Book a Storytime Looking for something to do with the little ones in your life? Book a Story Time at the Gulfport Library! For 15 minutes, Miss Abigail will read, sing and dance with your family – you can even ask for a specific theme. Call 727-893-1074 to book a time.

Get Ready for ReadOut 2021 ReadOut 2021: A Festival of Lesbian Literature put out a call for submissions for this year’s event, to be held via Zoom on Friday, February 26 through Sunday, February 28. This year’s theme is “Lesbian Voices Persist and Prevail.” ReadOut 2021 will be a hybrid of live streaming, prerecorded readings, entertainment and chat opportunities between sessions.

Well-known lesbian authors including Sally Bellerose, Elana Dykewomon, Sheree Greer, Sue Katz, Rose Norman, Jean Redmann and Susan Stinson are slated to present panels on themes like elder lesbian writings, Black women writers, mystery, fiction and the intersection of friendship and careers as lesbian authors. The deadline for submissions is February 1.

Visit mygulfport.us/readout for more.

Need a Little Help?

Pinellas County has a large resource of assistance information, including food pantry distribution sites, financial assistance, eviction/foreclosure assistance information, internet access help, pet care assistance and more. Text your zip code to 211 Tampa Bay Cares at 898211 or dial 211 24 hours a day, or visit covid19.pinellascounty. org/where-to-get-help for more.

Make a Difference for an LGBTQ Senior One in five seniors experience the loneliness of social isolation, and LGBTQ individuals are more likely to experience it, according to EPIC Generation. That’s why the organization created the Friendly Caller Program, which fosters multigenerational connections in the LGBTQ community through regular phone calls by trained volunteers. These volunteers offer social support, share meaningful conversations, promote lasting friendships and provide community referrals. Learn more or sign up to volunteer at MyEPIC.org/Generations or call 727-328-5524.

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 727893-1089 or visit call2recycle.org.

Watch the Watchers Virtually Gulfport’s Neighborhood Watch has gone virtual, which means no matter where you are you can participate via Facebook. The group meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Find the group on Facebook by searching for “Gulfport, FL Community Crime Watch.” The meetings and group offer Gulfport residents a monitored way to learn about burglaries, stolen vehicles and more. Call 727-893-1022 or email Gulfport’s volunteer coordinator Jim Wright at jwright@mygulfport.us if you want more information.

theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

solutions

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

We Have Moved!

Our new office is NOW OPEN and located at 6641 Central Avenue within the West Central Shopping Plaza!

Fly on over and see our new space!

Marie Drew mdrew@remax.net

727-657-1259 MarieDrew.com

YOUR GULFPORT LOCAL EXPERT! ERT!!

ERT theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021

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VIEWS, VALUE & VIBE &

PARADISE FOUND The Good Life Is Calling Incredible views, stunning residences, unbeatable wellness programs, engaging community events, valet parking, delicious cuisine and so much more. The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay really has it all for an affordable monthly rate starting at just $1,695.

Focus on enjoying today and leave the rest to us. There is no better time to start an extraordinary community lifestyle that’ll keep you healthy, happy and connected.

Call 727-381-5411 today to learn more about the best retirement living value in St. Petersburg and to schedule a virtual or in-person private consultation.

1255 Pasadena Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33707 727-381-5411 • watermarkcommunities.com A WATERMARK RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

INDEPENDENT LIVING  ASSISTED LIVING  MEMORY CARE SKILLED NURSING AT THE SPRINGS, OPERATED BY SUMMIT CARE INC.

FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083

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theGabber.com | January 21, 2021 - January 27, 2021