The Gabber: February 25, 2021 by thegabber

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February 25 - March 3, 2021

Skunks, Chihuahuas and Kitties, Oh My! One of the first street festivals hosted by the Gulfport Merchants Chamber in 2021, Gulfport’s Get Rescued will be bursting with furry energy up and down Beach Boulevard on Saturday, February 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “These rescues really rely on us,” said GMC President Barbara Banno. “Post COVID, we may not have as much food donated or donations, but we’re going to do everything we can for these rescues.” The event is one large fundraiser for Florida-based animal rescues; more than 30 organizations and up to 70 pet-friendly vendors will decorate the Gulfport street for the 17th year. “This really is a beloved tradition,” event organizer Suzie King, owner of SIK Promotions, said. “Get Rescued was the last street festival hosted by the Gulfport Merchant’s Chamber in 2020; we’re really excited to get to have it this year.” Nearly a year later, the world has changed, and so has Gulfport’s furriest festival.

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Get Rescued continued on page 4

Gulfport Candidates Q&A: Part 2 P.9

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Hug a Skunk They require a permit, use a litter box and are legally required to have their scent glands removed in adolescence. Skunks are becoming a popular pet choice for fans of niche critters, so they need an organization that understands their quirks. That’s where Florida Skunk Rescue comes in. President Brenda Hoch and her team of skunk foster parents at the nonprofit take in

abandoned animals and work to find them homes. “Shelters won’t take them in because they’re considered exotic animals,” Hoch said. “People get rid of them just like they would a cat or a dog, but they can’t just put them in a shelter.” Hoch spotted her first skunk – “Spike” – at a pet store in the early 2000s. “They are actually really quiet, like a mix of a cat and a dog,” Hoch said. “They don’t chew wires or anything, but they may dig up a carpet because they’re natural burrowers.” In 2021, she’s running Florida Skunk Rescue out of her home, and with many volunteers, but she can’t do it without support. “We don’t make any money re-homing the skunks,” Hoch said with a laugh. “We rely on donations.” Hoch and a gaggle of black-andwhite companions will accept donations and educate the public at Get Rescued. “We’re doing hugs for $1 all day,” Hoch said. More at floridaskunkrescue.com. Tiny Paws, Horse Sized Dogs Limbo Chihuahuas and Giant Dog Rescue have the same goals, on the opposite ends of the spectrum.

CAT HAVEN

Attendees will pass through one of two entrances, each with a temperature check. Festival patrons with no sign of fever will be permitted entry, with a wristband to show for it. “Volunteers will be surveying the festival; anyone without a wristband will be steered toward the exit,” King said. “Masks will definitely be enforced.” Also on tap for the day, the Florida Wiener Dog Derby will trot off at 2 p.m. and attendees will be able to drop pet-related donations at the front entrance of the Gulfport Casino. Coco, a resident of The Historic Peninsula Inn since 2018 and Gulfport’s pet mayor, will greet Gulfportians to celebrate her reign. More at fb.com/getrescued.

Get Rescued continued from cover

The idea is to re-home, rescue and support the breeds, no matter how large or small. “Chihuahuas get a bad rap. People want to automatically assume that they are loud and aggressive,” said Limbo Chihuahua Director Susan Adams. “It’s the same as any dog, it’s how they’re raised.” Five hundred teeny rescues have come in and out of Limbo’s foster homes, and Get Rescued will have several adoptable, and already adopted, friends to represent the nonprofit. “Stewie, our Chihuahua with one leg amputated was really popular online,” Adams said. “He’s already adopted, but he’ll be saying hello to everyone.” Towering over the purse-sized rescues, Giant Dog Rescue will also accept donations and boops during the festival. “We take every precaution when finding a home,” said GDR board member Patrick Williston. “We do home visits and meet every member of the family – it wouldn’t be safe to not do our due diligence.” From Bohemian apartments to a

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

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“He’s gotten a lot of online attention, and found a home,” Adams said. “Everyone loves Stewie.”

fenced-in backyard, dogs over 100 pounds can potentially fit anywhere with the right lifestyle. “One of the best re-homings we did was a massive, lazy, 190-pound dog in a townhome,” Williston said. “He’s doing great now, lost weight and goes on three walks a day.” More at limbochihuahuas.org and flgdr.org. Running Into Our Hearts In December of 2020, greyhound racing came to an end in Florida, but the long-legged creatures that fueled this controversial sport still need homes off the track. “Even outside the racing industry, these dogs are well-balanced, gentle and good with people,” said Sharon Dippel, who runs GST’s Sun State Greyhound Adoptions. GST will be at Get Rescued, dogs in tow, to represent the greyhound

community and educate interested adopters. “We never adopt on the spot,” Dippel said. “We need to determine that the home is a right fit, that the person is a right fit.” For more visit sunstategreyhounds.org. What About the Kitties? While other pet rescues may have cats for adoption, Cat Haven is only cat-exclusive rescue organization at Get Rescued. Cat Haven is a Land O’ Lakes-based nonprofit dedicated to finding homes for abandoned felines. The all-volunteer organization rescues strays and finds them homes, while also helping control the feral cat population in Pasco and Hillsborough counties through their “trap, neuter, return” program. More at fb.com/cathavenrescueinc.

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Fear keeps many of us from creating the life of our dreams. Fear of rejection, fear of abandonment, fear of failure, fear of financial insufficiency, fear of loss – fear can rule our lives and prevent us from living our dream life. I view fear as a gift from the Universe to show me where emotional healing is needed. Today, take a moment to remember the longing of your heart and take one step toward your dream. When fear arises, greet the fear with kindness and love, asking the fear to show you the wounded places within that are longing to be healed. Namaste.

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Gulfport Council Takes a Look at 2020 By Ryan McGahan

Tuesday, February 17, Gulfport Council met the new Gulfport police K-9 unit, spoke with the local Habitat for Humanities branch, and approved a permit for Get Rescued, before hearing what each branch of the city accomplished in the last fiscal year. The meeting – held in-person at the Catherine Hickman Theater and via Zoom – began with a series of presentations, including the introduction of the Gulfport Police Department’s new K-9 unit, featuring Cezar and Ghost. Cheryl Hannafin, the city’s finance director, then accepted the Financial Reporting Achievement Award, marking Gulfport’s 37th year as a recipient of the national award. Council in the Mood to Approve Council approved Caroline Woodruff’s appointment to the Gulfport Board of Adjustment, which has the

final say on zoning requirements. Woodruff replaces longtime board member William Seawall, who recently stepped down as chairman. “Caroline has been in Gulfport a few years now; she’s a really good friend of mine too. She’s a very detail-orientated person who’s done a lot of work with other types of environments. Her previous experience will really come in handy,” Councilmember Paul Ray said. “We do appreciate all the work that Mr. Seawall has done for us over the years and regret watching him resign, but we really do thank him for everything that he’s done.” Council also approved the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce’s application for the annual “Get Rescued” fundraiser on Beach Boulevard, February 27. The event will have 102 booths of pet-themed vendors and rescue organizations to raise money and awareness for different animal causes. The

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Habitat for Humanity Seeks Residents Mike Sutton, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, spoke on his organization’s goal of building 70 new affordable homes in Pinellas County this year. Habitat for Humanity has not built a home in Gulfport since 2018, and so far has no plans to do so this year, but Sutton wants to reach out to families or individuals in the city looking to own a home, and ask them to apply through the group’s website. Once they receive and approve an application, HFH can buy land in the applicant’s home community, and build a home to fit their needs, transferring ownership to them with a 0% interest loan. “One of the biggest misconceptions about Habitat, besides the fact that everyone thinks Jimmy Carter is our CEO, is that we build homes and give them away for free; that’s not the case. Our homeowners are folks that fall in an income range where they are not able to qualify for a traditional loan, but they make too much to receive any government assistance,” Sutton said. The Year in Gulfport

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Council concluded with an overview of the fiscal year, October 2019 to September 2020, as leaders from each municipal department presented the data on what they’d accomplished. Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent reported a slight increase in crimes on persons – including murder, robbery and assault – over the last few years, and an ongoing decrease in property crimes, like burglary, over the same period. The overall number of calls made

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

JUNE JOHNS

Between in-person and virtual events, the Gulfport Public Library actually served over 16,000 people lin 2020, compared to 12,000 in 2019.

to the police department, 7295, was slightly higher than the previous past years’ totals. “I felt that was a little surprising, given the nature of the pandemic... a lot of them were not your typical calls… in this case we had a lot of calls about people experiencing depression and needing help, that sort of thing,” Vincent said. Despite the pandemic, the department still carried out several special events and programs, like the Citizens’ Police Academy, and Operation Santa, which collected and gave out toys to 250 kids in 90 families last year. City Manager Jim O’Reilly spoke for the Gulfport Fire Rescue, briefly highlighting the department’s 2876 emergency responses and 40 extinguished fires. Fred Metcalf, Director of the Community Development Department, spoke on the valuation of permits, which had been steadily increasing for the last few years, but stagnated last year largely due to COVID-19. Gulfport Public Library Director David Mather showed that between in-person and virtual events, the library served over 16,000 people last year, compared to 12,000 in 2019. He also advertised the variety of online partnerships the library has made with sites like Kanopy, RBDigital and Hoopla, which provide audiobooks,

movies, documentaries and ebooks for free to those with a library card. Jim O’Reilly followed up with a reminder that people who need assistance applying for a COVID vaccine online can get help from library staff.

The City of Gulfport Recreation Center received a new school bus for after school and summer programs, while the Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center’s Mini-Bus Service made 4,683 trips last year. “This is such an important part of our community that gets people out and about. Now, a lot of seniors have chosen not to go out as often, but they still have medical appointments and such, so we are extremely cognizant of masks, social distancing, and cleaning the vehicles after each use,” said City Manager Jim O’Reilly. The Senior Center also hosted 161 virtual events between August and September of last year, compared to the 2,374 in-person events between October 2019 and March of 2020. Justin Shea, Gulfport’s Cultural Facilities Events Supervisor, shared that between the two mask distribution sites at the Public Works Office and Gulfport Casino, the city gave out over 55,000 Council continued on page 8

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Council continued from page 7

face coverings between June 9 and October 15. The Casino generated $203,000 in revenue for the city, less than half the total for each of the previous four years, but also completed a number of renovations, including the flooring and a new bar. New in tech, the city launched a webpage for the latest on COVID-19 updates, including vaccine availability, which has been viewed nearly 13,000 times. “We also send our communications through the city’s network on Constant Contact, and we were able to build a feature where if a resident would like to be included on that email list, you have the ability to text ‘MYGULFPORT’ to 22828 and then follow those prompts to register,” Shea said.

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Harbormaster Denis Frain spoke about the Gulfport Marina. “If there was any silver lining to the pandemic, it was a big shot in the arm to the Marina industry and the RV industry,” Frain said, adding that the Marina had earned the “Elite Fleet” Boaters’ Choice Award from Marinas.com, one of only 90 Marinas in the nation, and 3 in Florida to do so. Gulfport’s Public Works Department paved just over four miles of road, replaced 3,664 square feet of sidewalk, regraded over two miles of alleyways, and finished its restorations on Williams Pier. According to Finance Director Hannafin, since 2014, the city earned close to $5 million in grants, with $860,000 more pending, largely due to COVID-related delays.

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Overheard at the February 16 Gulfport City Council Meeting “I just want to let everyone know that the Pink Flamingo Garden Tour is Saturday, March 6. It’s an all-outdoor event; we’ll be viewing all kinds of backyards from edible landscapes to meditation spots, lots of chickens…” – Caron Schwartz, who added that tickets for the tour are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. “In the last 24 to 48 hours, we’ve had an extreme number of negative posts on social media. The city has been called racist, anti-semetic, gay-bashers, uncaring to the homeless and mentally ill, and full of dirty politicians … We must all stop with all this name calling. I believe that the city council and the city manager must address some of these issues from the dais .… The city council must clearly and precisely respond to some of these accusations until the majority of folks know the facts. Silence and pretending that this isn’t a problem doesn’t work.” – Karen Love “In comparing my two [water] bills... it’s about two cents a gallon for Gulfport compared to half a cent a gallon in St. Pete… I think it’s kind of onerous for a business to bear that kind of cost… I would like the council to consider commercial water rates for folks such as myself. I am getting it from other municipalities and would appreciate the consideration.” – Clay Ham, owner of Soapy’s Laundromat chain, on the difference between his utility bills in and outside Gulfport

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Gulfport Candidates Q&A: Part 2 Compiled by Gabber Staff

For the last round of candidate questions before the citywide election March 9, the Gabber asked each candidate six ward-specific questions compiled from readers and editorial staff. Answers have been edited for style and length. See each candidate’s answers to all six questions with this article at thegabber.com.

MIKE BAUER

Mike Bauer, Ward 2 Challenger You’ve made it clear that sea level rise and climate change are a priority for you. Please name three other issues in your ward that you will make a priority if elected. Parking on Beach and Shore. We need to receive input from business-

es, residents and shoppers/diners on what they think. If there is more than a perceived problem, then we need to enter into a consensus procedure where solutions are discussed and solutions reached that all can agree on, even if it’s not everyone’s ideal solution. Increasing participation in government, particularly by younger people and people of color. We need to reach out and involve more people by continuing Zoom city council meetings, keeping more office hours, and going out into the community. Increase green space. Use lots and undeveloped areas as pocket parks that can be used to store flood waters, like on Tangerine, serve as parks when there is no flooding, and perhaps be available for placement of solar panels as part of a city microgrid system. You were a natural resources manager when you worked for the City of Naples. How do you translate those

skills into Gulfport City Council’s other functions, like infrastructure and reviewing the annual budget. What can you bring to the discussion over an experienced councilmember? As the manager of a city division, I had to create an annual budget for operations, maintenance and capital assets. I believe it is much harder to develop a budget than it is to review it. I know what goes into creating a budget that is a part of an overall city budget. I can see the point of view of both staff and council. What do you identify as the most important issue in Ward 2, and how do you think the city should solve it? Definitely sea level rise. It is inevitable and must be addressed now. We need to develop a vulnerability assessment that identifies the problems to infrastructure, management, housing and public protection SLR will bring about, and develop an action plan to address whether to protect interests, accommodate the water, or eventually carry out an orderly retreat. Council continued on page 10

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Council continued from page 9

Christine Brown, Ward 2 Incumbent

CHRISTINE BROWN

You have suggested that manmade dunes are contributing to sedimentation in Clam Bayou. What can the city council do to improve flushing in Clam Bayou and Boca Ciega Bay? Originally Osgood Point, the land adjacent to Clam Bayou was flat, open greenspace. Through grant money, the mounds that you see there today were created. For the past 20 years or so, listening to neighbors and Gulfport old-timers, I believe that rain runoff from the man-made mounds may be a contributing factor to the amount of silt in Clam Bayou. Solving the silting issue could also lead to the increase of the natural flushing of the bayou. At a minimum, the city should retain an environmental engineer to explore the theory that runoff is playing a role in the loss of the original sandy bottom of Clam Bayou and measure the validity of the suggestion that we return the public site to the original flat open greenspace. While much attention has been paid to the land underneath the Boca Ciega Yacht Club, council has not recently discussed other private interests along the waterfront: The Gulfport Lions Club leases land, but owns the building; the Gulfport Yacht Club pays close to market rent for its land on the water, and the

marina uses waterfront land for dry storage. Do you support other uses for this city waterfront space? Gulfport is a melting pot of community-minded folks from different experiences, lifestyles, careers and education. I am open to any ideas that my neighbors will bring forward. Working together, I know we can create an inclusive vision for the marina. When decisions are made, I will definitely be on board with any idea that supports open access to our public land and public waters.

What do you identify as the most important issue in Ward 2, and how do you think the city should solve it? Due to the location of our city on Boca Ciega Bay, maintaining the integrity of our underground infrastructure is paramount. We are fiscally dedicated to necessary infrastructure improvements and I am committed

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to ensuring that program funding continues. The city has already taken numerous steps to combat the infiltration and inflow issues in our sanitary sewer system. We are currently under contract to begin the lift station sanitary sewer bypass project, which is a major step in eliminating future discharges by creating more capacity in our city. A priority of mine is to ensure that the sanitary sewer bypass project is completed.

Michael Fridovich, Ward 4 Incumbent For 30 years, Ward 4 has had not only a ward representative, but a mayor who has lived in Ward 4. However, the ward seems, to some residents, to be a redheaded stepchild in the city: The city performed the bulk of sewer and road improvements there last, improved the ward’s playground last, removed the tennis courts/skate park and has yet to develop that space. Please name three concrete ways you will put Ward 4 first. Since my first day of being elected I have always had a priority attitude towards Ward 4. I will continue to advocate for more road repairs, sidewalks and alleyways, a continuation of maintaining our parks (i.e greenspaces), Trolley [Market] Square and improvements when needed for 49th Street, and working with neighbors to make our neighborhoods safer.

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MICHAEL FRIDOVICH

Just doing what the city has been doing – repairing our streets, etc. How are the needs of Ward 4 residents different from other wards? I don’t believe they are. We are all one city with many of the same issues. We have to work as one, not as individual areas, for the greater need of the city and residents as [a] whole.

Richard Fried, Ward 4 Challenger Your campaign has been focused on solar energy on city buildings. As Mr. Fridovich noted during the debate, some of Gulfport’s municipal buildings are aging and in need of either renovation or complete rebuilds. What is your plan for solar with regard to aging infrastructure? There are 15 city buildings. I am sure at least a few of these buildings can be solarized. When the marina addition was completed/renovated, no solar component was part of that upgrade. Michael was on the council then, and not a mention of solar from him, the other councilmembers or the mayor. When I am on council, “we,” [the council, the mayor], will direct our city manager to investigate which buildings are appropriate for solar either now or during renovations. No question about it. Like anything else, when council designates a need, finding funding will follow. Solar pays for itself over time.

RICHARD FRIED

What do you identify as the most important issue in Ward 4, and how do you think the city should solve it?

How would you help the businesses along 49th Street prosper in a city that seems geared towards its downtown? Seems? In the Save-A-Lot shopping center parking lot, let’s plant trees! 49th Street needs a median strip with trees. In collaboration with St. Petersburg, we can have the businesses paint their buildings with a color palette reminiscent of the Art Deco era, or the 1960s. And when the next coffee shop opens up on 49th in

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Council continued on page 12

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the Tangerine Avenue area, I am so there. What do you identify as the most important issue in Ward 4, and how do you think the city should solve it? I believe asphalt streets have to go. I live on a brick-lined street which adds to the percolation of rain water, thus reducing the strain on the sewer system [drainage]. I also believe it improves my property value, reduces speeding and lastly is cost-effective in the long term. I would guess my brick-lined street has not had any maintenance since it was laid. I would also hazard a guess our paved streets have been repaved many multiple times. At a minimum, we must repair those brick-lined streets in need of maintenance, not pave them with asphalt. Lastly, our alleys need to be graded and graveled.

Ian O’Hara, Ward 4 Challenger At the debate, you talked about surveys as one way to get citizen

feedback. How would you propose reaching citizens who don’t go online or may not respond to a mail survey?

IAN O’HARA

Council continued from page 11

Surveys are driven by responders. Town halls are a great addition, too. Town halls usually focus on one issue: people feel their voices are heard and not overlooked, and city council gets clear ideas regarding community interests. We must give power back to constituents. Re-engaging town halls will be an effec-

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tive measure for obtaining citizen feedback. For 30 years, Ward 4 has had not only a ward representative, but a mayor who has lived in Ward 4. However, the ward seems, to some residents, to be a redheaded stepchild in the city: The city performed the bulk of sewer and road improvements there last, improved the ward’s playground last, removed the tennis courts/ skate park and has yet to develop that space. Please name three concrete ways you will put Ward 4 first. Construct a new police station, located on 49th Street. Gulfport has outgrown its current facility. A new police station can be tailored to the current size, space and makeup needs of our community and, as a modern building, allow up-to-date possibilities such as solar panels. I don’t believe Ward 4 faces big issues. It’s mainly smaller ones – such as potholes, trees, stop signs and storm drain cleaning – that nonetheless deserve prompt attention and resolution. These matters, while perhaps not important to everyone, are important to someone. Our constituents have expressed strong interest in a nearby dog park. We have the space and should examine options to create the right fit. How would you help the businesses along 49th Street prosper in a city that seems geared towards its downtown? If elected, I would support any business wishing to open along 49th Street. To be sure, 49th Street poses specific issues that make it difficult for the city to intervene. It is a county road; the eastern rightof-way belongs to St. Petersburg, and it has a speed limit a little higher than desired for retail. But I believe 49th Street can be developed as a productive district within the city and provide good-paying, preferably green jobs if more emphasis is placed on attracting light industrial and manufacturing operations.

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Home Rule: Online Sales Tax By Jennifer Webb

The timing couldn’t be better for the Florida legislature to pass the Out-of-State Online Sales Tax Bill. For the past two years, legislators have given out-of-state virtual vendors a $700 million advantage annually over our local retailers in places like Corey Avenue, Beach Boulevard and Central Avenue. This year that advantage is estimated at an astounding $1 billion dollars – or, half of our current projected budget shortfall. Diligently working to level this playing field is a bipartisan effort in the state Senate, led for the second year by Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota). With just a few weeks until session, the Out-of-State Online Sales Tax Bill (SB50) only has one stop left on its journey to the floor. (The House has yet to even hear HB15, the companion bill by Clemons and LaMarca). These bills would require that outof-state online retailers collect and remit sales tax, just like their Florida-based competitors must do each year. This is not only fair, but also much needed after a year of record Main Street store closures. This bill is part of a fight for fairness waged by Main Street retailers since the early 1990s. In 2018, retail shops won a big victory in South Dakota v. Wayfair, when the Supreme Court decided a business only needs an economic connection with a state to collect and remit online sales tax. Since then, every state except Florida and Missouri has passed statutes to enact this decision. Perhaps this is the year for Florida… Senator Gruters’ bill would require virtual vendors that engage in 200 transactions per year, or more than $100,000 in sales per year in Florida, to collect and remit sales tax. Currently, consumers are supposed to track and remit this tax for online purchases themselves. (I bet you didn’t even realize this!) SB50 is expected to generate $937.6 million this coming fiscal year and $1.08 billion next year in state revenue. Collectively, local governments would

see revenue increase by $229.5 million next fiscal year and by $253.7 million the following year. Gruters is proposing that this become a “revenue neutral bill.” According to him, this means that the revenue collected will not go to fill the approximately $2-billion hole in the state’s budget, but would directly go back into the pockets of Floridians. While the Senate Committee quibbles over how the money should be used, I’d like to throw in my two cents: We must prioritize small businesses and families, so let’s further reduce the business rental tax, as Senators Gruters and Ed Hooper suggest. This is an archaic tax that exists solely in Florida, which charges businesses tax on the rent they pay. This tax makes it tough for Main Street businesses. Since hardworking Floridians will be the ones paying the online sales tax, let’s set aside some of this revenue for a rebate to families who qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. This will help offset the additional burden of the online sales tax. After all, the reason politicians dragged their feet to begin with was because they feared the Online Sales Tax would be seen as a new tax. While not technically a new tax, for the 97% of Floridians who do not know they are supposed to pay online sales tax, SB50 will feel like a new tax. And, collecting this online sales tax is still the right thing to do, especially if we also care for our hard working families who can least afford it. The majority of the revenue could and should go toward a tax rebate. An analysis of the Working Families Tax Rebate Bill, introduced in by Senator J. Rodriguez and Reps. Fernandez and myself, show such a program would only cost half of the revenue generated by SB50. This would go a long way to help families already struggling. The other half should go to offset business rental taxes. There is a plethora of data showing that when families and small businesses receive these types of

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

tax breaks and rebates, they pump the money back into the local economy. And, after 2020, this is exactly what Florida needs most.

“Home Rule” is a monthly column focusing on local and regional politics by Jennifer Webb, former member of the Florida State House, District 69, a founding partner of Omni Public, and an applied anthropologist. She lives in Gulfport with her wife, Cynthia, and their adopted pup, Bailey.

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Recalling the Roots of Local Black History “A people without knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture,” wrote Marcus Garvey, “is like a tree without roots.” That’s the spirit embodied in two companion books on the history of St. Petersburg’s Black community, co-written by Rosalie Peck and Jon Wilson. Together, “St. Petersburg’s Historic 22nd Street South” (2006) and “St. Petersburg’s Historic African American Neighborhoods” (2008) offer a glimpse into the lives of Black residents who shaped the history of South Pinellas. Peck, who passed away in 2009, was a local poet and Executive Editor of The Weekly Challenger who grew up in St. Petersburg during the height of Jim Crow. She was one of two Black students who integrated all-white St. Petersburg Junior College in 1961. Wilson, who logged 36 years with The St. Petersburg Times, grew up in a segregated St. Petersburg, and recalls having never spoken to a person of color until he joined the U.S. Army at 21. Peck and Wilson put their considerable wordpower to use, creating richly detailed chronicles of life in Methodist Town, Gas Plant, 22nd Street South (the Deuces), and other historically Black neighborhoods that formed because of Jim Crow, and flourished in spite of it. These histories provide a timeline

THE HISTORY PRESS

By Amanda Hagood

Rosalie Peck and Jon Wilson wrote two companion books on the history of St. Petersburg’s Black community.

of Black history in South Pinellas, a directory of Black businesses and churches, and a multitude of photographs documenting life in the neighborhoods. But where they really shine is in capturing cherished community stories: important places like the Manhattan Casino and important people – including the teachers, preachers, parents and professionals – that sustained their neighborhoods.

The books are all the more poignant because many of these once-vital neighborhoods have been radically altered by urban redevelopment. The authors note, for instance, that the construction of Tropicana Field atop the old Gas Plant neighborhood resulted in the relocation (or closure) of nine churches, 30 businesses and more than 500 households.

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Reconstructing this shattered history was a labor of love, involving deep dives into the archives of local newspapers as well as the City of St. Petersburg, assistance from USF-St. Petersburg faculty, and contributions of family photographs, interviews, and memories from dozens of St. Pete residents. This painstaking process reflects a larger truth about Black history, which for generations

has been unevenly documented, or entirely left out of official records. As local historian Gwendolyn Reese recently put it: “If you don’t research and look for it, if it’s not important to you, you won’t find it. That’s why Jon and Rosalie’s books are so important.” Reading Peck and Wilson’s books is a wonderful way to mark Black History Month, weaving the triumphs

and the struggles of Black residents who helped to build St. Petersburg through the familiar tales of sunshine and green benches. So is walking the African-American Heritage Trails that run along 22nd Street South and 9th Avenue South, or visiting the Dr. Carter G. Woodson Museum of African American History. After all, if our tree is to thrive, we need to nurture all of its roots.

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

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

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Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, we’ve limited capacity, so call to register for a spot. Supplemental food assistance for qualifying Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Proper verification required prior to use of the pantry. GEMS (Gulfport Extended Mobility Service) provides affordable Door-to-Door transportation service, rides to medical appointments, shopping, and much more for Gulfport residents, 55 years of age or older or disabled. For more information, call (727) 893-2242.

Call us to get the zoom link for these activities. National Consumer Protection Week: Scams and How to Avoid Falling Victim Join Pinellas County Consumer Protection for an informative meeting to discuss the newest scams and how to avoid falling victim to scams. Mar. 2, 2 p.m. Gulfport ROCKS! Be a part of the monthly rock party! Swing by the center to pick up your “Grab & Go” art kit with all the needed supplies to paint rocks. Mar. 5, 12 p.m.

Virtual Veterans Coffee Connection Veterans and those who serve them to pour a cup of coffee and join the conversation. This casual forum encourages discussion and learning about veteran resources in our community, offers guidance and support to fellow veterans, and shares upcoming events for veterans. Mar. 19, 9 a.m. Gentle Mindful Yoga This class includes yoga for healthy aging with an emphasis on alignment, strength, balance, flexibility, breathing and agility. Wed., 9 a.m. Intermediate Spanish Practice and improve your Spanish. Thurs., 10 a.m. Writer’s Workshop Sharpen your pen, sharpen your mind! Whether this is your first attempt at writing or you’re an accomplished author, together our group encourages, supports, and advances each other’s writing. Fri., 10 a.m.

Find these activities on Spectrum GTV Channel 640 or at youtube. com/thegulfportseniorcenter In The Kitchen with Chef Jack: Beef Stew Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step guidance from the Soup Guru, Chef Jack! Mar. 2, 1 p.m. Call or email gpseniorcenter@ mygulfport.us for the ingredient list.

Virtual Bingo It’s fun and easy, and you can play it on your smartphone, computer, tablet, or traditional phone. Use a virtual bingo card or pick up a paper card at the Center, get a pen or bingo dauber, and you’re ready to play! Mar. 5, 1 p.m.

Larry’s Recipes From Around the World Join us for a culinary journey around the world. Make international cuisine from the comfort of your own home. This week’s destination, Greece. Mar. 9, 2 p.m. Call or email gpseniorcenter@mygulfport.us for the ingredient list.

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Chair Exercise with Pat Focus on stretching muscle groups and moving skeletal joints

without pain in this gentle exercise routine that uses several exercise methods, including yoga, isometrics, neuro-plasticity, and Tai Chi. Mon., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Yoga with Barbara Newborn We are true healers of our body, mind and spirit. Learn meditation, sound healing and how to breathe with slow body movements. Tues., 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wellness Movement with Noa SpectorFlock Explore movement to better use the whole body to create efficient movement. Weds., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wisdom Healing Qigong By the many methods of Wisdom Healing Qigong, you’ll be inspired and empowered to transform any illness or condition into wellness. Thurs., 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Chair Yoga A gentle class is for beginners and experienced practitioners alike and provides a fun, nurturing environment to increase flexibility, strength, balance and relaxation. Fri., 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Parking Lot & Outdoor Events Monday Mile Walking Club Start the new year off on the right (or left) foot. Bring a friend, invite a neighbor or walk solo with Walter. Call for meeting location. Every Monday, 9 a.m. 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge Walk, run, bike, swim or row your way to a healthier you. How, when and where you reach 100 miles is up to you – just keep moving! Sign up and get a pedometer and mileage tracker to help tally your miles easily. Ends May 26.

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Gulfport Public Library

5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 •

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Mygulfport.us/gpl • Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. All programs free and subject to change. Virtual Storytime Join us virtually for our storytime on the library’s Facebook page! Be sure to follow @GulfportLibraryFL for books and rhymes and felts and more! Storytime videos are posted biweekly on Thursdays at 10:15 am. Feb. 25, 10:15 a.m. via Facebook Babytime Online If you have little ones under 2, please join us in singing songs, reading books, enjoying lap bounce rhymes and learning baby signs. Mar. 5, 10 a.m. via Facebook.

Virtual Science Club Join us biweekly online for a fun DIY experiment from the comfort of your own kitchen using common household items. Appropriate for grades K-5. Mar. 8, 4 p.m. Virtual ReadOut 2021: A Festival of Lesbian Literature Presented by the LGBTQ Resource Center, this series features lesbian authors. Open to an international audience. Feb. 26-28; mygulfport.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

Book Club Live: Their Eyes Were Watching God Read Zora Neale Hurston’s classic about the Hurricane of 1928. Print copies at the library; download the audiobook from Hoopla; or get the ebook or audiobook from Overdrive/Libby. Mar. 18, 2 p.m.; via Facebook and Zoom. mygulfport.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec Annual registration: $3, residents; $25, non-residents Basketball (Adult) Wed., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and Thurs. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Game Room Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Pickleball All levels: Tues., 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m Beginners: Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Intermediate & Advanced Players: Mon., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Table Tennis Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

PROGRAMS After School Program Available for kindergarten students through 14 years old. Bus transportation from Pasadena Fundamental, Bear Creek, Gulfport Montessori and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program ends at 5:30 p.m., with care until 6 p.m. for an extra fee.

Teen Night Available for middle and high school students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required. Tot-Time A preschool, hands-on program for children ages 3-5. The program aims to make learning fun for children and helps prepare them for kindergarten. Two, three and five-day options available on a monthly basis. 8:45 a.m.12:30 p.m.; register from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Proof of residency required for Gulfport residents.

CLASSES Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call John: 727-893-1079.

Essential Oil Thurs. Mar. 18, 6:30 p.m. $10 Jennifer: 813-263-3919. Full-Body Fitness TBD. Call Jessica 727-5696307. Hula Hoop Fitness Thurs., 6:30 p.m. $35/ month; $10/class. Maria: mestrada1987@ gmail.com. Tennis Chase Park, 28th Ave. and 53rd St. S. Tues., Thurs., & Fri., 5-8 p.m. $10. Private lessons available. Jack (727-280-4276) or Mo (727-515-1454). Youth Hip Hop Ages 6-8: Fri., 6:30 p.m.; ages 9-16, Fri., 7:30 p.m. $35/month & $15 registration. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594. Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m. $20/month; $6/class. Magda: 727-214-7868.

Ballet and Tap Ages 3-6: Wed., 6:30 p.m.; ages 7-16: Wed., 7:30 p.m. $35/month & $15 registration. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594.

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Business Beat: Coffee House Vibes, Real Estate and Breakfast A blast from the 60s, SumitrA Espresso Lounge+ opened in 2019 intent on creating a coffeehouse discussion-pit vibe that brought people in to talk, try CBD and learn. Now, Sumitra owner and cannabinoid scientist Maurice Loeb is partnering with local chefs and musicians to include the community in his larger plan of connecting people and artists. “We’re always looking for something new,” Loeb said. “I never want to be stagnant.” Rays Vegan Soul and D-Deuce, an indie two-person band, are the latest to leapfrog off SumitrA’s laid back clientele.

FRANK KELLER

By Abby Baker

Ray’s Traveling Veganism Ray Milton, a vegan chef whose business, Ray’s Vegan Soul Food, closed in 2019, offers a healthy catering option for local businesses and events. Beginning in February, Milton serves his herbivore dishes at SumitrA for both Gulfport’s First Friday Art Walk and the Third Saturday IndieFaire each month. “I met Ray and was immediately impressed by the way he did vegan,” Loeb said. “It was different; we do vegan food, but this was soul food and I loved it.” More at raysvegansoul.com.

The Sea Breeze Cafe debuts European-style American favorites in Gulfport.

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

MAURICE LOEB

In their first online appearance, D-Deuce dropped a Valentine’s Day weekend love story circling SumitrA and Loeb. The pair plan to partner with more St. Petersburg spaces in the future. “The songs are poetic, and we wanted to tell a love story about Maurice and the community and his shop,” Karen said. Search for “SumitrA D-Deuce Valentine’s Day Gig” on YouTube to watch the eight-minute concert clip. A Small Kitchen, A German Chef with Big Flavors In 2019, Master Chef Frank Keller was running the Sea Breeze Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn remotely from his home in Germany; by 2021 Keller and his family relocated to Gulfport and he’s running the recently revitalized kitchen in a one-man show. The small kitchen in the inn is alive with pot clanging and pan switching for the first time in the two years; Keller dubbed it “The Sea Breeze Cafe” and got to work in mid-February. “I really love to cook, and the kitchen has been sitting there, empty,” Keller said. “The former owners rented it out, but I wanted to make it my own.” The Sea Breeze Cafe, located at 5701 Shore Blvd. S., is open to B&B guests from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those hours, Keller is creating sweet crepes, French toast with European bread, savory broths with fresh garnishes and more. “Our bestseller will always be the view; we’re right on the water,” Keller said. “We have a limited menu, but everything I make is with quality.” More at seabreezemanorinn.com.

According to Maurice Loeb, creator of SumitrA Espresso Lounge+, his lounge was the first brick-and-mortar business to introduce CBD in Florida.

with the intent to serve St. Petersburg’s housing needs. Drew and her 10 agents cover most of Pinellas County; they work in home sales, relocation and rental management.

“We’re very in touch with the community,” Drew said. “We’ll go as far as we need to help a customer.” For more info find Marie Drew at remax.com.

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Real People in Real Estate Saturday, February 20, RE/MAX owner Marie Drew moved her real estate firm to a larger, parking-accessible location at 6641 Central Ave. “I’ve always had a huge heart for Gulfport,” Drew said. “Our team has a heart for service, not just sales.” Drew’s been in the business for 16 years, and opened RE/MAX in 2017

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

arts Pop Art and Painted Denim: Meet Bridget Ahern By Abby Baker

Three years ago Bridget Ahern, a 31-year-old St. Petersburg-based artist, was living on a sailboat in the middle of New York’s Hudson River. In 2021, she is creating digital, wearable and hangable art in a characteristically cartoon poppunk style. It’s female friendly, break-up art that grabs attention with bright colors and dark outlines. “I just want to create things that are fun and full of inspiration,” Ahern said. “But what I make really depends on my mood, as you can see.” Her canvases are 60s-inspired, full of pop art and one-liners; her “wearable art from the heart” is handcrafted with heavy influences from the female form. “Everyone sees my work from a different lens,” Ahern said. “Sometimes I feel like I’m painting like a 6-year-old, but I feel seen and heard.” Ahern has been creating in some way or another for the past decade, but things changed with her move back to the Sunshine State. “I made it a point to always embroider or draw or something, but, I mean, we were two people on a cramped sailboat,” Ahern said. “When I came to Port Charlotte I had a huge patio; it was crazy all the space I had to make my art.” Eventually, she was drawn to the pocket of the art world that is St. Petersburg and sold her work at The Indie Flea, a local artisan market. “Living in St. Pete, it’s such a creative place; all of my peers are always evolving,” Ahern said. “The talent here is insane, and it’s really stoked my fire to keep on.” Years later, she’s showing in local galleries, most recently for Lonely Fans Art Gallery at Coastal Creative in downtown St. Petersburg. She says she aims to appear in one local show a month.

Originally from Port Charlotte, St. Petersburg artist Bridget Ahern took some time to travel in her 20s, and is now creating art in St. Petersburg.

”Make me a sandwich,” on canvas.

“Levity,” mixed media on canvas.

“My friend and I were making, painting, and giving each other Christmas presents one year,” Ahern said. “I painted on a denim jacket for her, and she loved it.” A score of thrift store finds later and Ahern’s wearable art brand was in business.

When a psychic informed her that her spirit animal is a crow, she dubbed her craft, “Old Crow,” and began monetizing her creations. Find more at etsy.com/shop/ shopoldcrow or old_crow_ on Instagram.

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Two Old Friends Bring Life to ‘Satchmo’ “Musicians don’t retire,” Louis Armstrong once said, “they stop when there’s no more music in them.” The legendary trumpeter held fast to his words: American Stage’s “Satchmo at the Waldorf” – a virtual production running February 19 to 28 – is set backstage at the Empire Room of New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, where Armstrong performed in public for the last time four months before his death in 1971. The script by Terry Teachout calls for a single actor to portray Armstrong, his white manager Joe Glaser, and Miles Davis. In trying to work American Stage’s season around social distancing guidelines, Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte reached out to a familiar face: L. Peter Callender, director of five productions for the company, and who has acted in one other before Satchmo. “Who was not familiar with the great Louis Armstrong?” Callender said as he discussed his preparation for the role. Armstrong is a legend and a recognizable icon, but a thoughtful portrayal requires more than a mere impression. “I learned so much about the heart of the man: his joys and griefs, his passion for his music and love of his mother and friends,” the actor said. “I learned about his great disappointments, the rules he lived by and his thoughts as he knew his time on earth was coming to an end. He was an amazing man. I wish I got a chance to meet him, but doing this play was as close as I could get to being in the same room with him and breathing the same air. He was a true blessing to jazz and humanity, as a whole.” The Glaser and Miles Davis characters had to be researched as well, and while there is plenty of footage to help Callender capture the character of Miles Davis, Joe Glaser was not a public figure and there was no reference material. “I had to go by the cadence and the pace of the given text,” Callender said, adding, “These three men couldn’t be further apart in character.” Callender is not the only familiar face putting this show on its feet. It’s

AMERICAN STAGE

By Jeff Donnelly

American Stage presents “Satchmo at the Waldorf,” a one-man, three-character play directed by Ted Lange and featuring L. Peter Callender as Louis Armstrong.

hard not to be jazzed about director Ted Lange, who most famously played the character Isaac, the bartender on the classic television series, “The Love Boat.” Even more interesting? That show is just a footnote in Lange’s extensive, prolific career – and he and Callender have be close friends for most of it. “Ted and I have known each other for over 30 years,” Callender says. “We met in New York City during a screening of his film of Shakespeare’s ‘Othello.’ We are both great fans of the Bard and bonded immediately. Since then, we both have gone on to our individual works, but when given this opportunity, he was the one I wanted to direct me.” The two old friends had no trouble navigating the challenge of being in two different places while developing an intimate performance virtually. “His passion for the piece, knowledge of TV and film directing, humor and amazing storytelling, added a very special touch and professionalism to the work,” Callender said of his

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

director. “He knew well in advance exactly which shots he needed from which camera, etc. Ted is funny, extremely talented and has a sage knowledge for this work. I couldn’t have made a better choice.” For more, visit americanstage.org.

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theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

the gabs What issues would you like to see addressed by candidates running for Gulfport Council? Photos by Gabrielle Reeder the idea about code enforcement is really a problem in Gulfport. Just to put up a fence in my house, took me four or five weeks before I could get an approval and then eventually get it done. So that code enforcement is something that has to be looked at. We need more efficient, experienced people in the city offices to deal with that.” Charlene Myklebust: Gulfport: “Balancing repair of the aging infrastructure and balancing that with new development and keeping Gulfport charming, and not getting carried away, like other Florida towns have. And then the other thing I’m concerned about is some of the properties are in really bad shape, a lot of disrepair, and so it would be nice if we could help some folks shore up their properties and get them looking nice.”

Dariel Martin, San Jose, California: “We moved here, my wife and I, moved here three years ago and

Maggie Gouldin, Gulfport: “I’m concerned with keeping, you know, doing something with the infrastructure to keep it, you know from flooding and all of that. And I’m concerned about gentrification. Keeping Gulfport affordable and charming and not filled with a bunch of, I don’t know, more gigantic stores.”

Geri Eaton, Gulfport: “That’s what everybody’s saying now: We want to keep Gulfport the way it is. I mean it’s impossible, but keep it charming and keep it small, not big. We don’t want to turn it into Treasure Island, no offense to Treasure Island, but yeah. Anyway, not sorry. And we would like to solve the parking problem, but if you’re going to accept it as a humble little hamlet then you’re gonna have parking problems.”

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614-404-4845 theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

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

Commercial Cleaning Janitorial Services Construction Sites “A family owned & operated company!” 23

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TEETH WHITENING

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(877) 880-1212 | CoastDental.com *Free Professional Take-Home Teeth Whitening. ADV – Free Whitening Special – Marketing 2020. $25 value. Must schedule and show for an appointment at Coast Dental & Orthodontics by June 30, 2021. Offer expires 6/30/2021. Offer limited to one per customer. Minimum fee only. Fee may vary with complexity of case. ADDITIONAL CHARGES MAY BE INCURRED FOR RELATED SERVICES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED IN INDIVIDUAL CASES. (FL PATIENTS ONLY - THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.) The dentists and hygienists are employees or independent contractors of Coast Florida, P.A., Coast Dental, P.A., (Adam Diasti, DDS, DN12490). Coast Dental Services, LLC complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. © 2021 Coast Dental. All rights reserved. CD-103226 R 01/2021

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

obituaries

TRAVEL IS FUN TOURS

Licensed FL Seller of Travel #ST12255

727-347-1600 1600

• •

VOGELSANG FAMILY

• •

Tours Designed with you in mind! Full Brochures available on all trips! Over 38 years in business Expert Drivers, Luxury Coaches!

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919 Tyrone Blvd, St. Pete, FL 33710

ST AUGUSTINE & JACKSONVILLE MAR 21-24, 2021—4 DAY

Includes 3 Nights at the St Augustine Beach Sleep Inn, St Augustine Trolley Ticket, Full Day In St Augustine, Tour & Lap of the Track at Daytona International Speedway, Full Day in Jacksonville & more!

COST: $499* per person double or $639 single

Vogelsang, George, 82, of Gulfport, FL, formerly of Westford, MA. George passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2021. He was born in Revel, Estonia on December 4, 1938, the son of the late Martin and Ellen (Teffel) Vogelsang and brother of the late Dieter Vogelsang. He and his family escaped Soviet-occupied Estonia for his ancestors’ homeland of Germany at the age of one-and-a-half, eventually immigrating to the United States in 1951. He graduated from Lowell High School in 1957 then enlisted in the United States Navy, graduating from Great Lakes Submarine Warfare School. He was stationed in Groton, CT aboard the USS Hardhead and later was a Naval instructor. After proudly serving in the U.S. military, George worked for 40 years as a system operations manager at Digital Equipment Corporation. In his free time, George enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, traveling the world, bowling and playing bocce. George leaves behind his high school sweetheart, Beverly (Glaeser), with whom he celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on September 5, as well as their son, Eric and his daughter-in-law, Kristine (Drasser) and his grandchildren, Nina and Jack of Pepperell, MA. Their beloved older son, Steven, of St. Petersburg, FL, sadly passed prior to George and is deeply missed. George is also survived by his cousin, Toomas Tehve and his wife, Ellen and their children of NC. He will forever be remembered as one of the most gentle and kind men known to many.

NEW ORLEANS ADVENTURE MAR 27-31, 2021—5 DAY

Includes: 9 Meals (4B, 1L, 4D) and 3 Drury Inn nights, including 2 in New Orleans, last night Fairfield Inn. Visits to World War II Museum, Mardi Gras World and a sightseeing cruise aboard a paddle-wheeler from downtown, city tour with local step-on guide & much more!!

COST: $729* per person double or $959 single

CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOOS APR 21-26, 2021—6 DAY

Incl: 3 Train Rides & Dinner Cruise! 10 Meals First & last night at Drury Inn + 5:30 Kickback! 3 nts at Chattanooga hotel. Chattanooga, 2 dinners incl plus a Dinner Cruise on the Southern Belle. Includes 3 Train Rides: Missionary Ridge Local, Lookout Mountain Incline & Blue Ridge Scenic. And visit Ruby Falls & Rock City Gardens

COST: $999* per person double or $1289 single

BILOXI GETAWAY at BEAU RIVAGE! MAY 2-5, 2021—4 DAY

3 Nights at the beautiful Beau Rivage Casino Resort in BILOXI Mississippi!, More Casino Visits, Free Play, Sightseeing & more!!!

COST: $344* per person double or $474 single More Great 2021 Multi-Day Tours

• • •

MAY 12, 16 DAY—BEST OF THE WEST—GRAND CANYON!..$2369*/$3079 JUN 8, 8 DAY—BRANSON MISSOURI SHOWS TOUR! - $1169*/$1519 JUL 1, 6 DAY—SMOKY MOUNTAIN 4th of JULY—Dollywood…$1089*/$1495 *Price is Per Person for Double Occupancy

Plus Dozens of Great Day Trips! Here are just a few!

• • • • •

• •

FEB 27, SAT—MYSTERY TOUR—What could it be? – Lunch Included…$89 MAR 4, THU—MOTE MARINE LAB & CROWLEY MUSEUM—Lunch on own.$79 MAR 7, SUN—ST. JOHN’S RIVERSHIP—Great scenery & fabulous lunch…$105 MAR 8, MON—FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL—Ticket Included…$49 MAR 13, SAT—”On Your Feet!” The Emilio & Gloria Estefan Story! At the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater in Ft. Myers, Includes fantastic lunch!...$105 MAR 20, SAT—MOUNT DORA SPRING CRAFT FESTIVAL—$49 MAR 25, THU—HERMANN’s ROYAL LIPPIZAN STALLIONS & Lunch Stop…$49

FREE TRAVEL CLUB MEETINGS! - Prizes & Excitement!!! WEDNESDAY MAR 10th, 1:30PM at Big Apple Buf fet in Tyrone Gardens or on Youtube live!!

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

things to do Dolls, Bears and Dog Washes Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events. Friday, February 25 Sunday, February 28 ReadOut 2021: A Festival of Lesbian Literature Get your rainbow bookmarks out! It’s once again time for a Gulfport Public Library favorite, ReadOut 2021: A Festival of Lesbian Literature. This year, the action will be via live stream with authors, prerecorded readings of your favorite lesbian novels, entertainment from LGBTQ musicians and poets with community chat chances in between. readoutfestival.wixsite.com/ home

Agency. This is a high-profile program dedicated to keeping violence out of all holy places, regardless of faith. 1-3 p.m. zoom.us/meeting/ register/tJYuf-qrrz0uGNWvRqDmjDqBdDSY0kZyoAFY

ST. PETERSBURG FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

By Abby Baker

See your council in action Gulfport City Council will hold its regular council meeting with an in-person or virtual option. Get the agenda from the city on Friday at mygulfport.us, by emailing ldemuth@mygulfport.us, or call 727-893-1012. Watch at mygulfport.us/councilmeetings or Gulfport TV 640. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., 6 p.m.

door gallery of canvases, jewelry, glass, mixed media and more. South Straub Park, 198 Bayshore Dr. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, February 27

Saturday, February 26 “Protecting Places of Worship” Zoom Presentation Leaders from Central Florida-based places of worship are invited to a virtual zoom presentation with speakers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Florida and Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security

Tuesday, March 2

A Weekend for the Arts: St. Petersburg Fine Arts Festival It’s time to find a new feature piece for the house, or maybe a set of amethyst earrings to be the talk of the office. Explore over 100 vendors at the eighth-annual St. Petersburg Fine Arts Festival. South Straub Park will be transformed into an out-

Book Signing at the Tap House: The eXtreme Middle Party Scott Flood, a Gulfportian history buff, will sign his book, “The eXtreme Middle Party,” where he dives into the United States class divide and American healthcare system. Support local authors, and grab a beer while you’re at it. The North End Tap House, 2908 Beach Blvd S. 3 p.m. Dolls and Bears: Annual Sale Get in kids, we’re going to the 40th Annual Doll and Bear Show and Sale. The St. Petersburg Doll Club is hosting this kid-friendly, plush event. All proceeds will go to local charities. The Minnreg Hall, 6340 126th Ave. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, February 28

LESBIAN VOICES PERSIST AND PREVAIL A FREE ZOOM EVENT FOR AUTHORS AND READERS OF LESBIAN LITERATURE.

FRIDAY, FEB. 26TH - SUNDAY, FEB. 28TH DETAIL AT: HTTPS://READOUTFESTIVAL.WIXSITE.COM/HOME FREE REGISTRATION: HTTPS://READOUT2021.EVENTBRITE.COM PRESENTED BY THE LGBTQ RESOURCE CENTER OF THE GULFPORT, FL LIBRARY

Soaps on, Doggos It’s time to wash the dog, and use someone else’s bath, for charity! The Dog Bar staff are washing furry companions: $7 for small dogs, $10 for medium dogs and $15 for large dogs, including a doggy manicure and ear cleaning. Proceeds go to Passion 4 Pits Rescue. The Dog Bar, 2300 Central Ave. 1-5:30 p.m.

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 31

Team Players

sudoku

Solution on page 31

h, 2021 March 6t Saturday p.m. 11 a.m. to 5

Saturday March 6th, 2021 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets available at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar More Info at: PinkFlamingoHometour.com

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

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.

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. 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. TTD 4 MD Computer Services JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair. 40.00 per visit. www.jmswebservices.com 727-643-0697

Computer Problems? No Problem! In-Home Service FREE Phone Consultation Virus/Malware Removal Setup • Repair • Tutoring Courteous, Competent, Reliable Service

Automotive 2004 NEW BEETLE GLS COUPE 27K original miles, Florida car, Clean Clean Car Fax, No accidents, Sunroof, Leather, New Tires, Always Garaged, Extra Clean. $7500 obo. 727-748-9117

1993 F-150 FOR SALE

93 F-150 Work Truck. V8. Air. Long Bed. Good Mechanical Condition. $2475.00 South Pasadena, Fl. 727-641-6535 Caregivers

perfectworldllc.com

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

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

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Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

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Computer Sales

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For Sale

www.omnipresentcaregivers.com Care@OmniPresentCaregivers.com

KIRBY AVALIR SHAMPOO SYSTEM All attachments, plus sprayer. $100. Call 727776-6933.

Card of Thanks

General

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

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

Electrical AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108 Over 30 years experience. Residential & commercial. 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! Handy Person HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-410-2201 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. 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. Help Wanted

HOUSE CLEANERS WANTED

Immediate help needed.Good pay ,must have at least 1 yr experience. Drivers license a plus not necessary. Mon-sat day time work,weekly pay,must be reliable. please call 727-743-0701 after 6pm PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANER NEEDED Looking for experienced carpet cleaner. P/T to start, good pay, day time hrs. Call 727-743-0701. Must have drivers license. 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

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Heating & A/C

Lawn & Landscape TREE PRUNING & DEBRIS CLEANUP Serving South St. Petersburg • Free Estimates • 727-308-8650

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

“Same rates seven days a week”

Lee Claxton, I.S.A.

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

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

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.

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 Plumbing

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

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

Home Improvement HARDWOOD EXPERTS Specializing in the Installation/Refinishing of Hardwood Floors. Make Your Old Floors Look Like New Again. Licensed/Insured CR1858. 727-5420882.

FARMHAND HAULING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Junk Hauling, Cleanouts, Pressure Washing, Wall Mounting for TVs, General Labor and so much more! Call or Text 727-400-8885 for a FREE quote! Licensed, Insured and Locally Owned/Operated.

YOUR COMPLETE WINDOW COVERING INSTALLIATION SERVICE

Hi my name is James Richardson. I have been a installer for JCPenney for over 25 years. I can install all window treatments. Licensed Insured. 727-504-5909 GENERAL CONTRACTOR CGC062615 ROOM ADDITIONS, NEW HOMES, REMODELS Licensed General Contractor specializing in New Homes, Additions, Complete remodel, Driveways, Decks, and Side walks. All wood repair, kitchen, bathrooms, doors and windows. 727-2510468. albertwillis17@gmail.com.

Expert Income Tax Preparation Over 25 years experience E-file for fast refunds

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from PVC fence, siding - stucco wood, pavers, railings, windows and most other surfaces around your house or business including signage. Cars too. Free estimate and demonstration. Surprisingly low prices. Call/text 727-360-7070 Email RustStainRemoval@icloud.com 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! Moving & Hauling

jimaddante@sbcglobal.net

(813) 419-2028 Wanted

BUYING VINTAGE COSTUME JEWELRY I MAKE HOUSECALLS

Buying Vintage Costume Jewelry. Call Kaye 239-560-2816 anytime. Also interested in old mechanical watches and parts. I make house calls. Will buy entire lot. Kaye’s Vintage Jewelry I always wear a mask on house calls

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

Yard Sale

5214 18TH AVE S. Sat 2/27 9am-5pm Harley Davidson chopper, $4000. Kenmore refrigerator $40. Also misc items from the 60s/70s. Real Estate For Sale

PARADISE LIFESTYLERESIDENT OWNED PARK 55+

2/1- Gulfport, upgrades incl. 150amp breaker panel, kitchen, master bath. $200 HOA incl. community pool, hot tub, gas, water, trash, landscaping, rec. facilities. Open concept, bright and spacious, rear patio, carport. Fully furnished-smoke free. 80K. No pets. 613-769-3001. TOWN SHORES FOR RENT—FURNISHED Gulfport Nicely Renovated 2 BR, 2 bath end unit First Floor in Avalon building. Call 678-488-7152 $1350 per month, water, basic cable included. Year lease required.

Pr o p e r t y i s s e l l i n g at a record pace!

AFFORDABLE GULFPORT Beachway Park Mobile Homes

Over 55 / No Pets / Co-op Share Included Furnished / Low Maintenance $200 Mo.

2/2 • Split Bedrooms Across from Pool • $65,000 2/1 • Split Bedrooms No Back Neighbor • $64,000

NEW LISTING 2 BED / 2 BATH

Patriot Square 55+ community 2nd floor unit with new A/C (7/20) and windows (2019). Kitchen with newer appliances has a window over a double sink for tons of natural light and a view of the pool + beautiful landscaped greenway. Breakfast bar opens to the dining room making it perfect for entertaining! $137,000

2/1 • Split Bedrooms No Back Neighbor • Fixer Priced $50,000

Bill & DeAnn Meredith

727-224-5126 727-224-5129

view from porch Debbie Cunningham • (727) 460-5418

YOUR FLORIDA REAL ESTATE COMPANY DebbieCunninghamTeam@gmail.com

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

Particularly in Gulfport!

Sold in the last month:

Town Shores • Ivanhoe #106 SOLD Town Shores • Eton #110 SOLD Town Shores • Buckingham #105 SOLD PENDING • Fairfax #108

Call me, I have buyers just waiting for single family homes and waterfront condos.

Sally Wilkinson Realtor

727-204-6767

C ity O f G ulfpOr t M eetinGs City Clerk’s Office • March 2021

March 2, 2021

City Council – 6:00 pm (In-person and Zoom)

For Sale or Rent

March 3, 2021

Planning and Zoning Board – 6:30 pm (In-person)

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

March 9, 2021

Municipal Election Day Polls Open 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

March 9, 2021

Senior Citizens Advisor y Committee – No Meeting

March 10, 2021

Board of Adjustment – 6:30pm (In-person Meeting)

March 16, 2021

City Council – 6:00pm (In-person and Zoom)

All meetings are open to the public and will be held in the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27 th Avenue South. Meetings may occasionally be added, cancelled or rescheduled after this list is published; please check the city’s website mygulfport.us for updated information and login information for Meetings.

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

solutions

We are thrilled with our new office and can’t wait to help you. LocalExpertHomes.com

727-440-1000

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

6641 Central Avenue within the West Central Shopping Plaza

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

theGabber.com | February 25, 2021 - March 3, 2021

The Gabber: February 25, 2021

Articles inside

Dolls, Bears and Dog Washes

Obituaries

The Gabs

Two Old Friends Bring Life to 'Satchmo'

Pop Art and Painted Denim: Meet Bridget Ahern

Business Beats

Recalling the Roots of Local Black History

Home Rule

Gulfport Candidates Q & A: Part Two

Gulfport Council Takes a Look at 2020.

Skunks, Chihuahuhas and Kitties, Oh My!