The Gabber: March 4, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2698

March 4 - March 10, 2021

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publisher’s note The Citizen Election Board 2908-B Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 727-321-6965 Publisher

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Editor

Shelly Wilson

shelly@thegabber.com

Creative Director Joey Neill

Advertising Director Chris Madalena

chris@thegabber.com

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 Morgan Banno, Food Lynn Taylor, Literary Arts

Social Media & Operations Leah Petrakis

leah@thegabber.com

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thegabber.com @gabbernews @gabbernews @gabberlife The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers, advertisers, or employees of the Gabber. The Gabber is not liable for any errors in advertising beyond the cost of the first printing of any advertisement. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced or copied without permission of the publisher.

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In this week’s edition, you’ll find the Gabber’s Citizen Election Board’s recommendations for who they believe will best serve Gulfport on council in wards two and four.

The board operated wholly independently from Gabber contributors or staff, including myself. We have not in any way interfered with or influenced their decision. However, we are very pleased with how seriously each of the five board members took their responsibility to you.

Here’s how we selected them, and how they arrived at their decisions: We started putting calls out for board members a few months ago. We selected one applicant from each of Gulfport’s four wards on a first-apply, first-serve basis. We had an abundance of applicants for wards two and four, however for wards one and three – where we received zero applications – we reached out to residents in those wards directly to participate. We received quite a few “no, thank yous” before we found representatives for those wards. We selected our city-wide representative based on two things: We wanted them person to live in one of the two wards up for election, and we wanted them to have applied second in one of those wards.

Each board member – none of whom could work for the city or for the Gabber – refrained from endorsing in-person or on social

media until they released their recommendations to us. They also agreed not to contribute to any campaigns until after they made their recommendation.

To arrive at their recommendation, the group interviewed each candidate individually. The board also had a front-row seat at the debate on February 11.

After meeting with the candidates, the board discussed who they believed would best serve our community. They then gave us their recommendation, which we present to you, unaltered aside from edits to grammar and style.

While editor Shelly Wilson and I facilitated the group in the logistics of this process, we were not present for candidate interviews, nor do we have knowledge of their questions or their discussions.

Their decision remains theirs alone. It does not necessarily represent our personal views or opinions, or those of our advertisers, and should not be construed as the Gabber Newspaper’s endorsement of any candidate.

While we believe in the power of the people, recommendations mean nothing if you don’t vote. If you agree with our board, vote as they suggest. If you disagree, vote with your heart.

But whatever you do, please vote.

– Cathy Cathy@thegabber.com

Clarification Last week’s cover story [“Skunks, Chihuahuas and Kitties, Oh My!” February 25, 2021] featured a painting provided by the Florida Skunk Rescue.

While we correctly credited the organization, we did not note the artist, Robert Phelps. Phelps supports the Florida Skunk Rescue mission and donated several of his paintings for use by the organization. The Gabber apologizes for the oversight.

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

announcements Little League Returns!

Come out for Gulfport Little League’s Opening Day celebration at Tomlinson Field at 19th Avenue and 54th Street South on March 13. The festivities begin at 9 a.m. and will feature two games, and free concessions courtesy of the Gabber Newspaper.

As the GLL season begins, the organization is always looking for parents and residents to volunteer. For more information or to inquire about getting your child involved in Little League, call 727-656-6957 or 727768-2844.

Chair-ity Auction with a View

Sixteen local artists have adorned 10 chairs and six windows to be auctioned off for the benefit of the Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center Foundation. You can now prebid on your favorite selection from A Chair-ity Auction with a View, even if you are unable to attend the live event, at the Tiki Bar & Grill on March 20. Contact the pre-bid coordinator for the auction (search for A Chair-ity Auction with a View on Facebook]. Pre-bids must be placed by March 18, with the auction held live on March 20 at 6 p.m.

Opening bid for chairs will be $250, and windows $100.

Get Gulfport on the Go

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

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

news Get Rescued: A Tail of Success

JODY ROBINSON

One eager pup, ready to be adopted.

Sandals and paws alike hit Beach Boulevard on Saturday, February 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It was Gulfport’s 17th annual Get Rescued fundraiser.

Suzie King of SIK Promotions is still tallying up the numbers, but she told the Gabber it was a successful year, all things considered.

“We really have such a great community, don’t we?” King said. “It was a little slower this year, but still great.”

According to King, the event brought in nearly $10,000 from local donations, booth sponsorships and fundraisers, but fees from the event still need to be deducted from the total amount raised.

The event raised nearly $3,000 worth of dry pet food, at wholesale price.

“We had two truckloads of wet food,” King said. “That’s heavy work right there.”

Eighty-two volunteers worked to provide a safe, masked environment for attendees and vendors.

JODY ROBINSON

By Abby Baker

Rocking a Get Rescued t-shirt and pigtails, Jody Robinson raised money for homeless pets outside Paw Paw’s Pet Boutique.

VOTE March 9, 2021 Mayor Mike served our community with pride for many years. I promise to continue his good work to preserve Gulfport’s unique identity, build on our legacy as a full-service city and maintain our low milage rate.

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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Discover Gulfport’s Gardens!

The past year of pandemic distancing has been hard on everyone, especially in Gulfport. The tiny community of fun-loving, artistic, recovering hippies likes nothing better than inviting the world to enjoy its fun, artistic, hip events. Having to retreat to our separate worlds has made us all a little blue.

But it’s almost spring again, and the haven by the bay joyously invites the world back to rediscover Gulfport during the 16th annual Pink Flamingo Tour of Gardens on Saturday, March 6, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In a twist on the annual home tour, this year the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce is throwing an all-outdoor event. Visitors will have the opportunity to see everything from an under-construction rain garden to a manicured backyard art gallery to meditation spaces, edible landscapes, and chickens, chickens, chickens.

Feel free to go at your own pace, seeing properties in any order, and don’t forget to fill out your Gabber Garden Tour Scavenger Hunt Card for a chance

to win a $100 gift card from a GMC business! Unfortunately, the chamber will not be able to provide transportation, so they ask visitors to bike, scoot or carpool. The tour skims Gulfport’s waterfront, so there will be plenty of time to take a lunch break or shop in Gulfport’s downtown.

Tickets cost $10 in advance at Gulfport Beach Bazaar or at pinkflamingohometour.com, and $15 at the door. Registration is at the Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd., where you’ll receive a map and wristband.

To ensure social distancing, ticket sales will be limited. And sorry, no pets allowed.

The Pink Flamingo Tour of Gardens is a fundraiser for the Gulfport Merchants Chamber. Like all Chamber-sponsored events, the tour adheres to GulfportSTRONG, a heightened safety awareness campaign that assures CDC protocols including masking, social distancing and hand sanitizing are met or exceeded.

Learn more at pinkflamingohometour. com or find the event on Facebook.

Volunteers Needed

It’s not too late to sign up to volunteer for the 16th Annual Pink Flamingo Tour of Gardens. It’s an outdoor affair that shows off the gardens, backyards, pools, chickens and other delights at homes all over Gulfport.

Volunteering includes free admission to the tour. Interested? Email volunteer@visitgulfportflorida.com.

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

Stop #

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Find all these garden items along the Pink Flamingo Garden Tour on March 6 and you may get a $100 gift card to a Gulfport Merchants Chamber business! Next to each picture, fill in the stop number where you found the hidden object. After the tour, turn in the completed forms in the yellow box at the Gabber office. We’ll randomly draw from the correct forms and give that winner the grand prize.

Name: Phone number:

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

Email:

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ZAIYA HIGH VIBES

LIFE’S GIFTS

1. Anything that annoys you is an opportunity to practice patience.

2. Anyone who abandons you is teaching you to rely on yourself.

3. Anything that angers you is teaching you forgiveness and compassion.

4. Anyone who attempts to control you is teaching you to take your power back.

5. Anything you hate is an opportunity to practice uncondtional love.

6. Anything you fear is teaching you courage.

7. Anything you cannot control is teaching you how to let go.

I live by the Buddhist philosophy that teaches there is no “bad” and there is no “good”... there are only teachers.

What are the obstacles in your path here to teach you?

Unique Art & Gifts from 35 Local Artists in the Gallery!

Linen, Silk, Tie Dye, & Boho Styles in the Boutique!

Help Rename Causeway Park

The City of Madeira Beach is looking to rename its Causeway Park, the site of their 9-11 Memorial and the future site of the Court of Honor – to something patriotic to honor “those we have lost and those who continue to serve our country.” Residents can submit their idea at madeirabeachfl.gov/parkname-contest. Commissioners will select a winner and invite them to the unveiling ceremony of the new park sign. Contest runs through April 2.

Catch a Ride with GEMS

The Gulfport Extended Mobility Service (GEMS) through the Senior Center has resumed limited, essential transportation services like grocery store runs and medical appointments. Any Gulfport resident 55 or older, or residents with a disability, can take advantage of GEMS door-to-door service for a yearly membership of $70, plus $2 per ride. Call 727-893-2242 for more information.

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 Face-

book 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 727-8931022 or email Gulfport’s volunteer coordinator Jim Wright at jwright@mygulfport.us if you want more information.

Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scams

COVID-19 vaccination scams are on the rise. Pinellas County authorities encourage residents who have been the victim of COVID-19 fraud to immediately report it to 1-800-HHSTIPS, tips.hhs.gov; the FBI Hotline: 1-800-CALL-FBI, ic3.gov; or the CMS/Medicare Hotline, 1-800-MEDICARE.

Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly The Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program helps low-income households, with at least one person age 60 and older, with home energy emergencies. The program helps with utility payments, blanket purchases and portable heaters and fans. For more visit poc-inc. o rg /e m e rg e n c y- h o m e - e n e rgy-assistance-program.

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

The Citizen Election Board Recommends The Citizen Election Board is made up of five volunteers who reside in the City of Gulfport, one from each of the four wards and one for citywide perspective. To be eligible for the board, among other criteria, members could not be running for Gulfport City Council in the 2021 election, could not endorse any candidate prior to meeting the candidates and watching the debate on February 11.

Each candidate had a half-hour interview with the board, and all members of the board attended the debate.

The board would like to emphasize that these decisions were incredibly difficult to make with such a talented field of candidates. However, after careful deliberation, the board is recommending the following candidates: Ward 2: Mike Bauer Dr. Bauer impressed the board with his eye toward Gulfport’s future. He espoused views of engaging younger generations and outlined his goals of fiscal responsibility and environmental sustainability. We appreciated his enthusiasm and valued his extensive background working with governmental and tribal entities.

It should not go unsaid that we were also very impressed with the incumbent, Councilmember Christine Anne Brown, and her contributions to the City of Gulfport. She has been a valued member of the council for eight years, and whether or not she remains the incumbent after the 2021 election, the board is sure that Councilmember Brown will continue to be a strong civic force in Gulfport.

Ward 4: Ian O’Hara Mr. O’Hara presented some very simple solutions to some ongoing problems in the city, particularly by his desire to create a streamlined approach to complying with the city’s code and zoning requirements. The board also appreciated Mr. O’Hara’s willingness to communicate with citizens and to examine questions citizens may have in a new light.

As with Ward 2, this was also a difficult decision in Ward 4. Incumbent Councilmember Michael Fridovich is a straight-shooter with working relationships with several local boards and well-earned endorsements; and, as we all know, connections matter. Mr. Richard Fried also had some great ideas regarding installing solar panels on government buildings and is very passionate about his cause.

The board appreciates the opportunity that the Gabber has given us to participate in this meaningful civic engagement. We also thank the candidates for their time and insight, and wish them all the best of luck.

The 2021 Citizen Election Board Robert Barto, Ward 4 Eric Kellen Espinoza, Ward 3 Amanda Hersem, Ward 2 Karen Love, Ward 1 Marissa Stewart, Citywide

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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Follow the Money

Here’s How Gulfport Candidates Funded Their Campaigns

By Gabber Staff

Next week, Gulfport voters from across the city will choose who sits in two council seats.

We’ve interviewed the candidates and written about many aspects of their campaigns and goals over the past few months. This week, we’ve reviewed the most up-todate financial reports from each candidate.

A few notes about the numbers: All the data – except for the average donation – includes money candidates either donated or loaned to their campaigns. We have rounded the other figures to the nearest dollar. For a full list of donors, the amount they donated and other fiduciary information, please look for this story at thegabber.com. If you would like to see the original candidate reports, you can email the city clerk (ldemuth@mygulfport.us) to request them.

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Christine Brown, Incumbent, Ward 2 Christine Brown has sat on city council since 2013. She serves as her own treasurer and campaign manager.

Total raised: $3386 Donations from Gulfport residents and businesses: $2886 Percentage of money raised in Gulfport: 85% Number of donors: 10 Number of donors from Gulfport: 8 Average donation: $191 Cash donations & loans: $2586 In-Kind (trade) donations: $800 Business donations: $500

Mike Bauer, Challenger, Ward 2 Treasurer: Bill Oetting Campaign Manager: Kate Bauer-Jones

Total raised: $3214 Donations from Gulfport residents and businesses: $1175 Percentage of money raised in Gulfport: 37% Number of donors: 46 Number of donors from Gulfport: 16 Average donation: $67 Cash donations & loans: $3,160 In-Kind (trade) donations: $54 Businesses donations: $54

Michael Fridovich, Incumbent, Ward 2 Michael Fridovich has sat on city council since 2013. He serves as his own treasurer; Barry Edwards serves as his campaign manager.

Treasurer: Self Campaign Manager: Barry Edwards

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

Total raised: $3,120 Donations from Gulfport residents and businesses: $1,290 Percentage of money raised in Gulfport: 41% Number of donors: 25 Number of donors from Gulfport: 11 Average donation: $113 Cash donations & loans: $3,020 In-Kind (trade) donations: $100 Business donations: 0

Richard Fried, Challenger, Ward 2 Treasurer: None listed Campaign Manager: None listed Total raised: $2454 Donations from Gulfport residents and businesses: 0 Percentage of money raised in Gulfport: 100% Number of donors: 1 (self-funded campaign) Number of donors from Gulfport: 1 (self-funded campaign) Average donation: 0 Cash donations & loans: $2454 In-Kind (trade) donations: 0 Businesses donations: 0

Ian O’Hara, Challenger, Ward 4 Treasurer: David Hastings Campaign Manager: By committee Total raised: $3808 Donations from Gulfport residents and businesses: $3693 Percentage of money raised in Gulfport: 97% Number of donors: 40 Number of donors from Gulfport: 38 Average donation: $69.40 Cash donations & loans: $3607 In-Kind (trade) donations: $202 Businesses donations: $148

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It’s Good to Be Shellfish in Tampa Bay Clams are back in Tampa Bay, and that’s good news. But not just clams – other shellfish are also flourishing, both naturally and through aquaculture. It’s all due to recent cleanup efforts restoring the bay.

Ed Chiles can’t say enough good things about clams. The long-time Anna Mara Island resident and restaurateur is a major promoter of shellfish aquaculture, not only for food, but also for their importance in the watery ecosystem surrounding us.

“Clams are a great asset, and we live in one of the best places to farm them,” said Chiles, a fifth-generation Floridian and vice-president of the Gulf Shellfish Institute (GSI), a nonprofit promoting shellfish aquaculture.

Chiles, who says that currently 90% of the seafood we eat locally is imported, adds, “We have the water quality, the temperature and the nutrients. Clams are hardy filter feeders, long-lived, and they improve seagrass beds…the perfect thing for habitat restoration.”

Local Growers Take the Lead Chiles is not alone in his praise of shellfish aquaculture. Brian Rosegger owns Lost Coast Oyster Company, a new oyster farm in Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve, where he leases submerged

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LOST COAST OYSTER COMPANY

By Nano Riley

Oyster farming in Tampa Bay.

land from the state to raise oysters.

Rosegger, who has a science background, worked on the BP Horizon spill in 2010. He saw the damage done to the fisheries and it piqued his interest in aquaculture.

“When the Gulf wild [shellfish] harvest collapsed, I witnessed a shift to farming off the bottom,” he said, referring to the disaster-fueled boom in aquaculture. “I saw it at Cedar Key and in the Panhandle.”

He decided to give oyster farming a try, and now he takes the Skyway from his home in St. Petersburg, to Terra Ceia daily to check his oysters.

“We started [the farm] about a year ago,” said Rosegger, who handles the oysters, while his wife, Lindsay, does the marketing. “We buy seed oysters [spat] from a hatchery and raise them in bags…the tiny, fingernail-sized baby oysters are stocked at the farm in floating bags, creating an ideal environment.”

Rosegger added, “We grew about 100,000 oysters to market size in a year,” noting that he hopes to increase his yield as business grows. ”It’s intensive, not extensive,” he said about his oysters. “The bags keep the shellfish together, prevent

predators, and allow excrement to fertilize nearby seagrass.”

Currently the bay hosts a couple of clam operations as well as Roseggers oyster farm.

The Heyday of Shellfish

Shellfish have been part of Florida’s culinary history for millennia, a staple of the indigenous people dwelling here before the 16th century European invasion. The thousands of shell middens they left bear testament to shellfish abundance; some mounds towered 40 feet or more before they were carelessly hauled away for road beds by Florida’s pioneers.

“Ever hear of the Oyster River?”

Chiles asked. “It’s what old-timers a century ago called the Manatee River because oysters were so thick you couldn’t navigate so they had to dredge it out.”

Clams Help Habitat Restoration “Clams are filter feeders,” said Bill Arnold, speaking at a recent GFI webinar. ”They’re bivalves; they clean the water and sequester carbon, but

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

we must improve conditions to take advantage of their eco-services.”

Seagrass thrives near clam beds because the bivalves filter the water, allowing sunlight, Arnold explained.

Seagrass needs light to make chlorophyll, so everything is symbiotic.

No seagrass, no clams.

Though clams, scallops, mussels and oysters were once abundant in Tampa Bay and its surrounding estuaries, decades of unrestricted dredge and fill projects, plus urban pollution destroyed the natural bounty.

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Your neighborhood British Pub since 1987 The Future of Shellfish Aquaculture With all these great attributes to shellfish farming, why isn’t there more of it in the area?

Ed Chiles says it’s because there’s no safety net – no crop insurance if there’s a bad season, or a natural disaster. In 2018, the red tide that wouldn’t leave shut down a couple of farms around Charlotte Harbor, and they’ve never reopened.

Chiles says he wants to see mitigation credits for shellfish aquaculture, where growers earn credits for carbon sequestration and other environmental benefits.

“If I could wave my magic wand, I would certify clam farmers to get mitigation credits,” said Chiles.

To find out if different water bodies are open to wild harvest, visit shellfish.fdacs.gov/seas/seas_southgulf.htm

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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One Facebook Post, Thousands of Memes On April Fool’s Day 2020, lawyer and artist Joetta Keene posted to her private Facebook page, asking friends to share their favorite memes in the comments. Ten months later, Keene made the thread public, amassing almost 2000 memes.

“Certainly on April Fool’s Day, that time period we were very worried about, you know, what was going to happen. We didn’t understand anything,” Keene said.

Keene, who the Gabber featured as a pet portraitist last year, has a fondness for humor and storytelling.

She set out to provide a distraction from the uncertainty of COVID, and, while the courts remain closed, her meme thread is still alive and thriving.

“We will continue until everyone is vaccinated and out of harms way,” Keene wrote of the meme thread.

“It’s been a healthy laugh for me each day and I love it.”

The memes range from political

JOETTA KEENE

By Gabrielle Reeder

commentary and jokes about current events, to funny takes on the challenges of the pandemic. “It’s

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just something to make us all come together, just a tiny bit,” Keene said.

Unlike many Facebook groups or threads, Keene says there has never been an argument, despite the differing viewpoints.

“My friends are a diverse crowd, from a lot of lawyers to a lot of artists, because I’m a lawyer and an artist. And I think you get liberal and conservative and all sorts of just funny stuff in there,” Keene said.

While reaction to the memes has, so far, been without controversy, Keene believes even that would be welcomed with humor.

“So many different aspects and so many different types of people, and we’ve all kind of just kept it funny,” Keene said. “I haven’t had to delete anyone’s memes, which is kind of cool. There were a couple that were a little borderline.”

For Keene, that humor has been the best medicine, even in such a divided political climate.

“I’ve had my conservative friends as well as my liberal friends tell me that this has been a big lifesaver and they’ll take it to work and they’ll start reading off the memes and just laughing their butts off,” Keene said.

“We’re funny people when we’re not being all mad at each other.”

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

15

Drivers Wanted

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

Need a Little Help?

Pinellas County has a wealth 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, 727-582-7781, or visit covid19.pinellascounty.org/where-to-get-help for more.

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

trains citizens to help the community during a disaster, as well as assist the city for things like traffic control during planned events.

CERT meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday of the month. Call James Wright at 727-893-1022.

Get Rid of Household Electronics and Chemicals

The Household Electronics and Chemical Collection Center is open, but for the safety of customers and staff, they’ve changed how they handle items. Staff and customers must practice social distancing, and customers must unload their own items. Call Pinellas County Department of Solid Waste at 727-464-7500 or visit pinellascounty.org/solidwaste.

Drop Those Dead Batteries If you’ve got old rechargeable batteries, the Gulfport Public Works De-

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

partment at the 49th Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S. is now an official collection site. They accept batteries weighing 11 pounds or less, and cellphones – with or without their batteries. For more, including a complete list of what they accept, call the Public Works Department at 727-893-1089 or visit call2recycle.org.

Make a Difference for an LGBTQ Senior

EPIC.org/Generations or call 727328-5524.

Know When to Water

Now that we’re in the drier season, St. Petersburg residents need to observe twice-a-week watering rules for potable, well and surface water irrigation. Know your zones and days, check for updates or download the watering restrictions fact sheet at stpete.org/water, or call 727-892-5300.

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 My-

Gulfport’s Teen Night Wants You

Register now for Gulfport’s Teen Night Program for teens and middle school kids to age 17. Teens enjoy recreational and social activities, as well as monthly field trips, cooking projects, service projects and overnight lock-ins. The teens get to use the Gulfport Recreation Center’s gymnasium, game room and outdoor area on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. Annual registration costs $3 for residents/$25 non-residents. For more, call John at 727-893-1079.

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From Homeless to Human Rights A Q&A with Desmond Meade

By Abby Baker

al University Law School and has gone on to help returning citizens pay off crippling court fees and fines through FRRC. Meade’s rightfully accepted a number of public acknowledgments including a feature in Time Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2019, but was most recently granted the Wm. Reece Smith, Jr. Public Service Award from Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport on Monday, February 22.

Meade may have moved on from his time on the streets, but he

Desmond Meade, President of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC), isn’t afraid to open up about his prior felony convictions, drug addiction and homelessness.

He’s come a long way since his felony charge for illegal possession of a firearm in 2001, and is now the face of the movement that pushed Amendment 4 into succession, granting voting rights for individuals with prior felony convictions.

In 2014, Meade earned his law degree from Florida Internation-

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hasn’t forgotten those who are still struggling for stability. The Gabber spoke to Meade about his past and the future of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition.

Q: You have several drug charges and a possession of a firearm felony from your time in Miami. That was over 20 years ago, but what factors pushed you into crime?

A: Point blank, I was addicted to drugs and it brought me to be homeless. Six months after my mother passed, I was living on the streets like an animal.

Q: What made you want to change your life?

A: I went into a drug treatment facility, and the entire time I was there I was planning my own funeral. I was at the lowest point of my life, and when I got out, I planned to jump in front of a train. When I was waiting at the tracks I thought about how many people would come to my funeral. It wasn’t a lot. That really showed the significance of my life. The driving force to change was a strong commitment to make the world a better place, and I decided to act on it.

Q: What was your biggest obstacle as a returning citizen? What is the biggest obstacle for returning citizens today?

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

website. These funds are going to people that really need it.

DESMOND MEADE

A: An issue in America is that we justify incarceration and make everything difficult for the person returning into society. What if that was your son or daughter?

It’s not about a lock and key, it’s about reintegrating. Should someone be constantly punished for something they did wrong five, 10, 15 years ago? There is this underlying narrative that committing a crime makes you unworthy of be-

ing treated like a citizen, and that is the biggest obstacle.

Q: Now that Amendment 4 is passed, how can the public help returning citizens?

A: Many returning citizens are too poor to pay their legal obligations. We are working to raise money to help them pay these off. If folks want to help, I encourage them to visit our

Q: You recently spoke at Stetson University. How does it feel to talk to people, law students, colleagues, about your experiences at this point in your life?

A: I went from homeless and addicted to drugs to law school.

Whenever I have the opportunity to speak to law students, I take it. Life is more than just obtaining titles and degrees, it’s about the willingness to serve, and I tell students that.

Q: Anything you’d like to tell the public?

A: I’m so proud of this organization. We are just making society better. This helps not only the convicted, it helps the community, the taxpayer – everyone benefits.

Donate or learn more at floridarrc. com.

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arts Art Auction Benefits Black Scholars The Woodson Warriors Scholarship Auction began in 2019 with only founder Jane Bunker’s lily paintings and a dream. Now, the scholarship auction raises more than $50,000 annually and plans to add 10 more students to the recipient fund.

For the third year, the scholarship will grant Black high school seniors in St. Petersburg up to $5,000 annually to continue their education.

Currently there are 11 active Woodson Warriors.

“We’re planning on adding 10 more students to the program,” Bunker said. “If we do really well, we’ll add more.”

Some funds come from donations, but largely from the annual art auction at the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum.

“We want to get as many people involved as possible,” Bunker said. “I believe in these students.”

This year, the auction on March 14, at 5 p.m., will be virtual.

It features works from St. Petersburg artists Mark Aeling, Jane Bunker, Steven Kenny, Duncan McClellan and Brenda McMahon.

“Anything I can do to help these students accomplish their dreams,” artist Steven Kenny said. “They have some serious potential.”

LAURYN LATIMER

By Abby Baker

Jane Bunker and Lauryn Latimer, one of the first recipients of the scholarship, at a Black Lives Matter rally.“But Mrs. Jane and everyone else believed in me.”

Lauryn Latimer was a senior at the Center for Advanced Technologies (CAT) program at Lakewood High School when she received the Woodson Warrior Scholarship.

“It feels good to be a part of this, and know that more kids who look like me are going to receive support,” Latimer, who is studying communication sciences and disorders at the University of South Florida, said.

The annual $5,000 she collected made a small dent in her tuition, but she knew somebody was rooting for her.

“When I transferred from Flori-

da State to the University of South Florida, I was scared to tell my family I was leaving my dream school,” Latimer said. “But I knew everyone from Woodson would be proud of me no matter what I chose to do.”

The gallery at the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum will remain open through March 13, by appointment only.

Registration for the March 14 virtual auction is free. College-bound seniors are encouraged to apply until April, 1, 2021.

More at woodsonmuseum.org/ support/woodson-warrior-scholarship.

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

Art Bits

By Lynn Taylor

Art is in bloom with the Food Forest Garden Art Exhibit on Saturday, March 6 in the Clymer Park Food Forest Garden. Nineteen local artists will show their work and participate in a mini-mural art benefit as one of 14 gardens in the Pink Flamingo Garden Tour.

Artists range from ages 7 to 75, in mediums that include paint, mosaic, wood, cloth and found materials.

Many familiar names will contribute, and the fifth-grade Sunflower School students will show new paintings inspired by the theme “How does your garden grow?”

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will also feature a seed giveaway, tours of the Gulfport Food Forest at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and a plant sale where shoppers have the option to plant their purchase in the food forest.

On Friday night, March 5, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Artful Earthscapes/

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Art Blooms in the Food Forest

Mural artist Kiersty Long’s rendering for her piece of the garden mural in the Food Forest Garden Art Exhibit at Clymer Park.

Pitzen Studios, 1301 49th St. S, kicks off a preview of the featured art work. Shoppers can bid to purchase art in the silent auction and enjoy music, food and fellowship.

For more, check out fb.com/gulfportfoodforest or visit eatbegrow. com.

Gulfport’s Got Art in the Yard Karen Behmke Love, Jill Rice and Margo Dalgetty, working with Gulfport Councilmember April Thanos, took an idea to help all Gulfport artists and made it into a reality with this month’s Art in the Yard.

The first of a series of quarterly events was approved by the City of Gulfport for March 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at various locations throughout Gulfport. Some locations also feature local musicians at their stops. Biking and walking is encouraged.

All Gulfport artists are invited to participate in this community art event, either in their own yards or in others. The only criteria is that each piece be an original work, not resale pieces.

“Artists can share yard space.

When they fill out the application to be on the map showing all locations,

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

they should put the exhibition address rather than their own. Groups of artists may appeal to shoppers for convenience,” says Dalgetty.

“Sign up, save the date and start creating.”

Get the signup form, including a map of locations, at mygulfport.us/ Gulfport-art-in-the-yard. The city will provide a list of all the address, to be published in the Gabber on March 25.

For details and more information, check out the Art in the Yard on Facebook.

First Friday Art Walk This month’s First Friday Art Walk, in Gulfport March 5 at 5 p.m., features 15 emerging and professional artists, including painters, jewelers and fiber artists, and numerous ArtJones artists, including Diane Bragg, Berkeley Grimball and Elizabeth Neily.

The featured artist of the month at Brenda McMahon Gallery is Janet Ruppel whose figurative expressionism in modern vivid colors includes oil, charcoal and acrylics.

More at visitgulfportflorida.com/ first-friday-art-walk.

21

worship Unitarian Universalist ‘Upscale Resale’

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United Fellowship

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

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the gabs What is your favorite movie?

By Gabrielle Reeder

Julie Anthony, Bend, Oregon: “My favorite movie is ‘The Godfather, Part II.’”

Deborah Morrison Clearwater: “‘Shawshank Redemption.’”

Leotis Flournoy, St. Petersburg: “For me it’s Bruce Willis, ‘Last Man Standing.’”

Mary Flournoy, St. Petersburg: “I’ll go with ‘Last Man Standing.’”

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

obituaries

MCCASLIN FAMILY

McCaslin, Vester Eugene, “Gene,” We are very sad to announce that Vester Eugene McCaslin, affectionately known as “Gene,” 63, of Gulfport, Florida, passed away from COVID-19 complications on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. He was born on May 10, 1957 in Sandwich, IL. Gene was happily married to his wife Pat for 47 years.

Gene worked for St. Petersburg College for 35 years. He enjoyed time with family and friends. He had a full life and was so full of life that he would help anyone in need. Gene was a jack of all trades and never minded sharing his knowledge and expertise. He loved to teach his sons anything he could, and they have learned so much from him.

He enjoyed campfires, playing in the woods, and sharing life with family and friends. He volunteered regularly, donating his time and expertise in plumbing, electrical and carpentry at his all-faith church, The Community of Consciousness. Gene was an Assistant Boy Scout Master for 17 years and kept in touch with several of his scouts to this day.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia E. (Masters) McCaslin, three sons: Jeffery A. McCaslin (Patty), Justin E. McCaslin (Donna) and Robert E. McCaslin (Miranda); four grandchildren: Michael, Jamie, David and Elizabeth; one great grandson, Elijah. He is survived by his sister, Connie Watts (John) and his brother, Vincent McCaslin (Nancy), as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gene was preceded in death by both of his parents, Vester L. McCaslin and Betty Lois (Saunders) McCaslin, and his sister, Sharon Kay McCaslin.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 15.

Due to the continued COVID-19 outbreak, face masks will be required of all attendees to ensure everyone’s safety.

The location in Spring Hill, Florida and event time is to be determined. We plan to cater this event so please RSVP

by May 1 if you will be in attendance at 813-298-6742.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Gene’s church, The Community of Consciousness Church. To make donations please go to commofcon.com.

C ity O f G ulfpOr t E lECtiOns GULFPORT MUNICIPAL ELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 9, 2021

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POLLING PLACES – 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

LUGARES DE VOTACIÓN – 7:00 a.m. a 7:00 p.m.

203, 206, 207 & 218 ������������� Gulfport City Hall 2401 53rd St� S�

203, 206, 207 y 218������ Ayuntamiento de Gulfport 2401 53rd St� S�

208 ����������������������Gulfport Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd� S�

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

25

things to do Outdoor Art, Walks and Garden Tours

By Abby Baker

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

Friday, March 5 Gulfport First Friday Art Walk So much art, so little time. It’s the First Friday Art Walk in Gulfport again and Beach Boulevard will be filled with creations ready to come home with you. The available pieces have been handpicked from a group of local artists. In addition, downtown boutiques and dining options abound for your shopping pleasure, but social distancing and mask mandates are enforced. Beach Boulevard Gulfport. 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, March 6 Bring Your Books for a Library Donation Drive Looking to free your shelves of last year’s cookbooks and quarantine reads? The Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Public Library is sponsoring a socially distanced, drive-through book drop. Aside from textbooks and encyclopedias, all gently used books – within a two carton limit – will be accepted for either resale in the book shop, or as much-needed equipment for the library. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave., S. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Discover the Pink Flamingo Garden Tour Explore Gulfport’s bright, art-filled neighborhoods with the

Tuesday, March 9 Election Day in Gulfport! Get involved and cast a vote for Ward 2 and Ward 4 candidates for Gulfport City Council, at either the Gulfport Recreation Center, City Hall or the Neighborhood Center, depending on your location. Contact the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections for a mail-in ballot. More at mygulfport.us/gulfport-municipal-election-information.

annual Pink Flamingo Home Tour.

Things are slightly different this year: The tour will be completely outdoors, with a focus on gardens, and self-guided with a tour book available at registration. Gulfport. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. pinkflamingohometour. com Outdoor Art Exhibit in Clymer Park Hey plant lovers, if you’re attending the Pink Flamingo Garden Tour, add this must-do on your list. The Gulfport Food Forest will be on the tour, and is hosting an outdoor art exhibit with a silent auction for mini murals in Clymer Park. Make sure to stop by at 1 and 3 p.m. for seed giveaways and tours; homegrown greenery will be on sale all day. Clymer Park, 5501 27th Ave. S. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Moonlit Drum Circle on Gulfport Beach Jump into an energy exchange under the full moon with Take5meditations – there’s plenty of drums and good vibes to go around. This is a donation-based event, so bring generosity to the beach. Gulfport Beach, Shore Boulevard between 54th and 58th St. S. 7 p.m.

Monday, March 8

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Monday Morning Walking Club Walk a mile every Monday with the Monday Morning Walking Club – you can thank yourself later. The meeting locations vary each week. Call 727893-5657 for more. 9 a.m.

Tuesday, March 9 Traveling Art Project: SPACEcraft Explore repurposed, environmentally friendly shipping containers in Lealman Neighborhood Park. This public art project was created by artists Carrie Boucher, Bridget Elmer and Mitzi Gordon. There will be hands-on creative activities and public art. What else can you ask for? Lealman Neighborhood Park, 3800 55th Ave. N. 4-6 p.m.

26

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 31

Stylish

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 | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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CLASSIFIEDS Accounting 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.

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

Airing of Grievances

TIME FOR CITY COUNCIL TO BE TRUTHFUL

When will the Gulfport City Council show respect for their city attorney’s legal opinion and the City’s legislative history and put it in truthful context in the minutes of 10/1/2019. Time to hold the council accountable for TRUTH and TRANSPARENCY! Automotive CHEVY IMPALA LT FOR SALE 2012 CHEVY IMPALA LT ONLY 30000 MILES. IT’S IN “GREAT SHAPE”. MUST SEE! $10,000 as is.

Great on gas. Call 727-304-7514 Card of Thanks

O HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine.

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,

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If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. after surgery care, 24-hour care, dementia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472 www.hwcg.com/ St-Pete-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 Free In-Home Consultation / RN Assessment

CALL TODAY 727-381-7498 www.omnipresentcaregivers.com Care@OmniPresentCaregivers.com 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

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

COMPANION BURIAL PLOTS IN MEMORIAL PARK, PINELLAS

Memorial Park, 4900 54th Avenue North Saint Petersburg, FL. Two side-by-side burial plots in a quiet beautiful area near the South Mausoleum lake. Lots 20-21, Block 9, Division L. Originally purchased in 1975. $3500/both. Call or text Ernest: 727815-2046.

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.

Help Wanted ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT PARTTIME Daily tasks include answering phone calls, checking voice mail, reading and answering emails, copies, scans and faxing, filing, typing correspondence as well as assisting other staff members of the company. Must be good on the phone and have reliable transportation. Send resume to info@tvpm. org.

NEED GOOGLE DRIVE TUTOR Looking for someone to tutor me in Google Drive features in order to create folders, develop presentations, etc. Must be Mac proficient.

Please e-mail Char at ckmyklebust@gmail. com with hourly rate.

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

Help Wanted RECREATION LEADER - City of Gulfport.

Summer seasonal full-time positions available from June 14 th thru July 30 th . Education/experience preferred in education, physical education or child care. Knowledge of recreational activities including games, arts & crafts and sports. Minimum qualifications include high school diploma or equivalency.

Entry $12.702/hr. Level II Background check, drug screening and physical will be conducted. Applications accepted from 3/15/21 thru 3/31/21 at Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. or City Hall, 2401 - 53rd St. S., E.O.E.

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Heating & A/C

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

JUNIOR COUNSELOR - City of Gulfport.

Summer seasonal part-time positions available for Gulfport resident’s ages 15-17 years old from June 14 th thru July 30th. Experience working with children preferred. Entry $8.56/hr. Level II Background check and drug screening will be conducted. Applications are being accepted from 3/15/21 thru 3/31/21 at Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. or City Hall, 2401 - 53rd St. S., E.O.E.

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

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

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 Home Improvement

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.

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

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.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

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727831-0507.

theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

Painting

MASTERS PAINTING When Quality Counts. Trust Masters Painting. Making Happy Customers for 37yrs. Pressure Cleaning, Waterproofing, Honest, Reliable. 727-344-1674. 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.

Yard Sale

TWO HOUSEHOLDS YARD SALE Friday, Saturday, Sunday, March 5, 6, 7. 5962 48th Avenue. N., Kenneth City. 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Household, Furniture, This and That

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Professional Services

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

jimaddante@sbcglobal.net

(813) 419-2028 Real Estate Wanted

WANTED TO RENT Senior lady wants room, efficiency, or one bedroom. Call 727221-3060 Real Estate For Sale

PARADISE LIFESTYLERESIDENT OWNED PARK 55+

CONDO FOR SALE, POINT BRITTANY ST.PETE

Condo for sale, point brittany bayway isles, st.Petersburg. Renovated large 1 bedroom 1.5 Bath plus den with murphy bed. Million dollar water views including skyway bridge.

Plently of storage. Covered garage parking.

Call or text 813 766-5509.

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

NEW! TOWN SHORES KENMORE DELUXE 1BD/1BA

Unit 102 with 1060SF. 55+. Rare first floor unit. Updated kitchen and bath with newer AC and hurricane impact windows. Inviting patio steps from heated swimming pool.

Nearby grocery and restaurants. $165,000.

Call/text Sharon Lardieri,Wave Realty of Tampa Bay, 727-455-3556.

For Sale or Rent

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

YOUR FLORIDA REAL ESTATE COMPANY DebbieCunninghamTeam@gmail.com

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

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.

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

SMALL TOWN

BIG ART First Friday of Every Month Downtown Gulfport 3101 Beach Blvd. S.

5 - 9 PM For more information: VisitGulfportFlorida.com/first-friday-art-walk

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

solutions

PROFESSIONAL FLEX OFFICE BUILDING FOR SALE!!!

Phenomenal “FLEX OFFICE” complex building ideally located in central St Pete comes complete with stable tenants! The 4000 sq.ft + professional office building is designed to offer 4 separate office suites but currently is structured with 3 tenants - middle office space is HUGE with many private offices. Options are unlimited! You could occupy some of the space with your business and collect revenue while you remodel to suit!

Amazing exterior signage off busy 1st Ave S and plenty of open parking make this office complex an awesome find! Call Marie Drew today for an appointment to view at 727657-1259. Priced to sell!!!

5701 1ST AVE SOUTH

Marie Drew 727-657-1259

mdrew@remax.net 6641 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | MarieDrew.com theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021

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AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFESTYLE, A FANTASTIC BAYSIDE LOCATION With incredible views, beautiful residences with wide-ranging options and exceptional programming and entertainment, you’d think you’d have to be a millionaire to live here, but it’s just not true. Our affordable, straightforward rental rates make The Fountains the best waterfront value in St. Petersburg. Studios starting at just $1,695 per month include just what you need to enjoy retirement to the fullest. Let our resident relations services handle all the details from social services to programs, benefits and more so you can make a smooth, easy transition and start living well.

When it comes to the best views, the best value and the best vibe, you just can’t beat The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay. The only thing missing is you.

Call 727-381-5411 today to join us for a complimentary lunch and tour.

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

FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083

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

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theGabber.com | March 4, 2021 - March 10, 2021