The Gabber: March 14, 2024

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

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Advertising Director

Barry Loper barry@thegabber.com

Advertising Sales

Lauren Stern lauren@thegabber.com

Creative Director

Joey Neill

Assistant Editor

Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

News & Politics

Patrick Heinzen cityhall@thegabber.com

Sebastián González de León y León sebastian@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com

Reporters

Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment

Morgan Banno, Food & Dining Serving

Gulfport, South Pasadena, St. Petersburg West, Downtown St. Petersburg, Kenneth City, Tyrone, Tierra Verde, St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille, Treasure Island, Pinellas Point, Madeira Beach, Pinellas Park

Owners

Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper

Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

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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.

voices

Mayor’s Corner

Brilliant writing! Thank you, Sam, for your voice of reason. Loved your suggestions — I agree with them all.

—Andrea Covell, Gulfport

Thanks, Mayor Henderson, for your thoughts in “Mayor’s Corner.” Your piece is reasonable, insightful, and sane. So refreshing in the current chaos of politics.

—Susan Masztak, Proud Gulfportonian

Winway Homes

While I look forward to and enjoy The Gabber Newspaper, I have been receiving a ‘magazine’ about Gulfport living for about six months now; mailed to my home address.

I recently made the decision to unsubscribe to this mailer, based on the fact that nearly every edition has some sort of article about Winway Homes (or their owner) with a positive spin. The most recent March 2024 edition features a cover story.

While I am sure he advertises, this seems to be a blatant attempt

REMEMBER: “...if we cannot depend on journalistic ethics, the nation’s in trouble.”

to white wash Winway. I, for one, disagree with what his company is doing in Gulfport with the lack of character McMansion. And then of course, there is the issue of the oak tree that has been the subject of many of your letters to the editor.

I invite anyone who is also not happy with this and wants to unsubscribe to send an email with their address and a request to unsubscribe to refer to the masthead of the magazine for an email to unsubscribe.

—Lynne Donahoe, Gulfport

Crucifixion Ad

Just want to say that in my opinion this notice for bringing back crucifixions is offensive and in very bad taste.

Does The Gabber Newspaper really have to stoop this low?

Of course I am aware you can tell me not to look at it or don’t read the paper.

My choice. But I want to say I really can’t think of any reasons why this would appear in The Gabber Newspaper. Thank you.

—Olga May Starr, St. Petersburg

The Gabber Newspaper encourages letters (one per person, per month). Include your real name and city, and please keep it short – <250 words. We may edit letters for content, clarity, and length. We don’t print letters that incite violence, include attacks on private citizens, or that intentionally mislead people. Letters may appear online and/or in print. Comments on The Gabber’s website and social media may get printed. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of The Gabber owners, advertisers, or staff. Send letters to news@thegabber.com or 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL, 33707.

publisher’s note

Ward I Election Ethics

Ethical Journalism and Integrity in Gulfport

By Cathy Salustri

Last week, our news and politics reporter, Patrick Heinzen, called me and said, “I need to talk to you.”

In my experience, those conversations are never happy ones, and this was no exception. Patrick had spoken with Tom Bixler’s campaign manager, Alex Duensing, and he came away from the conversation feeling, in a word, uncomfortable. After refusing the day before to write an article Alex asked him to write, the campaign manager called again to ask him to write another article, about a comment made at the prior night’s Gulfport City Council meeting. When Patrick refused, Alex brought up the idea of the Bixler campaign paying Patrick to write the article.

Ethical Journalism and Integrity

There is never a situation where it’s OK for the subject of an article to offer a journalist money to write that  article, and never one where it’s OK for the journalist or news organization to so much as discuss the possibility. That’s why Patrick called me as soon as he ended the call. After much discussion both in the newsroom and with other journalists (we spoke with former reporters from both the Tampa Bay Times and Tampa Tribune ), one thing stayed with me: By being part of the conversation, we’d opened ourselves up to allegations that we’d consider accepting money for coverage.

If we didn’t report on the incident and anyone found out about it, we’d look as though we were complicit in some highly unethical behavior. All it would take is Alex mentioning the conversation to anyone, and Gulfport’s coconut telegraph would light up like Gulfport’s beach on the Fourth of July.

But it’s tricky. After all, Alex, as he pointed out when we interviewed him for our cover story,  hadn’t

got ethics?

technically offered the money, simply mentioned that someone said he should. He wouldn’t tell us who suggested this, and Tom Bixler said “this was a new one” for him.

How We Handled This

Because of Alex’s call about “someone” telling him to offer Patrick money, Patrick  was now part of the article we needed to write. That’s a journalist’s nightmare. We report the news — we aren’t supposed to make it. Ethically, he couldn’t write an article about himself, so we asked him to swear an affidavit as to what happened. Sebastián González de León y León, who runs the San Pedro Gazette and recently started sharing content with us and covering Kenneth City politics for us, interviewed Alex and Tom and wrote the article.

While we maintain our position that we do not endorse any candidates, I understand that, at first blush, it could appear we are now endorsing April Thanos. We are not.

I have made it clear to April that we are not endorsing her or supporting her, and that we are similarly not endorsing Tom.

But when it comes to the integrity of this newspaper, I will take a stand. Before buying The Gabber Newspaper, I worked here for 12 years. In all that time, we never took money for editorial content.

Since Barry and I bought the paper in 2020, we’ve taken dramatic steps to increase The Gabber Newspaper’s coverage and brand — including foregoing salaries to build the newsroom, with the belief that one day we’ll see a return on our investment. We’re working to fill the news desert left by the diminishing daily newsrooms, pay-for-play magazines, and less-than-reputable blogs.

For us this isn’t about who wins this election. It’s about our ethics, integrity, and what type of publication we are.

Our editorial pages and posts are not for sale.

—Cathy

JOEY NEILL

Gulfport Has Spirit

March 5 Gulfport City Council Updates

By Patrick Heinzen

The only Gulfport City Council meeting in March (and possibly the last one with the current council), was a short one. At the March 5 Gulfport City Council meeting, the council introduced the new Poet Laureate, honored the former caretaker of Lincoln Cemetery, and voted on multiple resolutions.

Poet Laureate

If you take the art out of Gulfport, it doesn’t look quite the same. To take care of the poetry side of things, the City appoints a Poet Laureate. Gulfport’s new poet laureate is Christa Fairbrother. A big part of Fairbrother’s role is to hold events, such as a poetry event at the library in April, which is National Poetry Month. Look out for upcoming poetry events and updates in Gulfport.

Spirit of Gulfport

Following the appointment of the Poet Laureate, the council presented Vanessa Gray with the Spirit of Gulfport award. Mayor Sam Henderson spoke to her commitment to the city.

“In hot summers keeping the grass mowed, helping people locate graves of family members, clearing those graves off, and generally taking care of this property out of the goodness of her heart at no small expense of her money and time, which I think is an absolutely wonderful thing to do, and we’ll always be grateful for that,” said Henderson.

Sazerac Lounge

Multiple audience members took a moment to bring up issues they continue to have with the Sazerac Lounge in Gulfport. Formerly Zipperz Bar, residents of Gulfport and St. Petersburg have been complaining about noise and safety issues they’ve noticed.

The first comment came from a St. Petersburg resident named Jimmy (who did not give his last name).

“I’m not interested in shutting anyone down, I just want accountability for the negative effects this business is having on our neighborhoods. Police presence doesn’t seem to be helping during peak nights and special events,” said Jimmy. “Just the other night, a car was doing donuts in the intersection of 22nd Ave and 49th St. S. This was while there was a police presence there.”

Along with this, Karen Love shared an issue she says she has with the business.

“If we can’t have food trucks on our properties, why can the liquor store have a smoker? It just doesn’t seem fair,” said Love.

The Gabber Newspaper  is closely following the concerns with the Sazerac Lounge.

Resolutions

Council discussed three resolutions that all passed unanimously.

Resolution 2024-12 sets up a special event for the New Horizons Band of Gulfport. From 3 to 5 p.m. on Mar. 24, both the Jazz and Concert bands will perform. The event is at the Clymer Park Pavilion, and is free and family-friendly.

Resolution 2024-13 looks into the Fire Department’s personnel summary. To clarify responsibilities, the City is making changes to the titles of some Fire Department staff. Currently, Gulfport has a Fire Captain EMT, and a Fire Captain paramedic. There will now be one fire captain, and one EMS captain.

Resolution 2024-14 continues the contract the City has with SAFEbuilt/M.T. Causley for assistance with the community development department. The amendment to the budget will not be more than $60,000.

At the March 5 Gulfport City Council meeting, the council honored Vanessa Gray, and heard concerns about the Sazerac Lounge, among other things.

CAMERON HEALY

Dog Days

Overheard: March 5 Gulfport City Council

By Patrick Heinzen

Overheard: March 5 Gulfport City Council comments include K9 units, bee swarming, and political affiliation.

“When he saw the big paw print he probably said ‘I guess I won’t run’.” —Police Chief Rob Vincent, talking about the attempted sexual battery on March 4

“I know I can’t gift the police department but I can gift to the dogs.” —Regina Buscemi thanking the K9 unit for arresting the attacker. While a K9 officer apprehended the suspect, he never deployed the dog.

“Well that sounded like a lot of fun.” —Councilmember Ian O’Hara, responding to Paul Ray talking about bee swarming season.

“No one is fixing the leaks in the boat when all the energy is focused on blowing holes in it.” —Mayor Sam Henderson, talking about why he changed from D to NPA on his voter registration card.

But Her Postcards

What’s Going on with April Thanos’ Postcards?

By Patrick Heinzen

If you live in Gulfport, there’s a good chance you received a postcard (or four) promoting April Thanos’ campaign for Ward I councilmember. These postcards came from up north, and each carry the message below or a variation on it:

“Please re-elect democrat April Thanos to City Council on March 19. She is your voice for competitive contracts, clean water, and renewable energy. Call 727-4648683 or email mailballot@votepinellas.gov to enroll in vote by mail.”

Despite being part of a political campaign, there are no disclaimers on the cards saying where they came from, or who paid for them. Because of this, Alex Duensing, Tom Bixler’s campaign manager, asked how this is allowed. Some members of the Gulfport community apparently asked the same thing — although no one but Duensing reached out to The Gabber Newspaper — because Thanos addressed the concerns on one of her social media accounts.

April’s Response

On Facebook, Thanos addressed the community’s concerns.

“You may have been getting postcards about voting for me from many different places. A supporter got a national PAC to send these for me. It was all in motion before I knew about it. It was supposed to be 3,000 postcards one time — at first. Then it became more and more, before I could do anything about it. It was very well-intentioned, but I know it can be irritating for some

people. As many people don’t vote in municipal elections, the main point was to remind people how important these elections are and get you to vote. I’m sorry if you got too many.”

Speaking with  The Gabber Newspaper, Thanos clarified her response.

“It actually wasn’t a political action committee, it was a group of volun-

An April Thanos supporter organized a group of volunteers to write postcards in support of Thanos’ campaign.

PATRICK HEINZEN

teers who write political postcards,” said Thanos. “I know who coordinated it, but it isn’t something I’m paying [for]. They thought it would be a good idea. These volunteers send political postcards all across the country. Anybody can write a postcard to anybody.”

Thanos declined to name the supporter.

Thanos Reported

Although Thanos posted this on Feb. 27, on Feb. 28 Duensing attempted to report her to the Pinel-

las County Supervisor of Elections. He also attempted to report her for what he perceives as an issue with the Gulfport Happiness Survey. Duensing told The Gabber Newspaper his main concerns stem from the lack of disclosure on both the postcards and the survey. He said his complaint turned into a meeting with Gulfport City Clerk Theresa Carrico, City Attorney Andrew Salzman, and the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections. However, the Supervisor of Elections was not involved, according to City staff. The Supervisor of Elections does not deal with election complaints, but did make both Thanos and City charter staff aware of the misdirected complaint. Thanos declined to go to the meeting, which was not mandatory.

With municipal elections a few days away, both Bixler and Thanos are preparing for the best, or the worst. Whoever is elected will get sworn in at the first city council meeting in April, beginning his or her two-year term.

What about these postcards led to April Thanos being reported by Tom Bixler’s Campaign manager?

PATRICK HEINZEN

Ball On The Beach

March 5 Treasure Island City Commission Meeting

By Patrick Heinzen

At the March 5 Treasure Island City Commission meeting, the commissioners recognized a valued City staffer, acknowledged an award for great bookkeeping practices, and made some improvements for the future of the City.

Greg Morris

For nearly 26 years, Greg Morris served the City of Treasure Island. Morris began in the solid waste department, but transferred to public works. He never missed a day of

work that wasn’t scheduled, staff said. Now, as he retires, he sets his sights on enjoying life with his family. Morris plans to visit the Philippines, and take his grandchildren to see the Grand Canyon.

Clean Money

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program in 1945. This program aims to encourage state and local governments to promote transparency, and write clear finance reports for their governments. For the 2021 Fiscal year, the City of Treasure Island received the certificate. The City will get a plaque to show its commitment to good bookkeeping.

Where Are the Benches?

During the public comment section of the meeting, Richard Harris stood up to speak. Harris, a candidate in the 2024 Treasure Island

At the March 5 Treasure Island City Commission meeting, the commission talked about benches, bookkeeping, and volleyball, among other things.

CAMERON HEALY

election for District IV, has worked closely with the City to provide residents with commemorative benches. These benches often serve as a memory of a lost loved one, and can be seen on Treasure Island beaches and in their parks. Storms in 2023 seriously damaged the beachfront. Because of this, the City asked that Harris remove the benches from the beaches, and either return them to the person who ordered them, or put them in a public park. Harris and the City are working to get these benches back into the City.

Items of Business

The first of three items of business looks at a donation from the Isle of Capri Civic Association. Each year, the association holds a 5K on the beach and a one mile fun run/walk. They offered the City a donation of $3,542 to buy and install a water bottle filling station to support the run. Along with this,  they donated $766 to the City’s Earth Day planning event. In three years, the Isle of Capri Civic Association donated almost $20,000 to the Treasure Island Community and to wildlife conservation organizations. The Commission unanimously accepted the donations.

Treasure Island has the unique distinction of maintaining its own drawbridge. This maintenance is costly, so the City is providing $75,000 to replace the nose locks that support the bridge when it’s down. The hydraulic locks push bars into a slot to stabilize the bridge. The commission passed this unanimously.

The last thing the commission discussed is an agreement with SSVOA, a local volleyball organization. SSVOA has hosted multiple volleyball tournaments for all skill levels on the beach. They plan on hosting a tournament in Treasure Island in March, June, September, and December, each bringing in 300-500 participants at Gulf Front Park. This involves setting up about 30 nets, and five port-o-lets. SSVOA will pay a $500 fee for each tournament, and is donating 5% of the profits from the tournaments back to the Treasure Island Summer Camp scholarship program.

Wage War on Pollen

A Survival Manual To Tolerate the Oak Trees’ Rites

By Toffer Ross

There’s no escape. A tree is going to do what a tree is going to do, and the oak trees have the right to their rite of reproduction. Yes, I mean pollen.

It seems to be part of the zeitgeist to feel as though we are under attack from everything, but the oak trees, both laurel and live, have to do their annual thing in order to survive. And, as is becoming increasingly more apparent, we need them in order to survive. So our job, as fellow Earthlings of the Florida variety, is to tolerate the oak rites the best we can.

A Survival Manual to Tolerate the Oak Trees’ Rites

Issue(s): Runny Nose, Sneezing, Coughing

In lieu of practicing medicine without a license, I will strongly suggest that you purchase an over-thecounter, non-drowsy antihistamine and keep it handy. If you’ve verified that you are prone to extreme allergy, then take them daily during pollen season. Prepare in advance.

Issue: Itchy, Itchy, Itchy

Repeat the above because antihistamines also stop you from

scratching. Additionally, this seems to be a particular problem for Earthlings of the Fuzzy variety. In lieu of practicing veterinary medicine without a license, I strongly recommend that you have your vet prescribe what is needed to keep your besties from chewing their fuzz off. The two of you should remember to bathe frequently (I floss the underbellies of the wiener dogs with a wet hand towel), change all clothes everyday, and put those clothes and towels away from where you sleep

for a couple of weeks. The pollen is all over you and you bring it indoors. Minimize its presence.

Issue: Nausea

This is my biggest pollen-related challenge. I’ll feel sick to my stomach, won’t want to eat and, before you know it, I’m having a diabetic episode combined with a feeling of extraordinary unease. Gut health really influences mental health and swallowing unknown quantities of yellow/green oak powder will drive me over the ever-changing edge.

So…? You have to drink water. Small amounts, frequently. Dilute the pollen in your belly. Wash it out of you. If you’re conscientious, wet a bandana or cloth mask and keep it over your face.

Issue: Pollen on car, or house, or sidewalk, etc.

Buy a rake, a broom, a wet vac, a pressure nozzle for your hose. Rinse things off. Be patient, the sky-mustard will disappear one day, then you will get acorns, which will give you squirrels.

Fun factoid. The oak flowers (pollen holders) are called ‘cat-kins’.

Meow.

Read the survival manual to tolerating the oak trees’ rites this spring.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Got Ethics?

An Offer Made, But Not Made Raises Questions

By Sebastián González de León y León

“I’m not going to tell you who, but someone told me I should pay you $100 to get an article about this in The Gabber, but I said ‘no’,” Alex Duensing, the campaign manager for Tom Bixler, told Patrick Heinzen, The Gabber Newspaper’s news and politics reporter. “I respect your journalistic integrity too much.”

According to a sworn affidavit from Patrick Heinzen, Duensing made the comment on the afternoon of March 6, after Heinzen had been in communication with Duensing.

Tom Bixler is the candidate looking to take April Thanos’ seat as Gulfport’s City Council Ward I councilmember on March 19, during the municipal elections.

When The Gabber Newspaper had follow-up conversations with Bixler, he said he did not know anything about it. Duensing apologized and said that he shouldn’t have said that. He would not reveal who told him to make the $100 comment to the local journalist covering the race, just weeks before the March 19 elections.

Heinzen did not take the money. Instead, he reported it to his editor-in-chief, Cathy Salustri Loper, immediately.

The following events come from Heinzen’s sworn affidavit.

A Visit From O’Hara

It was midday March 1 when Gulfport Councilmember Ian O’Hara (Ward IV) arrived at The Gabber Newspaper office in Gulfport’s Waterfront District.

O’Hara was looking to speak with Cathy Salustri Loper, editor-in-chief and publisher.

Given that Loper was not in the office at the time, O’Hara talked to Heinzen and Barry Loper, co-own-

er of Thursday Morning Media, Inc., the parent company that owns The Gabber Newspaper

O’Hara asked Heinzen and Barry about comments by anonymous sources. Heinzen explained to him that “if it’s something important, I have to say who told me.”

O’Hara proceeded to explain to Heinzen and Barry that April Thanos, current elected representative for Ward I, was going to meet on March 5 with Gulfport’s City Clerk, the City got ethics? continued on page 14

Bribery, postcards, and ethics: Gulfport’s Ward I concerns regarding the campaign efforts of candidates April Thanos and Tom Bixler.

CATHY SALUSTRI

got ethics? continued from page 13 Attorney, and Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections.

April Thanos Campaign Concerns

The Ward IV councilmember said that the meeting would take place in response to Thanos’ conduct as a candidate throughout the election cycle.

This was the first time The Gabber Newspaper heard about that meeting.

After O’Hara left and Barry and Heinzen looped Cathy in about O’Hara’s information, she called Thanos to get her statement on the discussed meeting.

Thanos told Cathy “she had no knowledge of any upcoming meetings,” according to Heinzen’s affidavit about the events that transpired throughout the electoral cycle.

When Heinzen called Theresa Carrico, City Clerk for Gulfport, to ask about the meeting that would supposedly happen on March 5, she said she did not know about it either.

“Not that I know of,” Carrico told Heinzen. “Who told you that?”

Some hours later, at 3 p.m., Thanos called The Gabber Newspaper to say she had just been notified about the upcoming meeting.

Ward I Campaign Efforts

Duensing called Heinzen on March 4. He revealed that he had attempted to report Thanos’ campaign to the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections on Feb. 28.

During a follow-up call on March 8, Duensing shared his reasons.

“I can tell you what all the complaints are,” Duensing told The Gabber Newspaper in a recorded phone interview. He noted that the County electoral authorities could do nothing about it.

“They said that they do not have any kind of enforcement power,” Duensing said. “But they said they would reach out to April Thanos,” he added, noting that the office recommended he should reach out to the City Clerk, Theresa Carrico.

Duensing explained that Carrico told him she would try to schedule

a meeting with Thanos.

“I called the Pinellas Supervisor of Elections. And then I called up Theresa [Carrico],” Duensing explained.

The Gabber Newspaper called the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections to corroborate the reporting, but the office said they could neither confirm nor deny it. The office added that if a report had been made to them, there was nothing they could do about it.

When Duensing explained why he was attempting to report councilmember Thanos, he stated: “There were three main problems

Why did Tom Bixler’s campaign manager report April Thanos to the SOE?

APRIL THANOS

that I was bringing to light,” Duensing said. “One was about the postcards.”

Postcards for Gulfport

Duensing explained that his family, living in the area, “received three.” As for others, there were “some people receiving nine,” he said.

“When we first started seeing these postcards, it was peculiar,” he continued. “They were coming from all over the country; they didn’t have return addresses on them.

He added that the postcards “didn’t have full names on them. They didn’t have a disclaimer on them.”

“Someone in the [Facebook] group said she received a note from Nova Scotia,” he explained. “I’m basing it on what I read on Facebook. I cannot validate that.”

When The Gabber Newspaper asked Duensing if he had possession of the Nova Scotia postcards, he said he did not.

“They list April as a Democrat,” Duensing said.

Duensing shared that he took issue with that because of the nonpartisan nature of the Gulfport election and claimed that there’s a PAC (Political Action Committee) behind the postcards.

The Gabber Newspaper was not able to independently verify the PAC claim, although Thanos said it wasn’t a PAC.

The Gabber Newspaper called the Pinellas County Office of the

Supervisor of Elections, and they confirmed that elections at a municipal level in Gulfport should be nonpartisan.

A nonpartisan election, according to the Pinellas Supervisor of Elections, means only that “all registered voters, regardless of party affiliation, may vote on issues and nonpartisan contests.”

“My concerns are, one, there is no disclaimer. Two, some of them said ‘they were done by volunteers’,” Duensing said.

“So that means that they were not done by independent expenditures,” he claimed to have brought to light when reporting Thanos.

“The stationary, the stamps, all the efforts, need to be put as ‘inkind’ donations in April’s report,” Duensing argued.

The Gabber Newspaper could find no statute to substantiate Duensing’s claims.

The Gabber Newspaper was able to independently acquire and review five postcards.

The items at hand revealed that in fact, some of the postcards did say “Democrat April Thanos.” But it wasn’t the case for all of them. They all appear to have been written by different people.

During the call related to the $100 comment made during a phone call on March 6, Duensing added: “By the way, I want to make it clear that I wasn’t offering; I was just saying that’s what somebody told me.”

While The Gabber Newspaper ran a list of donations and expenses thus far in the election cycle, the campaigns have another reporting period to report any expenditures.

Democrat April Thanos

“Lastly, this is a nonpartisan race,” Duensing explained. “To put that she is a Democrat is against Florida rules, it misleads the voters, and because it was sent through the mail across the country means in, my estimation, that it is potentially mail fraud.”

Some of the postcards included stamps from Maryland, Illinois, and Massachusetts. But, none came from outside of the country, and they were all written with varying ink colors, handwritten style, and messages.

Duensing also highlighted that the Gulfport Democratic Club met to discuss a donation to Thanos’ campaign.

Minutes from that meeting obtained by The Gabber Newspaper detail that a motion was made to “donate $500 from the Gulfport Democratic Club to the April Thanos For Gulfport City Council Ward 1 campaign.” The motion passed unanimously, according to the minutes.

On another date, Duensing complained about another issue, this one related to the Gulfport Happiness Survey, which he believed should have included a disclaimer by Thanos.

got ethics? continued on page 16

got ethics? continued from page 15

E stands for… Elections or Ethics?

Between December 2023 and March 2024, Duensing and Heinzen had been in constant communication — largely from Duensing.

The campaign manager called The Gabber Newspaper staff at least 35 times and sent 45 text messages since Jan. 1.

In contrast, Heinzen called Duensing nine times and sent eight texts within the same time.

During the process of covering the elections in Gulfport, Duensing communicated for multiple reasons.

During the call related to the $100 comment made during a phone call on March 6, Duensing added: “By the way, I want to make it clear that I wasn’t offering; I was just saying that’s what somebody told me.”

The day before, though, Duensing had called Heinzen at around 5:30 p.m.

“Do you have enough for a story?”

Tom Bixler’s campaign manager asked. “If I was to file a report, would that be enough for a story?”

The main role of the campaign manager in an electoral process is to guarantee a win for his candidate. Sometimes, it includes flagging issues from political rivals to proper authorities or media organizations.

During the March 8 conversation, when asking Duensing about the $100 comment, he apologized and noted that he shouldn’t have done that.

Duensing argued that it was not what he meant.

“Someone just mentioned that,”

he said. He claims that he replied by saying “That’s not how Patrick rolls. That’s not how I roll.”

“I hope you don’t feel that that was an implied bribe,” Duensing clarified to Heinzen the day of the call.

Getting back to the March 8 conversation, Duensing recognized that “I probably shouldn’t have mentioned it.” He reiterated that he commented on the $100 but said that it was not an implied bribe.

“I would not offer you money,”

Duensing remarked. “I’m sorry,” he said after answering the question.

When The Gabber Newspaper asked Duensing about who told him to make that comment, he said that he was not at liberty to say, and added that if Bixler’s campaign wanted to pay for a story, they could have gone through other means.

“Our campaign could have found any number of places where you have pay-to-play opportunities,” Duensing noted. “I can’t speak highly enough to his journalistic integrity.”

Duensing said that Tom Bixler did not direct him to perform any of the actions mentioned here.

The Gabber Newspaper called Tom Bixler after the call with Duensing on March 8 and asked the candidate for Ward I if he knew anything about it. He said he was not aware and stated that he did not direct him to make the $100 comment.

Theresa Carrico, City Clerk of the Gulfport was not available for comment.

Tom Bixler stated he was not aware of the $100 comment.

PATRICK HEINZEN

Complaints and Concerns Tom Bixler Campaign Ads

By Patrick Heinzen

As the Gulfport City Council Ward I campaigns come to a close, both candidates are working hard to earn votes. One of the main ways they hope do to this is through emails and advertising. On March 8, Tom Bixler’s campaign sent voters an email  asking residents to vote for Bixler. The ad alleged that April Thanos voted to defund Gulfport’s K-9 unit, and referenced a recent attempted rape in Gulfport.

What Is the Ad?

While most of the ad is asking people to vote for Bixler, the middle talks about Thanos.

The ad says, “Early on March 4th, Gulfport police arrested this man for the attempted rape of a 47 year old woman. ( The ad shows a photo of Christopher Williams ) Fortunately, he was stopped by a K-9 unit... The exact kind of unit, April Thanos, Ward 1 incumbent, voted to defund in 2020. In fact, April Thanos was the only one on City Council to vote to defund the K-9 unit... Consider this: If I were on City Council in 2020, the vote in favor of the K-9 unit would have been unanimous.”

The ad lists the source of this information as “ The Gabber — 6/20/20.” The actual article the ad is referencing published on Sept. 5, 2020.

Questions About Tom Bixler’s Campaign Ad

On March 9, The Gabber Newspaper  received an email from James Compton, a Town Shores resident, asking for clarification on the ad.

“Hello, I would like to know if I can review a Gabber article from June of 2020... not sure which issue. I checked the online archives and it starts in July of that year. Tom Bixler, candidate for City Council of Gulfport cites a Gabber story from that month in his campaign email sent to me yesterday,

Ads continued on page 18

6:30 p.m. at Habana Cafe

All are welcome, no reservations, no membership fees, but you must first read the book.

April 10

Gator Country (Rebecca Renner)

May 8

Sunshine State: Essays (Sarah Gerrard)

June 12

The Kingdom of Sand (Andrew Holleran)

July 10

Florida Woman (Deb Rogers)

An edited photo of April Thanos holding a sign that says ‘Defund the Police’ has been circulating on Facebook. This is the original photo.

Ads continued from page 17 claiming that April Thanos voted to defund the K9 unit. I want to know the details of the article and see if the article gives context/explanation to her decision. The Bixler email does not... and the email also shows a picture of the recent Gulfport rape suspect. I find the use of the suspect person of color’s picture and the “defund’ police attack, offensive, and borders on race baiting. ( “the act of intentionally encouraging racism or anger about issues relating to race, often to get a political advantage” Cambridge Dictionary ). And I want to know more about his claim.”

Previous Meetings

The article states that Thanos had previously disapproved of GPD investing in K-9 units.

The ad also states that April Thanos was the only councilmember to vote to defund the K-9 unit. There was no vote to defund the K-9 unit, just a vote at the July 7 meeting to remove it from the budget.

At the July 7 meeting, Vice Mayor Michael Fridovich asked about delaying the K-9 unit to save money. According that meeting’s minutes,” Councilmember Thanos said she could go either way with the K-9 unit, suggested the $30,000 for tree lighting to be put on hold, the reason to have the talk on hybrid cars is about the budget.”

Although both Fridovich and Thanos said it was OK to remove the item from the budget, it stayed.

Answering the Questions

The article the ad is referring to did not state that Thanos specifically voted to defund the K-9 unit. It says she voted against the operating budget for the upcoming year at the Sept. 3, 2020 meeting.

“I think, especially during a pandemic, when people want to be socializing and outdoors, that that would be a better use of that money, and for that reason I wouldn’t support this budget,” said Thanos.

When voting on the budget, Thanos brought up the idea of taking some money from both the K-9 unit and the City’s paving budget to build tennis/pickleball courts.

A few weeks later, during the Aug. 4, 2020 meeting, “Thanos said she is not in favor of the Canine Unit at this time, and provided financial information regarding this project.”

Clarification on the Ad

On March 11, Alex Duensing, Tom Bixler’s campaign manager tried to run the advertisement in  The Gabber Newspaper, but the advertising director rejected it, stating it was inaccurate.

Outside of the date, which Duensing said was a mistake, Thanos did not vote to defund the K-9 unit. While this was one of her reasons, she voted no on the operating budget as a whole, not the K-9 unit. The ad also states that April Thanos was

the only councilmember to vote to defund the K-9 unit. However, there was no vote to defund the K-9 unit, only a call for consensus at the July 7 meeting to remove it from the budget.

Recently, an edited photo of Thanos standing in front of a campaign sign, holding a sign that says, “defund the police,” was posted on Facebook. Floyd Hopson posted the photo. Hopson’s profile picture on Facebook is also an edited photo, with the person being a deep faked mix of Donald Trump, Joe Biden, and Hilary Clinton. The original video shows Thanos standing holding a sign that says “Welcome” on it, and talking about why she is running for council.

Want to know why Gulfport does things the way they do?

Send your questions to info@thegabber.com and we'll get the answers!

business beat

Nostalgic Future

New Ownership Has Big Plans for The Beach Theatre

By Cameron Healy

Not many 25-year-olds can say they own and manage a historic theater, but Hannah Hockman can. Hockman and her parents, Ron and Sissy, bought Corey Avenue’s iconic The Beach Theatre Feb. 29. The new owners have big plans to honor the 84-year-old, blue-and-white theater.

Throughout their first week of ownership, more than 100 people stopped by the theater to reminisce with the Hockmans as they continue cleaning up the place.

“People coming up and telling us their stories. Grown men coming up with tears in their eyes, telling us the memories of when their families brought them here when they were kids and hoping they can bring their kids now,” said Hannah, the managing director.

Coming Soon-ish

The Hockmans plan to open the theater in March 2025. Sissy said the previous owner gutted everything in the theater because it was

in such bad shape. The Hockmans have a lot of work to do this coming year.

The theater came with hundreds of movie posters, original seats, and an old marquee with red letters spelling out “new memories, coming soon, Beach Theatre.”

“It definitely needed to be gutted. It’s heartbreaking to see obviously because it is such a historic building, but we intend to build it back to that ‘40s, Art Deco feel,” Hannah said.

The Beach Theatre will have roughly 140-160 seats, according to Hannah. They plan on expanding and curving the stage as well.

“There’ll be some couple dressing rooms backstage. We’ll have the screen that will come down for the movies, but a roll up for live theater. Have a curtain like a normal stage,” Sissy said.

Sissy explained how the theater will be an event space too. She hopes to have a Mamma Mia night.

The Start of Something New

Hannah graduated from Eckerd College in 2021 with a degree in theater and marketing. She said professors and colleagues already reached out or visited the theater to give their advice.

As they renovate the inside, Hannah uses her marketing knowledge to promote the re-opening online. She created a website to update people on their journey. Ace Muccio, an Eckerd alum, designed the newest logo for The Beach Theatre. Hannah has tote bags, posters, and stickers with this new design. She also made blue and white friendship bracelets that says “Beach Theatre.”

This is only the start for the Hockmans and The Beach Theatre. They expressed appreciation for the community’s excitement and stories.

“I want to honor these people who walk by talking with us,” Sissy said.

The Beach Theatre, 315 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach. thebeachtheatre.org. hhockman@thebeachtheatre.org.

St. Pete Beach’s historic The Beach Theatre has new owners with plans to honor the community and the 84-year-old, blue-andwhite building.

CAMERON HEALY

By Chris Shablak

—Ian Philips’ view on aging

“I already juggle.” —Ross Holeman, contemplating going to Clown School

“Just do what you can do.” —Jeff Lemon’s advice to a new singer getting on stage for the first time

“Plans never go according to plan.” —Steve McFadden, on his weekend plan

“Order a beer, get a shot half price. Why are our airport bars on constant party mode?” —Jerry Ganst, flying out of Tampa International Airport

Comedic Therapy

Stacey Purcell’s Comedy Show

By Cameron Healy

Sometimes laughing through trauma is the best way to heal. Gulfport Realtor Stacey Purcell took on a side gig in comedy to heal her wounds from a past relationship.

She credits her therapist, Mark Sieg of Gulfport Counseling Center, for the idea.

“It started in therapy after an ugly breakup,” she said. “He (Mark) has been a big part of my recovery process.”

Infidelity came into play in her most recent relationship. This led Purcell to therapy. After months of therapeutic discussions, Purcell’s therapist suggested comedy as an outlet.

“We’d laugh at it. My therapist was like ‘Yeah, this is good’,” Purcell said. “Then we kind of wrote it and I said, ‘Well, I’m going to do a comedy thing and a call that horrible ex with a W’.”

My Whorrible X Comedy Show

To deal with the emotional pain she felt, Purcell held her “Whorrible X” comedy show at the Gulfport Brewery on Valentine’s Day.

“My therapist was like ‘This is going to be good closure for you’,” Purcell said.

Purcell could’ve taken the exposure route in her show, but she joked more about her experience in the relationship instead.

“I was going to expose everything, because at first my comedy was kind of raw,” Purcell said. “But, I don’t want to disrespect myself... I don’t want to say some things, even though they’re funny things, so I had to rewrite everything.”

Although it was free to attend, Purcell put a disclaimer on the tickets regarding the contents of the show. A part of it said attendees “must be over 50 years of age and already jaded and scorned.”

The disclaimer ended with “No humans were hurt during the creation of this comedy show, other than myself.”

Stacey Purcell’s Comedy

The brewery’s outdoor stage had the “Whorrible X” graphic as a backdrop, three blow-up dolls holding fake guitars, and Valentine’s Day-themed banners. People filled in all around the stage to watch Purcell’s performance. Purcell didn’t expect the crowd to be as large as it was.

“It was so many people. And I wanted to run, but I didn’t,” Purcell said. “So I went on overload. I just went with my thing, I don’t even know what I was saying... I couldn’t tell if anybody laughed. But, it healed my heart totally right then and there.”

Purcell said she fell into a character and blocked out the fear. Not only did she perform stand-up, but

she sang and danced to a couple of songs.

“My buddy is Little Red with his one man band, he was my backup band, which gave me a little bit of courage. And I said, ‘I’m gonna sing a song too. I don’t sing’,” Purcell said.

With a good friend on stage and friends in the crowd, Purcell became what she called a “triple threat” by singing, dancing, and cracking jokes.

“I always wanted to be a comedian. I love this entertaining thing,” Purcell said.

With all the positive reactions she received, Purcell embarked on a new comedic journey. She performed at the Salty Nun’s two-year anniversary March 3. Purcell said she will take comedy workshops before she gives Gulfport an encore. Keep an eye out for Purcell’s next performance.

Stacey Purcell’s comedy show didn’t come out of nowhere. She and her therapist talked about finding closure through comedy.

STACEY PURCELL

Not Your Average Fish Shack

Hookin’ Ain’t Easy in St. Pete

By Cathy Salustri

Matthew Neumann looks like the forgotten love child of ZZ Top and Jimmy Buffett: long fuzzy gray beard and trucker hat on top, worn jeans and flip flops on the bottom.

Veronica Neumann does not look like she met her husband when she sold him bait out of Aylesworth Fish and Bait.

And, most of all, their fish market and sleeper restaurant hit, Hookin’ Ain’t Easy, doesn’t look like most of the restaurants clamoring to be part of the St. Petersburg foodie scene.

That’s to its credit.

While there’s nothing wrong with a solid meal from any of the many downtown and downtown-adjacent restaurants, after a while, they start to blend.

No one can accuse Hookin’ Ain’t Easy of blending — unless it’s into the background. Set back from 22nd Avenue South, on the corner of 37th Street South, it looks like an unobtrusive seafood market.

But, as with Matthew and Veronica, looks can be deceiving. Matthew is not Billy Gibbons’ alter ego,

swapping his Gibson for a Shimano. Veronica is not a college co-ed on a spring break. And Hookin’ Ain’t Easy is anything but your average seafood market.

All three speak to the heart of St. Petersburg, Gulfport, and countless other coastal fishing communities that have long since vanished under the weight of hotels and high rises. They are the core of what so many refer to as “Old Florida” — a Florida mostly vanished from public eye.

Love at First Mullet

For their first date, Matthew, a fisherman by trade (he started netting mullet when he was 7) asked Veronica to go boating. They’d met when she sold bait at Aylesworth, but his intentions on the boat still surprised her.

“He said ‘Do you want to go on the boat?’,” Veronica says. “And I’m thinking ‘yeah, let’s go on the sandbar.’ No, he made me fill the vat with mullet.”

It must have been her kind of first

date, though, because today, they’re married, and they own and run Hookin’ Ain’t Easy together. They have four children — the youngest of whom provided the impetus for the seafood market.

“She got tired of people coming to the house to get fish and crabs,” Matthew says. They had a new baby, and anyone who’s had a baby can empathize with Veronica’s frustration with people constantly ringing to doorbell.

A Local Love Born Locally

Matthew’s grandfather helped build Maximo Moorings; Matthew grew up behind Bay Vista Elementary. His parents sold produce out of a truck. St. Pete’s changed, as has Tampa Bay, and he’s watched that change. He has feelings about green lawns near the water (fertilizer’s horrible for fish), and he recalls a time, 15 or 20 years ago, “when the water would come out of Lake Tarpon, and it would cook the crabs in my crab traps.”

Hookin’ Ain’t Easy has taken over the spot occupied by myriad failed businesses in South St. Pete. Four years later, they’re going strong.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Throughout the years, he’s fished for just about everything the Gulf and bays can provide.

From “mullet to mackerel, sheepshead to crabs, ladyfish… however I could pay the bills,” he says. He’s also ran fishing charters. He still fishes, four or five days a week. Once a year, Veronica and Matthew pack the kids into the RV and take the boat down to the Keys to fish for a month.

With all the change, how does he see fishing in Florida?

“It’s moving in the right direction,” he says. “I’m seeing juvenile fish.”

From Mackerel to Mullet to Hookin’ Ain’t Easy

That, and their mutual love of the water, led the  Neumanns bought the building and lot where Hookin’ Ain’t Easy stands today. But it wasn’t easy — it took them 19 months to wait as title cleared (with some 161 people owed money), so they leased the space. Then came challenges with getting the City to allow them to open (the lack of communication between different governmental departments can prove challenging for any business owner), cleaning out the property (it took “four days, closest friends and family, and a lot of beer” Matthew says), and creating the looks-casual vibe of the saltwater-forward eatery.

It may look casual, but they’ve

AMAZING FOOD & CRAFT BEER

poured hundreds of thousands of dollars into Hookin’ Ain’t Easy. That money didn’t go to fancy menus (the whiteboard changes with the fish caught) or a large kitchen (a food truck powers the menu), but in cleaning, renovating, and making improvements to the space.

Inside the building, they may be one of the only true fishmongers in the Tampa Bay area.

They buy from Tampa Bay fisherman — and Matthew defines that as people who fish waters between Hudson and Port Charlotte. The fish gets sold to them through Madeira Beach-based Wild Seafood.

“I have friends of mine who fish for them, who I grew up with,” Matthew says. “I get those two-day fish instead of those 21-day fish.”

Hookin’ Ain’t Easy carries local Gulf fish — with three exceptions: salmon, dungeness crab, and snow crab.

But, Matthew says, “I don’t recommend” those fish; they’re not local. Hookin’ Ain’t Easy carries them as a convenience for people who expect them at any seafood restaurant. But everything else?

“I know when it was caught, I knew who caught it. Evidently the customers who come in here like that, because they come back.”

Hookin’ Ain’t Easy, 3660 22nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Cafe: Wed.Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Retail: Mon.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Parking also available at the green-and-white church across 22nd Avenue South. 727-592-1388.

Dr. Shoopak

Dr. Gutu

Matthew is not Billy Gibbons’ alter ego, swapping his Gibson for a Shimano.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Car Show Live Music Food

Wicked Underwhelming A Taste of St. Pete’s Wicked Cantina

By Morgan Banno

Florida is not the first place that comes to mind when you think of authentic Mexican cuisine. However, there’s no shortage of burritos, tacos, and fajitas in the Sunshine State as Tex-Mex has become yet another ubiquitous food offering on the Gulf Coast. New to the already overcrowded line up of local Mexican eats is Wicked Cantina, located in the Tyrone Area. Taking up residence in the old Sonny’s BBQ spot, this is the third location for the Sarasota-based company. And if their menu is wicked anything, it’s wicked underwhelming.

Get a Margarita

Wicked Cantina tries to make their mark with Austin-inspired Tex-Mex. Items like the ribeye quesadillas, green chili pork tacos, and brisket bowls sure sound like they’d be full of flavor, but what we found in our dining experience was anything but. The Wicked Queso ($12.95) with ground beef, pico and guacamole, came recommended by our (wildly enthusiastic) server. And while we realize it may not be authentic to Mexico, we had hoped for something more than simply a bowl of liquified Velveeta cheese, although my dining appreciated the guacamole and flavors (and had no trouble eating plenty of it). Thankfully, the freshly

squeezed house margaritas ($10.95) all but made up for the food. The house margarita is made with only three ingredients: tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave. There are no fillers or mixers, so don’t expect a neon green sugar rush. Instead, they’re refreshingly simple — we’d go back just for the drinks.

Vegan/Gluten Free

The pork verde tacos ($15.95) were dry and lackluster. I’ve had some fantastic pork verde in my time out west and this was the saddest rendition of chili pork verde I have ever eaten. Our cauliflower tacos — from the vegan/gluten free menu — tasted like frozen cauliflower laced with chemicals.

The tacos were difficult to eat with the massive chunks of cauliflower and the entire dish lacked true Mexican pizzazz. Our butternut squash tacos ($13.95) had an array of flavors brought together with a tomato balsamic vinaigrette but the portion size seemed small for the price.

Against our better judgment, we also ordered the portobello mushroom fajitas ($15.95) to go. What arrived was a sad box of burned mushroom pieces mixed bits of onions and peppers. The most impressive piece to the whole dish was the palette of condiments (including guacamole and a large side of house salsa). However, our tortillas were missing altogether.

Next Time

While Wicked Cantina is new to the area, I would have thought a company with two other established Mexican eateries would have their food up to par. Perhaps it’s because we went the second day they were open? Or it could be that they are still working out the kinks when they opened. Regardless, we probably won’t be back for the eats. The entire experience was completely underwhelming for a place that touts its love for Austin cuisine.

Bottom line: Skip the food and go for Sunday happy hour (all day) when the house margaritas are only $7.

Wicked Cantina, 3650 Tyrone Blvd. N., St. Petersburg. Open daily; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 727-238-5440, wickedcantina.com.

EXPERIENCE COUNTS – AND SAVINGS ADD UP

Wicked Cantina recently opened its newest location in St. Pete. Here’s what our reviewer had to say about the Tex-Mex spot.

MORGAN BANNO

How Do You Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?

Last Week’s Question and Results: What is Your Dream Vacation?

Beach. (44%)

Mountains. (31%)

Forest. (25%)

A new city. (0%)

Cerebral gabber on vacation

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

Ginny, Lois, and Jo Van Voorhies took The Gabber Newspaper to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

things to do

Concerts, History, and St. Patrick’s Day

Thursday, Mar. 14-Sunday, Mar. 17

Resilient: Jewelry that Empowers Explore the art of jewelry making through cultural movements, the environment, Afrofuturism, and resiliency.  Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., 12-5 p.m. 727-821-7391, floridacraftart.org.

Thursday, Mar. 14

Pink Triangle Legacies Learn about the history of the original Pride symbol for the LGBTQ+ community. Follow along as historian Dr. Jake Newsome explains the connection between a Nazi concentration camp badge and the Pride symbol. Hear about the stories of LGBTQ+ Holocaust victims. The Florida Holocaust Museum, 55 Fifth St. S., St. Petersburg. 6:30 p.m. 727820-0100, thefhm.org.

Sarah Williams Armistead The Happy Hour with a Historian features Tiffany Faykus, discussing the story of Sarah Williams Armistead, an historic St. Pete woman. Some called her the “Mother of St. Petersburg.” St. Petersburg Museum of History, 335 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. 727894-1052, spmoh.com.

Pass-A-Grille Concert Dance to the joyous music of the Black Honkeys Band by the beach. Bring your chair and refreshments. This concert is free with a suggested donation of $10. Proceeds benefit the Good Samaritan Food Pantry. Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church, 107 16th Ave., St. Pete Beach. 7 p.m. 727-3605508, pagchurch.org.

Friday, Mar. 15-Tuesday, Mar. 19

Turandot To win Princess Turandot’s hand in marriage, one must solve three impossible riddles. One wrong answer means a gruesome death. Heads will roll. Literally. Palladium Theater, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.; Tues.,

7:30 p.m. $80-125. 727-823-2040, stpeteopera.org.

Friday, Mar. 15-Sunday, Mar. 17

Don’t Dress for Dinner A not-so-happily married couple negotiates extramarital affairs, until their web of lies catches up with them. St. Petersburg City Theatre, 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. $10-23. 727-866-1973, spcitytheatre.org.

Friday, Mar. 15

Bon Jovi Tribute Band This spring concert series features the Bon Jovi Tribute Band. Set up your blankets and chairs with your friends and family. Check out the food, beer, wine, and other drinks available to purchase. Then, you’re halfway there, so sit back and enjoy some live music. Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. 7 p.m. 727-363-9246, spbrec.com.

Stand By Your Drag Welcome back show-biz diva, Varla Jean Merman! Follow along as she navigates drag bans, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, and an enormous bar tab in Stand By Your Drag. This is for mature audiences only. freeFall Theatre, 60999 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. $55. 727-498-5205, freefalltheatre. com.

Saturday, Mar. 16-Sunday, Mar. 17

Artist Studio Tours Explore the art and culture of Historic Kenwood. Experience exhibits from 30 artists at 19 different locations. On this self-guided tour, look at ceramics, fine art paintings, jewelry, photography, mixed multi-media, sculptures, and performing art. Look at the map online. Woodfield Fine Art, 2323 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. kenwoodartistenclave.org.

St. Pete’s Paddy Fest Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day all weekend. Eat authentic Irish cuisine, play lawn games, and dress in your best green attire. Watch March Madness games and enjoy live entertainment on the park’s main stage. Williams Park, 350 Second Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 12-9 p.m. 727-612-6686, paddyfeststpete.com.

Saturday, Mar. 16

Literacy Festival Spend a day full of reading and fun with your kids at the annual Literacy Festival. Have a blast with the bounce houses, puppet shows, face painting, free books, and poetry readings. James Weldon Johnson Community Library, 1059 18th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.2 p.m. 727-342-2235, fojbl.org.

Intro to Decoupage Grab the Mod Podge and create 3D decoupage. Learn the traditional papercraft

For St. Patrick’s Day, O’Maddy’s Waterfront Street Party has three live bands performing Mar. 17.

ABBY BAKER

technique from artist Madaline Weber. DRV Gallery, 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport. 1 p.m. $50. 727-3847004, drvgallery.com.

Book Talk Join Friends of the North Branch Library as they host a book talk with Mark Woods. Discuss and ask questions about his book Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America’s National Parks North Community Library, 861 70th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 1 p.m. 727-8937214, splibraries.org.

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey World-famous traveler Rick Steves joins The Florida Orchestra for an unforgettable orchestral experience. Listen to narrations of the iconic sights and sounds of Europe. Matinee and evening performances. Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $5095. 727-892-5721, themahaffey.com.

The Original Gulfport Walking Tour Gulfport Arts & Heritage proudly presents a walking tour that traces the creation of this small seaside city. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 3 p.m. $15. 727-201-8687, gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

Sunday, Mar. 17

St. Paddy’s Beach Party Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on the beach. Eat traditional Irish food, drink Caddy’s holiday specials, and take a chance with raffles for fun prizes. Anyone wearing green receives a free green tea shot. Watch a bagpipe performance at 4 p.m. Caddy’s Treasure Island, 9000 W. Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 727-360-4993, caddys.com

O’Maddy’s Waterfront Street Party

The annual daylong celebration returns. Enjoy with O’Maddy’s corned beef, cabbage, and green beer menu. The party starts at 10 a.m. with live music from the Pete & Dean Trio, Horses Wild, and The Horny Toads. O’Maddy’s, 5405 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport. 10 a.m.-12 a.m. 727-3238643, omaddys.com.

St. Paddy’s Open Mic Drink green

brews and sing at this St. Patrick’s Day open mic night. If the stage isn’t for you, sit back and enjoy people singing their favorite Irish tunes or modern pop with an Irish twist to it. North End Taphouse + Kitchen, 2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. 3-8 p.m. 727-290-9682, thenorthendtaphouse.com.

Monday, Mar. 18

Keep Calm and Yarn On Take time for yourself and relax with a weekly knitting and crochet group. Bring any of your current projects, start something new, learn new skills, and meet other crafters. Don’t worry

if you don’t know how to knit or crochet, the group can teach you. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10 a.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.evanced.info.

Wednesday, Mar. 20

SHINE: Medicare Basics Ask SHINE all your Medicare questions. This Florida program encourages elders to make informed decisions about their health care coverage. Hear free, unbiased information about Medicare basics from SHINE volunteer counselors.  Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 1 p.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport. evanced.info.

Students Shadow Tampa Bay Film

‘Brooker’ On Set

By Cameron Healy

at Eckerd College

It’s never an ordinary college day on campus at Eckerd College. On Mar. 1, a professional Tampa Bay film crew shot part of an independent film on the campus. Along with that, a handful of Eckerd College Film Studies students shadowed the crew for the day.

Currently, the name of the film is  Brooker. The film’s writer and producer Brandon Ransbottom said this is a Florida-based, Indiana Jones-esque film.

“It’s not a period piece; it’s set in modern day,” Ransbottom said. “It’s about an adventure character. He is tasked to collect artifacts at this university. He finds a relic with superpowers and holds it ransom from the buyer.”

Ransbottom is a filmmaker in the Tampa Bay area and founder of Vital North Creative. He said this is a

10+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

low-budget local film with a 90% local crew.

Additionally, his brother Kyle Ransbottom is a visiting assistant professor of theater at Eckerd College. He received approval from the school to film three to four scenes on campus.

Brooker at Eckerd

Ransbottom talked with Eckerd’s Director of Digital Strategy and Communications Michel Fougeres before setting up on campus. Fougeres had a screening process confirming the production matched Eckerd College’s values.

“We liked that it was local,” Fougeres said. “We liked that our students had an opportunity to participate, learn, and make professional connections.”

Penh Alicandro, Eckerd’s digital media production specialist, said they reached out to a film studies professor, Nick Corrao, for any interested students. Alicandro said they already had 15-20 crew members including the cast. They filmed in the James Center labs, the academic quad, and in the Nielsen Center for Visual Arts.

Ransbottom said he worked with at least seven or eight students throughout the day. One student also joined the crew as a production

assistant at their Dunedin location the next day.

“I was really glad they could see a really great crew working,” Ransbottom said. “They are local people. These are all people they could intern or shadow. They are real connections.”

Eckerd College Film Studies

Sophomore Nicole Vogler spent her Friday afternoon on set. She said Ransbottom was very welcoming with all the students.

Vogler wondered about the writing process more than the shooting. She said Ransbottom walked her through the day-to-day edits to the script.

“He basically told me there’s two approaches you can have to script writing,” Vogler said. “You can either write the craziest, most outlandish, lofty script, you can imagine or you can assess first who you’re going to have on the project and then write from there. He showed me how he combined the two.”

She said she felt comfortable asking questions on the film set.

“He was very kind... he wouldn’t treat you like ‘Oh, I’m gonna answer this quickly’ and then get back to work. He would give you a full lecture about the writing process and I learned so much,” Vogler said.

Brandon Ransbottom showed Film Studies students (L-R) Davis Brooks, Kaitlyn Copland, and Nicole Vogler his day-to-day process.

PENH ALICANDRO

17th St. & 29th Ave N

St. Petersburg 345-7777

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com

JewishHeritage.net

Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

Stations of the Cross

Friday 7PM

Paradise

paradiseluth102@gmail.com

paradiselutheran.com

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION

330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach

Reverend Omar Reyes

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

“St. Alban's is an inviting faith community striving to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So, no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.”

727-360-8406

• www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Hours 10 AM to 2PM

Wednesday to Saturday

Affiliated with St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

pets

Friends of Strays Animal Shelter, 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 727-522-6566, friendsofstrays.org.

Morticia Meet Morticia! She is a shy, 7-month-old baby. Once she gets to know you, she will love you forever.

All pets spayed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and dewormed. Pet Pal Animal Shelter, 405 22nd Ave. S., St. Pete. 727-3287738; petpalanimalshelter.com.

Tully Tully is a sweet pup. She is 11 months old. Tully is full of energy and has lots of love to give.

Petunia This 4-year-old girl is Petunia. She is sweet and fun. Petunia hopes you pick her from the patch.

Kiki Kiki is a one-of-a-kind kitty. She is 2 years old and loves attention She is content with her alone time, but loves human company.

FRIENDS OF STRAYS FRIENDS OF STRAYS

PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER

Accounting

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING

Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonpro ts. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certi ed ProAdvisor. 10+ years experience.

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

Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Providing in-home health care services to the greater St Petersburg Area. Personal, companion, complex care, post-surgery, respite care, and more. Family and veteran owned local business. Accepting private pay, VA, and Long-term health insurance. Licensed, insured, and bonded; all employees are W2. Free consultation: 727914-7472. Hwcg.com/St-Pete-Beach.com. AHCA #2999995153.

Computer Service

JS COMPUTER REPAIR

Mobile computer repair – $40 per visit/hour – 727-643-0697; jscomputerrepair.com

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.

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

BREEZE ELECTRIC INC - COMMERCIALRESIDENTIALSERVICE

New construction, additions, remodels, service upgrades, replace existing panels, replace devices and lights, all of your electrical requirements with quality work at a fair price. Over 25 years in business. 10% discount for seniors and veterans, $85 service calls. EC13001724. Call 727-235-3303.

Handy Person

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP XERISCAPING/PLANTS MULCH

Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, lawn maintanence, leaves removed, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Electrical consults available. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Locally St. Pete /Gulfport: 407-244-6045. James: 407-244-6045.

HANDYMAN/ HOME REPAIR SERVICES

No job too big or too small. I show up when I say I will. I don’t expect to get paid till the job is done and you are satisfied. 25+ years of experience. Please call 727-314-5431. Thanks - Captain Tanner.

HANDYMAN SERVICES Electrical: ceiling fans, lighting, switches, outlets, and other devices. Plumbing: faucets, valves, and other fixtures. Door locks and cabinet hardware. Flips to problem solving and rental punch lists. References upon request. David: 727-851-7548.

LOCAL HANDYMAN FOR HIRE Specializing in changing doors, tile repair, pressure washing, painting, hanging curtains, chimney & fireplace cleaning & maintenance, you name it. License and insured. islandwidemaintenance.com. Call or text 631-445-2073.

SEMI-RETIRED CARPENTER At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Clearwater, Gulfport, and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus: 727644-6194.

Home Improvement

Includes bathroom remodels, flooring (interior or exterior), repair & shower remodels a specialty. No job too big or small. Competitive rates with 37 years experience. Call Dave Smith day or night, 727-798-2075.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & REPAIRS

Custom concrete patios, driveway extensions, custom steps, & all types of concrete repairs. Storage Building slabs. Over 35 years experience. Call Mark for a free estimate: 813-859-2023.

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

Residential/Commercial. All phases of remodeling or renovations. Roofs, kitchens, baths, room additions, new construction, doors, windows, stone or concrete work, flooring, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727-410-7323.

DARCY ROOFING LLC

Residential/Commercial. All roofing types - T.P.O., tapered systems, shingle, metal, tile, & flat roofs. Great prices, best warranties. Our general contracting division also does kitchens, baths, additions, new construction, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727410-7323.

JEFF’S FENCE & REPAIR

We offer affordable and fast fencing installation & repair services to Tampa Bay. Masterful with a wide range of materials, techniques, designs. We offer exceptional services & competitive pricing. Call/text Jeff (727) 831-7143. See our reviews & photos at www.pinellasfencing.com.

KEITH THE ROOFER

“Quality Through The Roof.” Free estimates, 24-hour emergency service available. Residential & Commercial. 20+ years experience. All types of roofs. Lic. # CCC 1334641. Call 727-768-5140.

MASSEY ROOFING SERVICES

Providing quality roofing services on all our jobs, big or small. I give honest, hassle free quotes at a great price. Call Jon to schedule your free estimate: 727-477-5313. Lic # CCC1332486

THE TRASH QUEEN: OVERWHELMED WITH THE MESS?

My team will clean-up/clean-out, inside and out. Organizing, dumping, recycling, odd jobs, yard and maintenance work. Free estimate! We are licensed and insured, with truck and trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867.

CLEAN UP YARD - CLEAN OUT HOUSES

Tree Work and Yard Work, Big/Small Tree Removal, Hauling, Trim/Rake + Pressure Cleaning, clean out garages, Handyman, Call Sylvester: 727-460-8721.

Lawn & Landscape

GOOD RIDDANCE LANDSCAPING: 727-265-6454

Great work with great prices. We do it all. Check us out on Google at Good Riddance Landscaping. 727-265-6454.

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from vinyl fencing and most surfaces around your house or business, including signage. Free estimate and demonstration. Call/text 727-360-7070. ruststainremoval@icloud.com

James Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful” Trees

727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

LIC#0700008985

Miscellaneous Service NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber Newspaper now provides Notary Services. In office only at 2908-B Beach Blvd S. in Gulfport. Our Notary Public is not an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.

Moving / Hauling

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION

Junk & trash removal. Low, low prices guaranteed. Daily specials. Kitchen, bath, shed, fencing, etc. Demolition. Chuck: 727-8310507.

HB HAULING SERVICES

Hauling Services Available. We do everything from junk removal, demo, debris removal, estate clean out, and so much more. 12ft. dump trailer. Mention The Gabber and get a discount. Call or text Kenny Baschuk at 727-793-5816 for free estimates.

JUNK REMOVALFULL SERVICE

Big or Small, We Haul it All. Eviction/ hoarder/property cleanouts. Shed/fence removal, carpet removal, garage/storage clean outs. Too much stuff, let us help! Fully Licensed and Insured. Free estimates. Lamy’s Hauling and Removal Service. 727501-6464. Lamyshaulingandremoval.com.

Painting

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

30 years experience. Painting expert plus wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arney: 727-900-3459.

PINNIX PAINTING, INC. In business locally since 1980. Interior, exterior, commercial, residential. Free Estimates. Lic. #C4334. Call 727-504-1508.

SEASONS BEST PAINTING & CONTRACTING, LLC Interior/exterior painting and power washing services. Over 25 years of experience. 727-506-3677. Licensed/insured. Lic. #C-11623

MASTERS

PAINTING * WHEN QUALITY COUNTS

Trust Masters Painting. Making customers happy for 42 yrs. Interior/exterior painting, pressure cleaning, & waterproofing. Honest and reliable. References, guaranteed. Call 727-510-6804.

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

Gulfport Counseling Center Mark Sieg, LCSW, CAP 727- 251- 2319 marksieg@gulfportcounselingcenter.com gulfportcounselingcenter.com

JUNIOR COUNSELORCITY OF GULFPORT

Summer seasonal part-time positions available for Gulfport resident’s ages 15-17 years old from June 3rd thru August 9th. Experience working with children preferred. Entry $12.00/hr. Level II Background check, physical and drug screening will be conducted. Applications are being accepted from 3/1/24 thru 3/22/24 at Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. or City Hall, 2401 53rd St. S., E.O.E.

RECREATION LEADERCITY OF GULFPORT

Summer seasonal full-time positions available from June 3rd thru August 9th. 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 $15.77/hr. Level II Background check, drug screening and physical will be conducted. Applications accepted from 3/1/24 thru 3/22/24 at Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. or City Hall, 2401 53rd St. S., E.O.E.

SALES POSITION AVAILABLE

Commission only. Must be a self-starter, make cold calls in person, amiable personality, and familiar with Mac and Google docs. Local resident, able to travel throughout S. Pinellas. Must be able to lift 25lbs and provide own phone & laptop. Ability to work from home or office. Send questions or qualifications to: info@theGabber.com

LADIES FASHION ACCESSORY STORE LOOKING FOR HELP

Bobbles & Bags in John’s Pass needs parttime help, 4-9 p.m. Great pay, great atmosphere. Call 727-430-0276.

PART TIME SALES ASSOCIATE

Retired and looking for something to do, extra income, or just need a PT job? We are an upscale boutique in John’s Pass for 40 yrs. Sales/Customer service experience required. $13hr + incentive plan. Call 727709-1970 & leave message. Email resume: mailboat@wildtimecaribbean.com

2004 CHEVY MALIBU MAXX FOR SALE

$3,000 or best offer. Nice tires, needs A/C compressor. Call 727-308-8935 or stop by 5080 15th Ave. S., Gulfport to view the car.

STANDUP PADDLEBOARD Riviera 9.2, green. $200. 727-656-5420.

APPLIANCES AND SIDE TABLES, GULFPORT

Single door Frigidaire refrigerator with top freezer, four burner GE range with glass ceramic cooktop, large Hamilton Beach microwave. All appliances white. $400/obo for all three. Also three very nice side tables with drawers, $60 each and bookcase. 813-928-5609

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

Legal Notices

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT Aisha Patrice Wynn of Saint Petersburg, Florida announces the birth of daughter, born Saturday, June 03, 2017 at 03:19 a.m. at Tampa General Hospital. The beautiful girl weighed 8 pound, 5 ounces and was given the name Amani H. Abdirabi Wynn.

Wanted

BUYING LARGE VINTAGE COSTUME/FINE JEWELRY

Wanted old costume jewelry, even broken stuff - will pay cash. Call or text 305798_3350. I will meet you wherever it’s convenient to you.

Property Managers

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & LEASING SERVICES

Property owners! The Blue Waters Team from Berkshire Hathaway offers full service management: marketing, tenant screening, leasing, 24/7 maintenance and a dedicated website, rentahomewithus.com. Ashtin Brock and Dan Heroux: 727-422-3686. We maximize your investment potential!

Real Estate For Rent

GULFPORT RENTAL

Bright, airy, 1bd/1ba apartment. Second floor, small porch, onsite laundry, parking. Stroll to Gulfport Beach and Arts District. Annual Lease; $1,550 plus most utilities. Call 813-928-5609.

SHORT TERM RENTAL

Beautiful second story waterfront apartment. 2bd/1ba. Wraparound balcony. Furnished. On-site laundry, parking. Available 4/6/24-11/15/24. 90 day minimum. $3,200/ month. Call 813-928-5609.

CONDO FOR RENT AT GULFVIEW CONDOS

2bd/1ba, 6100 Gulfport Blvd. S., unit 115A. Across from Stetson. $1,800/month.Water included. Call David at 727-244-0989.

CONDO FOR RENT AT TOWNSHORES GULFPORT

55+; available now. 2bed/2bath, $1,900 per month, $1,900 deposit, $100 non-refundable application fee. Call Michaelle at 727642-6635.

260 SQ FT STUDIO APARTMENT FOR RENT

Freshly painted, ceramic tile floors, new kitchenette and mini split A/C. 1 parking place, one occupant only. Private entry, no pets. Close to Clam Bayou and downtown Gulfport. Rent includes water, electric & wifi. $1,200/month, FLS. Call 727-224-6284.

CLEAN AND AFFORDABLE 2 RM STUDIO

APT Located in a peaceful women’s retreat. Off-street parking, no smoking, no pets. St. Petersburg. $800/month. Call 630-796-5883.

CONDO FOR RENT SOUTH PASADENA

$1,350/month, 1bd/1ba, 760 sqft., access to swimming pool & tennis courts, central heat and A/C, no age limit, no pets. Partially furnished, on-site laundry facility. Available now. First, last & security. Call 727-7761794, or text 727-686-9942.

BEAUTIFUL GULFPORT STUDIO APT FOR RENT Large room with separate kitchen (frig & stove) and full bathroom (tub/shower). Plenty of hot water included. Large walk in cedar closet. A/C. Quiet area with yard. Water, sewer and trash included. $950/month plus electric. Available April 1st. 216-536-4727

CONDO FOR RENT AT FRENCH QUARTERS

6266 1st Ave. S., unit 17, St. Pete. 600 sqft 1bd/1ba; swimming pool, laundry on site. Freshly remodeled. No pets, available now. $1,450/month, first & security. Contact Audrey: 727-677-8114.

Beautifully remodeled home, walking distance to the beach & great night life. 3002 DuPont St. S., Gulfport FL. Know anyone?

1302 55th St. S. (Tangerine)

This three-bed, two-bath home, built in 1963, has 1,624 square feet. It listed for $519,000 and sold for $510,000.

5942 Bayview Circle S. (Pasadena Yacht & Golf Club)

This 2017 home has three bedrooms, three and two half baths, and 3,210 square feet. It listed and sold for $1,968,221.

3001 Dupont St. S. (Waterfront District)

This three-bed, two-bath home, built in 1964, has 1,264 square feet. It listed for $475,000 and sold for $450,000.

2618 44th St. S. (Marina)

This three-bed, one-bath home, built in 1954, has 1,080 square feet. It listed for $399,000 and sold for $390,000.

5210 15th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This three-bed, one-bath home, built in 1946, has 876 square feet. It listed for $309,750 and sold for $309,000.