Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2702
April 1 - April 7, 2021
Some bunny hid all their eggs throughout the paper this week. Can you find them all?
Vaccine Eligibility Expands P.12
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Reporters & Contributors Abby Baker, News & Events Jeff Donnelly, Theater Sheree Greer, Advice June Johns, Photographer Jon Kile, Columnist Ryan McGahan, News Gabrielle Reeder, Gabs & News Nano Riley, Environment Jen Ring, Food & Culture Morgan Banno, Food Lynn Taylor, Literary Arts
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announcements Get Involved in Gulfport The Gulfport Merchants Chamber could always use your help. Here’s how you can be involved with Gulfport. First Friday Art Walk and Third Saturday Indie Night Market need volunteers to assist artists with set-up, as well as ambassadors to stroll the event and help direct people and answer questions. This is a great way to meet your neighbors and get involved with your community. Email volunteer@visitgulfportflorida.com for more.
Apply for an Artist Grant The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, is accepting applications for the Individual Artist Grant Program. Now in its fifth year, these 15 grants provide financial assistance to St. Petersburg resident artists for specific projects. The program is designed to support public engagement of individual work in visual arts, craft arts, dance, music, theater or literature. The applicant’s resume must show commitment to the art form through education, training or professional experience, and must show evidence of exhibition, public performance or being published during the past two years. Applicants may request funding up to $1,000. The grant pe-
Gulfport gathers
riod is May 1 through September 18. Apply online before April 30 at stpeteartsalliance.org/spaa-individual-artist-grant-program-guidelines.
Be a Part of History Do you have some extra time? Looking to get out of the house? The Gulfport Historical Society has some open volunteer opportunities. They need volunteers to docent at the museum, as well as painters to get the Art Center ready for its grand opening. They also need people to donate paint (or gift cards to a local hardware store) – for the gallery walls. Additionally, they need help with some handyman projects at the Art Center. COVID-19 protocols in place with masks and social distancing. Email info@gulfporthistoricalsociety.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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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
news Art in the Yard Goes Big
Double the Expected Artists Come Out for Gulfport’s Newest Event
ABBY BAKER
ABBY BAKER
By Abby Baker
“I’m not your typical Gulfport artist,” Cindy Heidel said at her set-up outside The Boulevard Shoppe. “I don’t do sunsets and seagulls.”
ABBY BAKER
“This is my first art event ever,” Vaiana Cane said. “I think this entire event is a wonderful opportunity for people to get their art out there and not have to go through a gallery.”
Gulfport’s first Art in the Yard featured more than 80 artists displaying their work in a yard sale-style event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 27. By noon, Margo Dalgetty, the artist who originally pushed for the event, hadn’t even had a chance to grab a cup of coffee – the yard shoppers just kept coming. “We had double the amount of participating artists,” Dalgetty said. “It really scratched an itch with people here in Gulfport.” The entirety of the artistic hamlet was filled with creators selling everything from dog-tooth necklaces to painted bicycles.
ABBY BAKER
“I came to Gulfport in 1991 when I was broke and waitressing,” artist Joanna Pheil said. “I started as a potter making signs and it just took off.”
Art in the Yard “instigator” Margo Dalgetty opened her home and studio space for the event. The studio’s front lawn, at 3113 57th St. S., was decorated with artist tents.
“The biggest problem is that it’s only happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,” Wendy Rosen, who is on Art in the Yard’s marketing team, told the Gabber on Saturday. “Everyone is having a great time – I just want to see it happen for longer.”
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
According to Dalgetty, a team of art advocates will discuss the possibility of making the event a series, but the details are still up in the air. See more photos with this article at thegabber.com.
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Get Rid of 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 727-4647500 or visit pinellascounty.org/ solidwaste.
Know When to Water 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.
Make a Difference for an LGBTQ Senior One in five seniors experience the loneliness of social isolation, and LGBTQ individuals are more likely to experience it, according to EPIC Generation. That’s why the organization created the Friendly Caller Program, which fosters multigenerational connections in the LGBTQ community through regular phone
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calls by trained volunteers. These volunteers offer social support, share meaningful conversations, promote lasting friendships and provide community referrals. Learn more or sign up to volunteer at MyEPIC.org/Generations or call 727328-5524.
Donate to the Senior Center Pantry Got extra food? If you do, the Gulfport Senior Center Pantry needs it. They’re looking for non-perishables like tuna, peanut butter, dry cereal, pasta sauce, soups and canned meats. Any Gulfport resident 50 and older can use the pantry. The Senior Center keeps the pantry open from 1 to 3 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. If you have food to donate, drop it off anytime. If you could use food, bring your photo ID, a utility bill, or bank statement (to prove residence) and your SSI proof of income. Wondering if you can use the pantry? Call Rachel at 727-893-1231.
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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
Man Hits House in Single-Car Crash By Abby Baker
LAKIA HINSON
A man driving a pick-up truck veered off the road and crashed into a St. Petersburg house shortly after 9 a.m. on Sunday, March 28. According to the St. Petersburg Police Department, the man, driving alone, pulled off 49th Street after passing 5th Avenue North. “He hit a curb, a sign, went through an empty lot, and drove over some bushes before he made contact with the house,” police spokesperson Yolanda Fernandez said. “The house is liveable, but he is in bad condition.” The driver sustained life-threatening injuries; police have not yet released his name. The accident is still under investigation. “We do not know the reason for the accident at this time,” Fernandez said.
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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
dear gabby: love & friendship
A quote from “Love Jones,” one of my favorite movies, goes something like, “Love is what you make and with whom you make it. Algebra it ain’t.” I’ve always taken that to mean that love has no formula and follows no timetable. What love creates, though, is vulnerability, which is part of what makes communicating love so scary.
It’s a risk, it’s a wish and a hope, in terms of reciprocity. What if you were to take the pressure off by making it more a conversation and less a declaration? Talking about how you feel in a romantic relationship doesn’t always have to be some built-up, anxiety-laden “we need to talk about where this is going” conversation. Start small, letting him know what you appreciate about him and about your relationship. Then, encourage a conversation where you both talk about what you appreciate about each other, being honest about your feelings, all the while holding space for him to share his feelings, whatever they may be. Instead of being afraid he won’t reciprocate, remember that there is no timetable or magic formula, so even if he doesn’t feel exactly the way you do at the same time as you, it doesn’t mean he isn’t on his way.
A Milwaukee native, Sheree L. Greer is a local textbased artist, educator and taco lover. In 2014, she founded Kitchen Table Literary Arts to showcase and support the work of Black women and women of color writers and is the author of two novels, “Let the Lover Be” and “A Return to Arms.”
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This isn’t embarrassing at all! It’s a timely and important question! Meeting friends is both more difficult and easier than ever before. On the difficult side, and I’m not even talking about our current pandemic, we’ve got the allure of streaming videos, online games and mobile apps. People will literally be at a bar with their face in a phone watching Netflix or playing Angry Birds 2. How you gonna lock eyes with your person or find a new bestie if you’re looking down scrolling and swiping? But, on the easier side, we’ve got apps and online groups that promote and plan in-person activities and meet-ups where friends you haven’t met yet abound! What do we do? We take the opportunities and leave the rest. Take a chance and find a bar, lounge, restaurant or gym that YOU enjoy and become a regular. You might meet other regulars and strike up friendships based on shared interests or shared appreciation for the same drink, dish or weight machine. You can absolutely join a club or even take an art, cooking, swimming or motorcycle riding class to meet people and learn a new skill. And where can you find out about the variety of options for places to go and people to meet? Online! Use platforms like MeetUp, Eventbrite and Thrillest to get information on the activities and places
I’ve been dating a guy for about four months and I admit I’m pretty smitten. I’m sure he feels the same way – well, I hope he does. My question is simple: How long do I wait before I tell him I’m in love? And what do I do if he doesn’t say it back?
This is kind of an embarrassing question to ask, but I’m feeling pretty clueless. How do I make new friends? I’m in my 20s, and I’ve never had a lot of friends. It’s just not something I’ve ever been good at. And it seems much harder now that I’m out of school. I don’t understand how people meet – should I go to a bar? Join a club? How do people do it?
where people are out and about, having fun and making connections. Be open, be kind and be patient. Friendships can take time to develop and can come from the most unexpected places!
The Gabber’s semi-regular advice column, Dear Gabby, is here by reader demand. Have a question or a conundrum for Gabby? There’s no problem too small for our resident advisor. Send your questions – they can be anonymous – to deargabby@ thegabber.com.
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Bogie Gets Lacrosse
The Rookie Teams’ Winless Record Can’t Dampen Their Enthusiasm
On the Team BCHS volleyball coach Lauren Lovino has been coaching volleyball at the school for 13 years.
ABBY BAKER
With student participation in sports on the decline since the pandemic, Boca Ciega High School took a risk with the inclusion of a sport not often seen in the south – lacrosse. “There was a lot of trepidation about kids being involved in sports; numbers were down for all sports, not just here, but in Pinellas County altogether,” said Bob Medici, athletic coordinator and boys lacrosse coach at BCHS. In the winter of 2020, faculty at the high school, alongside BCHS principal Michael Vigue, established a dialogue regarding lacrosse. Vigue, originally from the Northern U.S. where lacrosse is more common, pushed for the team. An interest survey revealed budding enthusiasm for the sport. The result? Two teams, boys and girls, started in March. “What our numbers told us is that we would be very close to guidelines set by Pinellas County Schools, but we should have it.” Medici said. “At that point, we committed and here we are.” On March 11, both the girls and boys teams competed against Osceola High School. Of course, with a majority of the BCHS players new to the sport, both teams lost. But their enthusiasm is undiminished.
ABBY BAKER
By Abby Baker
Trinity Prevost celebrates a goal.
She’s been teaching lacrosse for a few months. “I had to read the rulebook myself,” Lovino said. “The cool thing is a lot of these girls have never played a sport, and they’re so excited, even when they lose.” On the practice field, a sparse team of girls wave their lacrosse gear around the grassy area behind the school.
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“I don’t need a mouthguard, I’ll be fine,” Ana Maria Correa-Castan said. “Famous last words,” Assistant Coach Alicia Prevost said.
Learning a whole new sport isn’t easy, but the players are determined. The lacrosse team is a constant blooper reel of laughing, misses and explosions of victory when a ball actually does what it’s intended to. “They’re new, especially compared to other schools,” Assistant Coach Alicia Prevost said. “The Clearwater game was downright nasty; the referee gave our girls the option to forfeit, but they stuck it out, and even ended up scoring a point.” The goal is to improve, and the two teams will play six schools in the county: Clearwater, Palm Harbor, East Lake, St. Pete, Northeast and Osceola. “I’ve had to learn patience with this team,” Lovino said. “We’re losing, and I’m not used to it, but the girls are improving with each game, and they are having so much fun doing it.”
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
Community Wellness
Childs Park Neighborhood Association Hosts Walks for the Mind, Body and Spirit By Gabrielle Reeder
GABRIELLE REEDER
Walkers meet monthly in Childs Park for a wellness walk hosted by the Childs Park Neighborhood Association.
Birds swimming in the lake, joggers and bikers enjoying their morning exercise and 70-degree weather accompanied the monthly wellness walk in Childs Park on Saturday, March 27. The neighborhood association hosts a wellness walk on the fourth Saturday of every month at 9 a.m., meeting in the park at 4301 13th Ave. S. “The idea behind it is actually a part of the City of St. Pete’s Healthy St. Pete initiative. And so we do neighborhood wellness walks as a part of a larger program that they’re doing with the city of St. Pete,” Brother John Muhammad, president
of the Childs Park Neighborhood Association, said. Organizers of the walk handed out watches that doubled as step counters, and neighborhoods around Florida tally their steps to see if, collectively, participants have walked the state of Florida. If community members are uncomfortable meeting in person, or are unable to attend the scheduled walk, they can walk on their own time and post their exercise on the association’s Facebook page. “They don’t have to do it here. But if they can just, you know, get out and do some walking and then let
us know by posting in the neighborhood wellness group on our Facebook page, so that we can keep track of how many people are actually participating,” Muhammad said. After the walk, participants finished the session with some breathing exercises and stretches to welcome positive thoughts and energy into the mind, body and spirit. “I’m really encouraging people to come out and, you know, just kind of walk it out. It’s only an hour,” Muhammad said. “We stick around for some time after that just to socialize and be neighbors.” More at fb.com/MyChildsPark.
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Vaccine Eligibility Expands
Residents 40 and Up Can Now Get the Shot, with Full Availability Next Week By Abby Baker
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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
Ready for April Showers
Gulfport Sustainability Committee Completes Rain Garden By Abby Baker
ABBY BAKER
Volunteers and members of the Gulfport Sustainability Committee, led by Dana Parkinson, spent the morning of Saturday, March 27 planting a rocky rain garden outside of the Gulfport Recreation Center.
To some, the rock-filled dip with some natural greenery outside the Gulfport Recreation Center might look like any other local landscape, but in fact, it’s a rain garden – the Gulfport Sustainability Committee’s first completed project. “It seems like we were talking about making this happen one day and six months later we had grant money,” said Sustainability Committee president and environmental scientist Dana Parkinson.
The Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program granted funds that paid for the installation of the garden; next comes educational signage for the space. “Gulfport is such a beautiful community. It’s been a pure joy getting this together,” Parkinson said. On Saturday, March 27, Councilmembers April Thanos and Paul Ray, along with students from
Boca Ciega High School and the Gulfport Teen Council, all helped finish the planting in less than two hours. Ideally, the rain garden, a water collecting dip with natural plants and rocks, will hold rainwater and keep the nutrient-pumped liquid from entering Boca Ciega Bay, where excess nutrients from fertilizers can cause algae blooms. “We got this done so quick,” Thanos said. “I’m happy to see it.”
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Gulfport Police Accreditation Assessment
The Regular Review Is Also a Chance for Residents to Share Input Since 2000, the Gulfport Police Department has been assessed every three years by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation to ensure that the local agency is in compliance with 250 peer-reviewed standards. The time has come once again, and the virtual assessment will take place from April 27 to April 29. “This process is completely voluntary on our part,” said Gulfport Commander Joshua Stone, manager of the accreditation program for the Gulfport Police Department. “It’s a way we show our citizens that we are going to abide by these business practices.” Assessors will examine the
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procedures, management, operations and support services of GPD. Since the initial accreditation 21 years ago, the GPD has passed each review. “It takes time and I definitely have a few gray hairs, but we enjoy the process and we enjoy showing citizens that we are a law enforcement agency that cares,” Stone said. The program stretches through the State of Florida and neighboring agencies such as the St. Petersburg Police Department, Clearwater Police Department and Pinellas Park Police Department. The public is invited to offer comments as part of the assessment. Get a copy of the standards manual through the police department’s community resources division by calling 727-893-1111. For more information regarding CFA or if you would like to make written comments about the Gulfport Police Department’s ability to meet the standards of accreditation, residents can write to CFA, P.O. Box 1489, Tallahassee, Florida, 32302, or email flaccreditation@fdle.state.fl.us.
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
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It’s Always Nice to Get a Call
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Gulfport’s Teen Night Wants You Register now for Gulfport’s Teen Night Program for middle school kids and teens 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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business Business Beat: Crystals, Cookies and an Art Shop Reopening You wouldn’t expect bead-wearing, woven tote-bag-user and owner of Qi Crystal Energy Melissa Loven to have been a part of the corporate world when she lived in California. Today, the Gulfport resident is reinventing the shop at 3125 Beach Blvd. S., a tiny blue building stocked with Brazilian crystals, energy reading books and local art. The storefront, once lime green, was previously Country Harvest Craft Studio. Loven jumped at the chance to open shop last December. “I intuitively knew this was the time to do this; I couldn’t deny it,” Loven said. “If I didn’t take this opportunity now, I’d be selling crystals at shows, or co-oops.” Eventually, Loven plans to turn the small storage area in the back into a teaching space for grid classes and tarot readings. “This is what I’ve always wanted to do – show how you can incorporate healing and art into your life,” Loven said. In the 90s, the Northern Virginia native was in awe of the crystal fads. “They were everywhere. I’d see people testing their food at the market with pendulums,” Loven said. “People have come back to that, an opening up of spirituality, and it’s needed in Gulfport.” More at fb.com/QiCrystalEnergy.
ABBY BAKER
By Abby Baker
Burg Cookie Company Settles Down It all started with dog treats. St. Petersburg-based Burg Cookie Company owner Ashlea O’Connor doesn’t have a sweet tooth, but her “deep dish” cookies have struck a chord with local dessert lovers. The cookie spot, baked into existence in January of 2021, is currently an online venture, but O’Connor is
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moving to a brick-and-mortar location at 1234 Central Ave. in the EDGE District sometime in May. “I either ship them, or personally drop them off,” O’Connor said. “But I really need a storefront.” Pre-COVID, the Tampa native was creating and selling pet treats out of her business on the go, Fido’s Food Truck. “I didn’t really have a thing for it anymore,” O’Connor said. “I started
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using these aluminum pans to bake, and it was so fun and completely different.” The final result? Thick cookies, like a deep-dish pizza with a sugary twist. Taste for yourself at burgcookiecompany.com/shop The Boulevard Shop Awakens ABBY BAKER
Since March 19, 2020, The Boulevard Shoppe & Garden has been closed to the public. The pandemic happened, and owner Drue Raylean, in her 80s, played it safe. Artwork, eclectic knick knacks, patched rugs, all gathered dust in the small shop at 5321 Gulfport Blvd. S. Now Cindy Heidel, the personality and salesperson of the boutique, is ready to open. Heidel sold some things on the Neighborhood Marketplace, and occasionally opened the doors for people who wanted a chance to browse, but it wasn’t the same
Heidel said. “I forgot how much I enjoy the people.” With vaccines in order and a collection of thrifted art and collectibles, The Boulevard Shoppe will open and eventually revamp the outdoor garden area with native Florida flora and fauna. “We’re not downtown Gulfport, so people forget about us,” Heidel said. “But we never mark up our prices, and we have so many different, unique things.” More at fb.com/blvdshoppe. One Vaccination, One Quarter of Free Fabric
without the ebb and flow of the community. “I really am looking forward to it,”
Fabric Smart, a Gulfport-based fabric company located at 5401 Gulfport Blvd S., is gifting a fat quarter of fabric to shoppers who can prove they’ve received their COVID-19 vaccination. “Just a little thank you for doing your part to help end the pandemic,” Karen Donnelly wrote in her promotional newsletter. Shop Fabric Smart’s collection at etsy.com/shop/fabricsmart.
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arts Exploring Atelier de SoSi
Art Pop Up Brings the Past Into the Present By Désirée Fantal
DÉSIRÉE FANTAL
The inside of the space located at 2380 6th Ave. S. in St Petersburg, is an evolving hub of artistic expression, but if you catch the building from the wrong angle, you might just miss it. From a distance it’s just a warehouse with an adjoining junkyard, but on closer inspection there is a trio of cars painted on one side – fitting for an area that calls itself
the “Automotive Art District.” Another side of the building features a red, freestanding abstract sculpture, a portrait made up of winding pieces and slabs of metal, and a sign: Atelier. Atelier de SoSi, originally a workspace for metal and wood, was recently renovated and relaunched for pop ups. Megan Allums, manager
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and daughter of the owner, said the plan is to have resident artists rent the individual, climate-controlled studios inside. It will also be available for private functions. A recent showcase featured six artists, including Jennifer Kosharek, whose wide-eyed, nesting doll-esque character you might recognize from murals around St Pete’s 600 block. Kosharek’s playful designs have been stolen and used for ads and sold on various items without her permission, and she spoke passionately about crediting an artist for their work. That’s a subject dear to featured artist Amy Ilic, both in vibe and intent. Ilic’s brightly colored work, specifically her paper installation titled “The Amplify Wall,” aims to help strengthen the visibility of artists and venues. Ilic’s work stands in stark contrast with Julie Haura’s monochromatic
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
DÉSIRÉE FANTAL
DÉSIRÉE FANTAL
pieces. Haura’s current style veers from the cartoons and princesses of her past, using canvas, metal and even driftwood to present her evocative images. Repurposing was a recurring theme at this pop up. Mark Eichenbaum’s display featured bugs made from reclaimed and found material. A collector of random things, artist Dorian Angello found himself wanting to “honor old artifacts.” As he sees it, our aging parents leave behind mementos you can’t just discard, so as a self-proclaimed packrat, Angello uses these items to let the viewer “create their own narrative.” Vintage comics with skewed perspectives of gender roles became part of a piece touching on toxic masculinity. In another work, a baby doll head and small reptile jaw join forces. Artist Michael Knapp embraced nostalgia differently. “I love retro images and pop art,” said Knapp. His series portrayed television’s “intrusion into our world, and it’s influence in what we do.” A metal backdrop that Haura used for one of her pieces was a gift from Atelier’s owner, Bruce Allums, who displays his own work throughout the space. He made all of the gallery’s unique metal, wood and stone furniture pieces using material gathered over the years via his attached salvage yard. Allums said much of the work in the gallery was a joint effort with former partner Terry Krogmann as an inspiration.
Allums, who has been in the neighborhood for 40 years, says he’s excited to be part of its transition. Though it’s current evolution is new, he said the gallery has always had a draw, whether in the vintage cars on elevated display or the range of furniture for sale. “Every time we have an event,
people come, tell their friends,” Megan Allums said, “and then when someone new comes to the next show, they say their friend told them about it.” Atelier’s next show will revolve around the auto industry. Check fb.com/atelierdesosi or atelierdesosi.com for more.
In Plein Sight Painting Date: Anytime, up to and including Friday, April 2nd Exhibition Date: Friday, April 2nd, 5pm - 9pm Gulfport's First Friday Art Walk VisitGulfportFlorida.com/first-friday-art-walk/ GFFAW-Invitation 1-3 page Gabber Ad.indd 1
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
3/12/21 9:50 PM
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Women Rising
The Gabber Talks to Author Gale Massey about ‘Rising and Other Stories’ By Lynn Taylor
Three Questions with Gale Massey “Rising and Other Stories” focuses on young women and girls who are at a crossroads in their lives due to tragedy, loss or a new understanding. What drew you to writing about these women and girls? Massey: I’m interested in marginalized characters, especially young
Massey: The project came about when Danny Gardner, the editor at Bronzeville Books, inquired about my short stories. A few had been published in various journals and anthologies, and after he read my novel, he was interested in what else I might offer the reading world. There weren’t quite enough stories for a book, but over the summer of 2020 I wrote three more to fill out the collection. Meeting the editors at Bronzeville and their subsequent interest in my work was a stabilizing event after the whirlwind adventure of publishing a novel.
GALE MASSEY
The first thing you notice in Gale Massey’s new short story collection, “Rising and Other Stories,” out April 12, is how her tales are populated with everyday folks, reminiscent of our neighbors, townspeople or perhaps even family. They live simple, recognizable lives – until unexpected circumstances dictate otherwise. The main characters in these 13 stories are mostly girls and young women navigating life and loss through grief, choices, societal constructs or predicaments beyond their control. The stories are both timeless and timely, and show how a single incident can change the course of a life in unexpected ways. Massey’s stories are open-ended – mirroring the way problems in our lives are rarely wrapped up neatly. We are left to wonder what will happen to these girls and young women and yet, with their gritty resilience, we know that somehow they survive. Though the stories can be read in a single sitting, you’ll be thinking about these characters long after you’ve read the final word.
women living below the poverty level and on the verge of entering adulthood. There’s so much societal and cultural pressure on girls that it is often difficult to grow up with an intact sense of self or the knowledge of what it takes to build a life. These stories are explorations of the determination it takes to defy external pressure and define one’s own life. Sometimes it’s crushing, sometimes it’s exhilarating, but usually the only way forward is to persist through difficult odds. Your first book, a novel titled “The Girl From Blind River,” was a big success and won a Florida Book Award the year it was published. Why did you decide on short stories for your next project?
Setting plays a large part in your stories, and in the eyes of your characters who turn to the natural world for healing. Can you explain a little bit about the role of setting in your stories, particularly Florida? Massey: I’ve always been in love with Florida nature. Some of my most serene moments have been spent in the blaze of a sunset or a cool river. My earliest memories are swimming in the Weeki Wachee and camping with my family at Payne’s Prairie. The main characters in my stories are often loners, by choice or circumstance. Adding elements of nature into a story provides a balance to that isolation. And writing about nature is a form of remembering it and fortifying it in my own mind.
Tombolo Books hosts a virtual book launch for “Rising and Other Stories” Thursday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. during the Book Launch Double Feature with Gale Massey and Tyler Gillespie. Go to tombolobooks.com to register and get your Zoom link.
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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
worship Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship
During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.
7am Sunrise Drive in Service 10am Easter Drive in Service
Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00
Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd Treasure Island
For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net “You need not think alike to love alike.” - Francis David, 1534
(Regular Sunday Service 10:00am Drive-In Service)
uuunited.org
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Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation
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things to do Poetry, LGBTQ Football and Hippity Hoppity Egg Hunts By Abby Baker
Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events. Thursday, April 1 Online Poetry Jam Eckerd College is the place to be during National Poetry Month, at least online on Thursday nights. Discover local, and no-so-local writers and poets to get the breakdown on their musings. Queer Black author Danez Smith will dig into his award-winning work; Donika Kelly, author of “Aviarium” will do an interactive Q & A, and a collection of other literary artists will dive into the written and spoken word. Inspiration can come from behind the screen, and so can registration. Email wolfekc@eckerd.edu for specific sign up details. eckerd.edu, 7 p.m. Friday, April 2 Griefshare at Cornerstone Community Church In these trying times, it can help to share loss and pain in a safe environment. Cornerstone Community Church hosts GriefShare, a meeting for people who have been impacted by the death of a loved one. Each participant can register online, but it is not required. Cornerstone Community Church, 6745 38th Ave. N. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
In Plein Sight: Gulfport’s First Friday Art Walk Watch your town transformed on canvas at April’s “plein air” themed Art Walk, with painters set up throughout Gulfport in the days leading up to the event. On Art Walk night Beach Boulevard will be filled with artists demonstrating their craft as you peruse unique creations ready to go home with you. In addition, downtown boutiques and dining options abound for your shopping pleasure. Beach Boulevard, Gulfport. 5-8 p.m.
Saturday, April 3 Hippity Hoppity Easter Egg Hunt What is Easter without hundreds of colored eggs on the ground? Hop into springtime with the City of Gulfport’s Hippity Hoppity Egg Hunt. Bring your own basket, your own mask, and participate in this local tradition. This year, egg hunters have the chance to win two prize baskets in each age category. Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. 10 a.m. Easter Egg Hunting in Pinellas Park For the 46th time, the Sunshine City Council and the Easter Bunny team up to create an egg hunt to remember. Bring a basket and be there by 9 a.m. – the hunt is over in a quick
hop. England Brothers Park, 5010 81st Ave., Pinellas Park, 9-9:30 a.m. More than Meditation: Psychic Skills Class Tap into your gifts as an intuitive, psychic and medium with this intimate class at a Gulfport beer garden. All levels of the mind are welcome, and so is Venmo. It’s time to work out more than just your core. Gulfport Brewery + Eatery, 3007 Beach Blvd. S. 10-11:30 a.m. $10 LGBTQ Flag Football A super-queer, super-sporty flag football game for all levels of sport lovers. Lace up your Converse and bring your best rainbow mask because this is an event hosted by Tampa Bay Lesbians. For those who don’t like to get their sneakers dirty, check out the meet-up afterwards at St. Petersburg’s Dog Bar at 2 p.m. Flora Wylie Park, 13th Ave. NE & North Shore Dr. NE. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, April 4 Easter Sunrise Service on the Beach Celebrate Easter by the Gulf with Christ the Cornerstone Church. Sunday best not required. Attendees will be met at Pavilion #7 with open arms. Gulfport Beach, Shore Boulevard between 54th and 58th St. S. 7 a.m.
Gulfport Little League Upcoming Games T-Ball:
me r kids so Show out and make suppor
LITTLE ES M UE GAye ar. LEAGbi t this a ha
Let's get back to the simple things, like a hot dog and soda at a Little League game.
4/3 10 a.m. Egan Park, 9101 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach 4/3 11 a.m. Egan Park, 9101 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach
Player Pitch:
4/3 10 a.m. Walter Fuller Park, 2950 75th St. N., St. Pete 4/8 6 p.m., Helen Howarth Park, 6301 94th Ave. N. Pinellas Park
Junior Little League:
4/6 7 p.m., Putnam Park, 799 Riviere Rd., Palm Harbor
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theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
the gabs What makes a strong community? Photos by Gabrielle Reeder
Antuan Watkins, St. Petersburg: “The unity amongst the people and community involvement amongst everybody.” Tashawn Muhammad, Childs Park: “The people who live in the community.”
Reno Moor, St. Petersburg: “Strong households because households are families and families make up a community. I come to you by way of Campbell Park Neighborhood Association, but obviously I network with the Childs Park Neighborhood Association so we can bring about a better change in our communities.”
Visit theGabber.com and click on the YouTube link to view more of The Gabs!
Sue Lewis, Gulfport: “Watching out for each other. Taking care of, watching your neighbor, the neighborhood watch. I have a lot of snowbirds near me, I watch their places when they’re out of town. They tell me if they’re gonna have visitors so I know not to be worried. And I think that’s part of it as well as making the neighborhood better and closer to people. It’s kind of hard to do today, but I think the community is the best. We’re too into me, me, me right now. Individuals don’t count as much as people like to think they do. Because if it was all ‘me’ we’d kill each other.”
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
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ZAIYA
pets Pet Pal Animal Shelter
Friends of Strays
PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER
JILL and THE BEANSTALK
Spring is a time for planting the seeds that we will tend and harvest and enjoy the fruits at a later date. With the Spring Equinox occurring last week, I began thinking about the SPIRITUAL SEEDS I am planting that I want to bring to fruition.
I am planting seeds of HEALTH for my daughter, my best friend, and myself. I am planting seeds of UNDERSTANDING WHO I AM so that I may fully comprehend and practice the spiritual power that I possess. I am planting seeds of PEACE for the human race – starting with my family and community. Just like Jack’s Magic Beans grew into a Magic Beanstalk, the seeds I plant and tend with intention will manifest the desires of my heart. On December 31, 2021 I want to look back over this year, remember this day, and be able to say that every seed I planted in March bore beautiful and luscious fruit.
And so it will be.
Unique Art & Gifts from 35 Local Artists in the Gallery! Linen, Silk, Tie Dye, & Boho Styles in the Boutique!
Give me Liberty or give me...sloppy kisses! Liberty is a social, friendly girl who loves walks, toys, cookies and lots of attention. She is eager to please and will make a wonderful companion. You must own your home to adopt this 1-year-old, 60-pound pit mix.
Rachel, Phoebe and Monica just turned 4 months old. Meet these fabulous “friends” at Pet Food Warehouse, 1830 61st Ave. N., petfoodstpete.com. 1830 61st Ave. N.; 727-521-6191; petpalanimalshelter.com
FRIENDS OF STRAYS
HIGH VIBES
You need this cookies and cream kitten in your life! Oreo came to the shelter in a tiny carrier smooshed in with three other cats. It was clear they had never known what a loving home was. But now, Oreo is rolling over for belly rubs and loves interactive toys. He’s an independent boy, but also enjoys time with his feline friends! Oreo is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Friends of Strays, 2911 47th Ave. N.; 727-522-6566 ext. 102; friendsofstrays.org/adopt
Summer is coming… Do kids know about your camp? The Gabber is putting together a list of summer camps in the South Pinellas area for our April 22 issue.
Want to be included for free? Go to the link below! Featured listings are available for a small fee to help you stand out.
3119 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport
678-665-4988
ZaiyaArtizenMarket@gmail.com Open 10-5 Monday - Sunday
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thegabber.com/summercamp theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
crossword
Solution on page 31
Here’s John
sudoku
Solution on page 31
I had 10 eggs in my basket so I hope you found them all! theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
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CLASSIFIEDS
If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.
Accounting
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Apartments for Rent
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One bd/ba apartment. North Gulfport. Owner occupied duplex. Non-smoker. Yearly lease. Best for one person. Senior preferred. Will consider small dog. Private, quiet. See last week’s “Gorgeous” ad in Gabber. $800 and 1st/last/security plus utilities. Income verification, credit check. By appointment. 727-350-5609. Thank you. Automotive
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1981 Corvette 2-tone original paint. Motor with lots of chrome. New tires and Cragar mags. A lot of extra parts-bra and rear window vented louver. $5,000. 857-249-4656. Card of Thanks POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After 3 days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted, without mentioning the favor, only your initials should appear at the bottom. TTD
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Computer Sales
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Computer Problems? No Problem! In-Home Service FREE Phone Consultation Virus/Malware Removal Setup • Repair • Tutoring Courteous, Competent, Reliable Service
• Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Circuits Added • Phone Wiring • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More 24 Hour Service
FREE ESTIMATES
525-0677
Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881
SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! For Sale
KEITH URBAN BLACK ELECTRIC GUITAR
Like new, with amp and hardcase. $300. Also, female lavender coaster bike, $50, and male Huffy black coaster bike, $100. 727-776-9739. Furnished Rentals RELAXED LIVING IN TOWN SHORES OF GULFPORT Kenmore 103, a beautiful, nicely furnished, large, one bedroom deluxe. Easy clean ceramic floors. Gas stove and furnace. Cold A/C. Open feeling. Handy carport, pools, and clubhouse. Annual lease: $1,200 monthly + electric. Available NOW! To see, call Dann: 727-687-4089. General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341. EXECUTIVE HOUSESITTER Professional female, who works from home, will watch over home, pets, mail, deliveries, etc. in exchange for lodging in the house. Gulfport, St. Pete, and other locations considered. References and background check provided. Non-smoker, no pets, quiet, clean. Contact leslie@innervateconsult.com 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
perfectworldllc.com Electrical AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108 Over 30 years experience. Residential & commercial. New
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.
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
SEMI RETIRED CARPENTER At Discount Prices! Free Estimates. Frame and Finish Work. Gulfport and Pinellas Park Areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus, 727-644-6194.
DELIVERY DRIVER WANTED DELIVERY DRIVER NEEDED-Part-time in Pinellas County. Clean Driver’s License/Background Check. 5 days/week. Call 727-223-1075.
Heating & A/C
RECREATION LEADER - City of Gulfport.
“Same rates seven days a week”
NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513
727
709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com
QUALITY AT WORK
Luke Phillips
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.
3914 6th St S St. Petersburg
EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR
Rich Moseley, Irrigation Contractor. 25 Years Experience. Reasonable Rates. Well & Pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.
AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured
Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist
Planting • Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Cabling/Bracing • Pruning/Shaping
727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com
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.
Home & Condo Maintenance Help Wanted
PART TIME FUNDRAISERS NEEDED
For Veterans' Outreach. Must have love for veterans, driver's license and be able to drive up 30 miles one way to fundraise. $8.65/hr + bonuses based on fundraising. E-Mail ehenry@veteransoutreach.org or call 724-991-7893 PERSONAL ASSISTANT Assistance with grocery/pharmacy shopping. Light housekeeping, drive, as needed. Manage appointments, etc. Knowledge of iPhones and laptops: including purchasing, data entry, research and problem solving, etc. Bachelor’s Degree desirable. Reliable transportation. Available in St. Petersburg, locale. Contact Linda at lb716423@gmail.com.
HIRING FULL TIME SERVER AT WESTMINSTER SHORES
Work at beautiful Westminster Shores in South St. Petersburg. Great hours, Monday through Friday from 8AM to 3PM with friendly staff and residents. Job is full time and includes excellent benefits! Email resume to eborden@wservices.org or call Eve at 727824-1323.
D.C. STRONG
Home & condo maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work, A-Z • Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530 • Licensed & Insured Home Improvement ROOFING LEAK SPECIALIST Bryan “The Roof Whisperer”. 727-277-9502. Residential/Commercial, Repairs/Reroof. Shingles, Tile, Flat. Quick Response. Quality Work at Reasonable Rates. References. Insured/Licensed. #CCC1330056.
MJC MILLWORKS & CABINETRY, INC
Michael J. Chavez, owner and founder of MJC Millworks & Cabinetry, has been involved in the industry for 30+ years, specializing in Custom Cabinetry, Architectural Millwork, Built-Ins, and Custom Closets. Visit Us @ WWW.MJCMILLWORK.COM. Showroom in St. Pete, or Phone 727-623-9981 Lawn & Landscape TREE PRUNING & DEBRIS CLEANUP Serving South St. Petersburg • Free Estimates • 727-308-8650
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
Lost & Found FOUND--CATHOLIC CARD/MEDALLION In Save-a-Lot parking lot, belonging to Mary Cocozella. Please contact the Gabber. Miscellaneous THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out, recycling and organizing, and we do mulching and weeding! Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready! Moving / Hauling CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-831-0507. Painting MASTERS PAINTING When Quality Counts. Trust Masters Painting. Making Happy Customers for 37yrs. Pressure Cleaning, Waterproofing, Honest, Reliable. 727-3441674. References, Guaranteed. Lic.#C4749.
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Painting
Real Estate For Sale
Wanted
EXTERIOR PAINTING BY MASTERGUARD PAINTING
NEED A GREAT REALTOR?
ROOMMATE NEEDED $700/MO. Background check and board approval required. Available May 1st. 917-306-7445.
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. Positions Wanted LOVING CAREGIVER AVAILABLE Loving Caregiver available. I’m a fun, caring, outgoing individual who is ready to care for your children, seniors or pets.I come with many years of experience and I’m available immediately.References upon request. Please contact me at mz140729@gmail. com 617-433-0257
Whether buying or selling a home, please call me for all of your Real Estate needs. I will work hard to earn your trust and confidence. Greg Graham, Realtor, Charles Rutenberg Realty 727-698-9017. https://gregorygraham.gocrr.com
Helping you from START to FINISH Call us today and let us show you the difference a personal relationship makes.
Debbie
Cunningham YOUR FLORIDA REAL ESTATE COMPANY
(727) 460-5418 DebbieCunninghamTeam@gmail.com
MYSTPETE.COM
Yard / Garage Sale
ST. PETE BEACH
COMMUNITY YARD SALE The St. Pete Beach Parks & Recreation Dept. is hosting an outdoor community yard sale in the parking lot of the community center.
When: April 17th Time: 8:00am-12:00pm Location: St. Pete Beach Community Center parking lot Cost: Free to attend, $15 to sell If you would like to be one of the only 50 spaces available to SELL at the event, please call 727-363-9245. No tables, chairs or tents provided. ALL SELLERS MUST BE CLEANED UP BY 1PM
theGabber.com/classifieds
Professional Services
RON DENNISON INSURANCE
• Homeowners FREE • Condo • Flood QUOTES
727-202-7258 10641 1st St E #205 • Treasure Island RLD0002@aol.com • RonDennisonins.com Real Estate For Rent
TOWN SHORES JAMESON CONDO FOR RENT
Nicely furnished, 1bd/1ba, 6/8mo lease, available Apr 15. $1150/mo plus electric. New A/C, adjustable bed, 2 wall TVs, carport, pool in backyard. Fifth floor beautiful views. 812-327-2625 GULFPORT ARTS DISTRICT Upper story apartment for rent, 1BD/1BA. Private entrance. Off street parking. Unfurnished. Completely remodeled. Includes TV/internet. Available Apr. 1st. $1150/mo. Call Jim 949-463-0837.
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C ity O f G ulfpOr t M eetinGs City Clerk’s Office • April 2021
April 6, 2021
Council Meeting – 6:00 pm (In-person and Zoom)
April 7, 2021
Planning and Zoning Board – No Meeting
April 13, 2021
Senior Citizens Advisor y Committee – No Meeting
April 14, 2021
Board of Adjustment – 6:30 pm (In-Person - City Hall – 2401 53 rd St. S.)
April 20, 2021
Council Meeting – 6:00 pm (In-person and Zoom) Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Meeting Immediately Following (In-person and Zoom)
All meetings are open to the public and will be held in the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27 th Avenue South unless otherwise noted. Meetings may occasionally be added, cancelled or rescheduled after this list is published; please check the city’s website mygulfport.us for updated information and login information for Meetings.
theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
solutions
JUST LISTED!!! Adorable Gulfport Bungalow!
1432 53rd Street South This stunning updated vintage cottage will just steal your heart away! Located on a corner lot with no flood insurance required, this three bedrooms & one beautiful bath give you lots of options (third bedroom is currently used as a home office/den)! Glistening original hardwood floors, lots of cottage accents to delight you, updated kitchen, luxury barn doors, upgraded bathroom, NEW AC, NEW hot water heater, NEW ROOF, new screen room, laundry, private fenced backyard with gazebo, patio, and shed plus so much MORE! Come live the easy breezy salt life of Gulfport and discover how sweet life really can be. You must come experience this charmer for yourself!
Marie Drew 727-657-1259
mdrew@remax.net 6641 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | LocalExpertHomes.com theGabber.com | April 1, 2021 - April 7, 2021
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GOOD. CLEAN. FUN. WE ARE EXCITED TO WELCOME YOU AND DEDICATED TO KEEPING YOU SAFE + SOUND.
AWARD-WINNING DINING
SLOTS AND TABLE GAMES
LUXURY ROOMS
seminolehardrocktampa.com © 2021. Must be at least 21 years old to play Slots and Table Games or to receive Seminole Wild Card benefits. Must be 18 years old to play Live Poker. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-888-ADMIT.IT.
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