Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2756
April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
From Ukraine to Gulfport Ukrainian refugees Halyna Hamota and her two young daughters are relieved to be an ocean away from the sounds of sirens and bombing of the Ukraine/Russia war, but their future is unsure for now. At 2 a.m. on Thursday morning, Hamota and her children, Yulia (12), Alina (10) and Gulfport Garage owner Eric Cudar arrived in Tampa after more than three days of traveling from Istanbul to Mexico to California and, finally, to Tampa. The family of three stayed in an Airbnb in Poland for more than a month while awaiting approval to travel to the United States to reunite with Cudar’s fiance and Hamota’s sister, Ulyana Fylypovych. “She’s still in shock, Ukraine shock, from the war,” Fylypovych said, translating Ukrainian into English for her sister. The girls grandparents also live in Gulfport, near Stetson. Hamota and her daughters will stay with Fylypovych’s parents, considering Cudar works full time at his busy downtown Gulfport car shop and Fylypovych is an assistant at a dental office.
ABBY BAKER
By Abby Baker
Yulia and Alina Hamota don’t understand English and have never been to America before.
The Journey The Ukrainian family left everything: their home, their pets, and whatever belongings couldn’t fit in a carry-on. Hamota’s husband and the girl’s father, Andre, is still stationed in Ukraine. Andre is a factory worker and vol-
unteer with the Ukraine militia, the bombings temporarily ceased in the area he is stationed but the Internet is spotty. For a few worry-fueled days, they lost contact with him completely. “Those were panic days,” Fylypovych said.
Refugees continued on page 8
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Letters From Your Neighbor: War Avoiding a ‘nuclear’ war, IMO, does not really belong on a list of priorities because it is the backdrop for all international relations. Of course we fear Armageddon but placing it first is a declaration of surrender in every crisis...Kim Jong-un can just say ‘I have nukes’ and we must give him the keys to the world? Unless you really think Putin is crazy, what does he gain by starting with nukes? It’s like fearing a ‘wider war’... he can’t win against Ukraine...why should we fear he’ll start a war with NATO? As long as those in the West can be counted on to panic when he issues threats, why would he stop? More
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to say on this complex subject but space limited... Protecting the dollar? I don’t know what supporting Ukraine has to do with the relative value of the dollar against other currencies. If you mean the prestige of the dollar as the world’s currency, it has probably been lifted by America’s leadership and the relative shade China is suddenly in as a quasi-Russia supporter. Cheap energy You actually meant cheap carbon energy which is, literally, killing the environment humans need to succeed. Europe’s dependence on Russian oil and gas has been a disgrace. This may turn out to be a pivotal moment in the fight to save our habitable world. Defend Democracy I think you denigrate this notion with semantics about types of governments and use of the word ‘outrage’, as if that is not a real thing. Maybe to you it is not. In my view, the rise of liberty, fairness, democracy...call it what you will – is the greatest human achievement in a million years, certainly socially. Millions have given their lives fighting for it and I’m sorry it’s a throwaway for you. This is #1. Domino Theory Anything short of full-bore support for Ukraine would be a green light for China to invade Taiwan. Weakness in the face of
despots has never bought lasting peace...it encourages them. How could it not? –Jonathan Micocci, Gulfport The “Hierarchy of Concerns: War” had me marvel at the myopic perspective of an ‘America first, my treasures matter philosophy’ when we are witnessing a Russian genocide against Ukraine not seen since the Holocaust. In regard to your view of sanctions, I concur that Russian citizens will be impacted daily by the sanctions; however, so has the central government. Since sanctions have been implemented in 2014 and more recently, escalated Russian growth has reduced by 3% yearly, or $50 billion per year, with a 30% reduction in the value of the ruble. Russian citizens, however, are not being bombed at train stations, hospitals, and bomb shelters clearly identified as havens for women and children. Secondly, irrespective of the semantics of democracy versus “a constitutional republic” the US State Department and international observers declared that Ukraine had a free and fair election in 2019. Ukraine, since 2014, has been besieged by Russia culminating in an all-out invasion this year by a narcissistic tyrant bent on annihilating civilians at any cost to advance his
Voices continued on page 6
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news Who Runs the World?
How a 5K Can Change the World for Young Girls By Resie Waechter
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Some of my earliest and favorite memories are of going for a run with my dad. I was in high school, suffering through my teenage years, attempting to navigate my way through my first real bout of depression. My self-esteem was at an all-time low. My dad offered help in the form of running. He invited me to go for a run with him one weeknight, dismissing my excuses with a wave of his hand and nudging me out the door. I made it through that first run and before I knew it, runs with my dad became a regular thing – and one of my favorite things. My dad has a way of guiding withGirls on the Run, a 501(c)(3), offers girls coaches – and empowerment. out forcing; of encouraging without making a show of it. He navigatso much more: Empowering young distance — sometimes we just need ed me through some tough congirls. Teaching them confidence, a little help getting there. versations about what I was going goal-setting, and life skills. Full disclosure: Since learnthrough, asking questions and helpJust as running with my dad was ing about Girls on the Run, Resie ing me find my own answers. We really about so much more than Waechter has signed up to be a had plenty of fights in those days, the miles, Girls on the Run is about Girls on the Run Champion, which but our runs were a peaceful contaking time to teach girls that they means she’s raising money for stant. matter, that they’re worthy, and, them and racing the St. Anthony’s As our mileage slowly grew, so did that – with a little help and guidance Triathlon to do so. She receives my confidence: One step at a time. – they can do anything. none of the money she raises, alA decade and a half have passed The day of the race was filled with though Girls on the Run has paid since those tumultuous high school music and sparkles and handmade the triathlon registration fee. years. I have had many life changsigns with encouraging messages, but one thing remains constant: es. Participants of all ages, shapes Running. My love for running makes and sizes walked, ran, danced, or me feel stronger pranced their way It’s about running, yes, to the 5K finish line and more confident, capable of but so much more: Em- while enthusiastic at Camp Summer Quest taking on new coaches and one powering young girls. challenges and of the most posiRegistration dealing with stress in a healthy and tive, energetic crowds I’ve ever seen Open NOW positive way. cheered them. for 6yo - 12 yo kids Not long ago I was going for a run Some of us are lucky enough to Jun 6 - Aug 5 • M-F 9am - 4:30pm and literally ran across a 5K race. have supportive parents. But not at Bay Point Christian Church It was right along my usual route every girl is born with a coach, sup2001 62nd Avenue South downtown St. Pete, so I registered. port system, and father all wrapped $180 weekly camp fee Girls on the Run, a local chapter of into one. GOTR gives girls a coach – (+$45 reg fee) a 501(c)(3) organization, sponsored a mentor, someone who believes in Limited Spots and Scholarships available the race. That day, I experienced them and encourages them. SomeFor more information contact: what they are all about. one who trains girls to go the disDenise Ford • (727) 504-3149 GOTR enlists coaches to team up tance and then crosses the finish campsummerquest@gmail.com with adolescent girls, training them line right there with them. campsummerquest.org for a 5K. It’s about running, yes, but Because we all deserve to go the
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
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Voices continued from page 3 goal of Russian expansion. Thirdly, I am more than perplexed that “moral, ethical, values and principles” are lower on your hierarchy” than “treasures” or our nationalistic security. Your final perspective is truly a conundrum as you appear to do an about-face concerned that if Russia usurps Ukraine, China Taiwan, then ‘oops, perhaps our lives and treasures may truly be in jeopardy.’ Sorry to inform you Ian, we cannot be observers in our world. We are, or should be, ethical, moral, value-based leaders on this global enterprise treasuring humanity and assisting those less fortunate. So brace up for increased gas prices, food prices, and perhaps reduced bank accounts. These are nothing
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compared to living one day in a Ukrainian war zone. –Kathleen Kenyon, Gulfport
Pesticides in the Parks I noticed the article on Roundup at the dog parks in the last issue. I’m told the City also sprayed Roundup on the pond between 54th and 55th Streets, where Tangerine intersects. This is hearsay, so I don’t know for sure. This pond is home to turtles, ducks, various birds, and a protected species of stork during its migration. I can’t imagine why the City would want to poison this environment. What I do know is that one small island is still devoid of vegetation since the spraying many months ago. Looks like it’s
been burned down. Why kill weeds that provide shelter and maybe food for small animals in parts of a park where no one walks? If Roundup is being sprayed here, I can’t imagine that residents want their money used for a dangerous chemical in an area frequented by wildlife. Residents should at least have a say about chemicals in their parks and near their homes. –Roberta Dever, Gulfport
Presbyterian Church Closes Its Doors This would be a great space for artist workshops and studios as well as a performance space. Gulfport needs to take care of their artists. – Victoria Jorgensen, Gulfport
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A Little Good News
LGBTQ Resource Center Awarded $10k for SpeakOut By Abby Baker
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Gulfport’s LGBTQ Resource Center received a $10,000 grant from Florida Humanities for a free, multi-month speaker series called SpeakOut, “Intersections between LGBTQ Identity”. It’s a long-winded name, but the concept is classic LGBTQ Resource Center. “This is a community dialogue with scholars to engage in conversation regarding the LGBTQ community,” said Susan Gore, Board President at the Resource Center. According to Gore, Gulfport Library Director Dave Mather helped write the $10,000 grant. “It’s just another example of the extraordinary support we have here at the Resource Center,” she said. The SpeakOut events span April 2022 through January, 2023 and will be a hybrid of online and in person at the Gulfport Public Library (5501 28th Ave. S.)
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Refugees continued from cover
ABBY BAKER
Gulfport residents Eric Cudar and Ulyana Fylypovych welcomed their Ukrainian family to Gulfport under humanitarian refugee status last week after the family waited in Poland for more than a month.
Finally, the phone rang: Andre was safe. “We can sleep at night now,” Hamota said.
After over a month of uncertainty in Poland, Ukrainian refugees received word that they can come to the United States
on humanitarian grounds and arrive through Mexico. The status only lasts a year, but the Gulfport couple spent no time arranging a
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plane from the closest exit point, Istanbul, to Mexico City. Cudar decided to meet them, considering the family understands little English, no Spanish, and had never been on a plane before this. “The hardest part, I think, was the airports in Mexico,” Cudar said with a frustrated laugh. Cudar printed out a temporary Mexican visa for each of them and filled it out at home. The first guard insisted they would have to rewrite it themselves, but the Ukrainian family cannot write English. After much pleading, and Cudar’s form being ripped to pieces by one guard, a second guard agreed to let them in. Hamota and her children watched and listened to the altercation, unsure of what was happening. Eventually a second guard allowed them in. They breathed a sigh of relief. “The rules changed depending on who you talk to,” Cudar said. From Mexico City, they went to Tijuana and then learned that flights out of Tijuana had a fourday wait – and there were no hotels available. No Ubers, either. The quartet – Cudar, Hamota, and her daughters – caught a ride to the Mexico/California border and crossed it on foot. They
caught another ride to San Diego and then flew to Florida. “They are so excited to be with family,” Fylypovych said. “They come from snow, so they are happy about the weather. For her (Hamota) it’s a little bit of a shock. She says she doesn’t know why people are always saying hello to her, they don’t know her. That’s just how Americans are.” A Year-Long Safety Net Their humanitarian status only lasts a year, but the family hopes to extend it. Hamota and the girls applied for an United States visa six years ago and got on a nineyear waiting list. “We’re hoping that it can be accelerated somehow,” Cudar said, “given the circumstances.” For now, they are settling in. “We were so focused on getting them here, at this point we don’t know the next steps,” Cudar said. On Sunday, Hamota’s 10 and 12-year-old daughters laugh and chase each other around the steps of the Gulfport Casino Ballroom after lunch at Dog Pier. They know their lives have changed forever, but they likely don’t know the severity. The girls may attend Walden Private Middle School, a small Gulfport school that offered free tuition for the girls – and to work
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with them on their English. As traumatic as it may have been for the Ukraine family, they are fortunate. Many refugees do not have the money to fly or book rooms. In the case of Cudar and Fylypovych’s family, Gulfportians donated money toward the flight. At press time, the GoFundMe raised just shy of $9,000. People have stopped by Gulfport Garage to hand deliver money, often emotionally moved by the family’s plight. On April 25 artist Denise Keegan will host a fundraiser to help the family get back on their feet. “The people of Gulfport are what made this financially possible. I know Gulfport is generous, but seeing it firsthand ,” Cudar said, “this is a community like no other.” Cudar dropped the amount needed on his GoFundMe from $15,000 to $10,000, but any additional funds will go to setting up Hamota and her young daughters for a new life in Florida.
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The three-plus hour April 5 Gulfport City Council meeting contained almost an hour of public comment, as well as several people filming the meeting (other than city staff), and one person getting a police escort from council chambers. Here’s some of what people said throughout the meeting. You can watch the full meeting on the City of Gulfport website. “Since we have settled my federal lawsuit, I thought I’d never have to address any concerns to you or the general public.” –Former Gulfport Police Officer Johnathan Ross, who said the City will not give him public records relating to his hours on the water for GPD. The City Manager told The Gabber that if the records exist, the City would provide them. Public records law stipulates that government cannot be compelled to create a record to satisfy a request. “Why do you need my picture?” –An audience member, speaking to one of the other members of the audience who was filming the meeting and the people there “So it’s been three years in a sense since we’ve been complaining about racial discrimination… Your Chief of Police assaulted me in the middle of the council meeting… For him to
have placed his hands on me… I still to this day have not been able to file charges…” –Resident Jesse Lee, who turned to address the City Attorney. As he spoke, his voice grew louder. “Address the Board, Mr. Lee, it’s part of the rules of decorum.” –Mayor Sam Henderson, to Jesse Lee “Stop interrupting me. You do that every time.” –Jesse Lee “Calm yourself down.” –Mayor Henderson, to Jesse Lee “I don’t need to calm myself down ... Stop covering up shit that is happening in this town” –Jesse Lee “Well, there you go, now you’ve done–” –Mayor Henderson “It’s not against FCC regulations. Look it up.” –Jesse Lee (Note: Public meetings are not governed by the FCC; council sets its own rules of decorum) “Thanks, Mr. Lee. It’s a pleasure as always.” –Mayor Henderson “Time to go.” –Gulfport Police Chief Rob Vincent, to Jesse Lee, who had started to return to his seat. “I’m not being asked to leave; I still want to stay for my council meeting.” –Jesse Lee “What’s the verdict?” –Chief Vincent to Mayor Henderson “No.” –Mayor Henderson “The word ‘shit’ isn’t against FCC regulations.” –Jesse Lee “You’re being asked to leave.” –Chief Vincent
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MICHAEL FRIDOVICH
Overheard at Gulfport City Council
The Ward IV Councilmember, Michael Fridovich, will participate in Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day). Several members of The Gabber will participate as well; to participate, visit thefhm.org.
“Don’t put your hands on me.” –Jesse Lee “Then leave.” –Chief Vincent “Don’t put your hands on me! You piece of shit!” –Jesse Lee, leaving. As he did, so did several other members of the audience, including several people filming the meeting “I guess the show’s over. Everybody left.” –Mayor Henderson “Not everyone ... I came here and I was carrying an AR15 in your town. I’ve been here twice... They barely said anything to me, but to hear his stories and others... if there’s a problem and people start talking about that one problem... They need to start looking at that one problem. For the most part, I think they need to go back to their oath and what they’re supposed to do... They came out and treated me halfway with respect.” –Michael Taylor, a self-identified activist who also calls himself “The Armed Fisherman” “I’ve never been treated as good or as courteous [as Gulfport police do].” –Paula Tyer, a retired law enforcement officer “I’ve lived here since ‘94 and one of the reasons I live here is that we
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
have our own police department. It’s one of the reasons I live here and I want it to stay here.” –Marlene Shaw “I can’t wait to go. Just kidding.” – Vice-Mayor Christine Brown (Ward II), about Paul Ray’s town hall meeting “Come on, we can plot together.” – Councilmember Paul Ray (Ward III) “I do not understand why we can’t let the dog parks go back to nature and allow the dogs to roam on whatever grows naturally.” –Caron Schwartz, about the City’s use of pesticides in the dog park “We like to walk at Clam Bayou here in Gulfport. We now go to the St. Pete Clam Bayou. I understand it’s as least toxic as it can be, but for those of us with respiratory issues, it can be deadly.” –Cindy Clayton, about City pesticide use “The Gulfport Lions club has been working with the Trex® outdoor furniture, participating in a plastic bag collection campaign to donate benches around the city ... We have donated five so far; we will be collecting 26,000 plastic grocery bags over a period of five months for this bench. We would like to thank the Gulfport citizens and the South Pasadena Ace Hardware for collecting the materials needed. Collection boxes are located at the library front entrance, senior center, and Lion’s club front door. We would like to set more and if you have any additional places you think we would be able to place collection boxes please contact us.” –Ron Conye, with the Gulfport Lion’s Club
that you know to be good people, and I do know a lot of these folks to be good people from my 13 years of service. I’ll try to do better at that; it’s one of the things I work on.” – Mayor Henderson “Regarding public comment: Anyone is welcome to come and say what they feel. We do have rules in terms of language … To come up and speak and make accusations and continually not provide any evidence or basis in fact of those accusations. It’s one thing for us as elected officials to take that; the rules are actually different, so you can pretty much say all kinds of rough stuff to us, but when it comes to city staff, like our city attorney, our city manager, our city clerk, our department heads, the rest of staff, that’s where you get into the waters where you’re talking about slander and defamation, which is why when someone comes to make these things, I would prefer to see evidence to what they’re talking about, and I don’t think it’s unfair, to have your accusations backed by evidence.” –Mayor Henderson “When you get a lot of people coming in with cameras ... and not wanting to use their names, that tells me that someone wants to put on a show, that somebody’s looking for something.” –Mayor Henderson “Wouldn’t it be cool to have an LED sign… the library sign that faces Beach Boulevard that is something you can use that announces up-
coming events?” –Susan Gore “Your code does not allow changing LED lights. The sign code does not allow the signage to change.” –City Manager Jim O’Reilly “But we can change that law, right?” –Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) “Bringing us to agenda item #275.” –Mayor Sam Henderson, in the third hour of the April 5 Council meeting “They read off all six million names that were killed in the Holocaust.” – Councilmember Michael Fridovich, about Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) at The Florida Holocaust Museum “Six million all over the world or that one place does six million?” – Vice-Mayor Christine Brown (Ward II) “It’s the Holocaust itself. Six million Jews.” –Councilmember Michael Fridovich (Ward IV) “The previous governor... you couldn’t use the word ‘climate change’; this one you can’t use ‘gay’ so people in Tallahassee ware walking around with tape on their hands and I guess sign language. I don’t know what they’re doing.” –Councilmember Michael Fridovich (Ward IV) “I’d like to suggest that we pay for the whole thing.” –Councilmember Michael Fridovich (Ward IV), about artist Ray Domingo’s skateboarding gecko sculpture; the City has committed to paying $16,000 (half the price of the sculpture) if Domingo can raise the rest.
“Your comments and your way of speaking to residents that you’re frustrated with is more than disappointing. The dismissive comments just alienate and divide people.” – Samantha Ring, via Zoom, to Mayor Sam Henderson “Ms. Ring’s right; I’m only human. Sometimes I might get a little attitude and I shouldn’t I need to be more of a professional than that, but sometimes it gets to you, when you hear people badmouthing folks
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
11
Gulfport Increases Pay for Elected Officials
After Discussing Pay Raises for Seven Weeks, Council Gets Raise Concluding the saga of votes, councilmembers have finalized new salaries for themselves. The City will pay its mayor $20,000/ year, and will pay all other councilmembers $15,000/year. Previously the mayor had a salary of $14,400 per year, while councilmembers received $10,800 annually. The combined salary for city council, including the mayor, totals $80,000 a year. This pay increase will go into effect with the new budget year, which begins October 1. The City pays bi-weekly. The decision was still met with discord, with Councilmember Paul Ray (Ward III) telling other councilmembers, “I am still against it.” By contrast, many residents – both in person and tuned in at home – favored salary increases. “I support the passing of this initiative because we need to stay competitive in terms of salary and support our councilmembers. Gulfport is in a period of growth and in addition the responsibilities of governing have grown,” Walter Barker told Council. Greg Simek, a frequent proponent of higher pay for elected officials, agreed via Zoom. “$15,000 a year is still too low,
ABBY BAKER
By Steph Mathurin
Paul Ray and April Thanos (Wards III and I, respectively), pictured here at a 2021 rally, voted against a pay increase.
especially compared to national averages,” Simek said. “As for Councilmember Ray, I would chal-
lenge him to donate to the charity of his choice if he’s really against this.”
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
Seven Questions with Barry Rubin
TIMB Chamber President Talks Affordable Housing, Thomas Jefferson By Abby Baker
GN: What’s your best day ever? BR: Every day is pretty great, but a few stand out. The day my daughter was born was a great day. Hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu was a good day. When the Eagles won the Superbowl was a pretty special day too. Your house is burning and you can only bring one thing (barring family and pets); what do you grab? Cell phone (and phone charger). What is one thing you’d like to see change in the Gulfport/St. Pete area? I’d like to see more affordable housing. The tremendous development in our area is good for home values and tax base for our cities, but it has created a shortage of affordable housing for the workforce, which in turn has created staff shortages almost everywhere, especially in the hospitality sector that is typically lower wage and is the backbone of our local economy. What’s the most important locally owned business in our community? There are many important locally owned businesses in our commu-
protect the interests of their local businesses and community. Chambers are the catalytic leaders and essential to a successful business and a thriving community. BARRY RUBIN
In this edition of The Gabber’s “Seven Questions”, we talk to Treasure Island & Madeira Beach Chamber of Commerce President Barry Rubin. Rubin’s at most every beach event and shared his happy-golucky outlook with us.
What’s your favorite outdoor place along Gulfport and the beaches? Johns Pass Village in Madeira Beach and Treasure Island Beach.
Barry Rubin serves as President of the Madeira Beach/Treasure Island Chamber of Commerce.
nity, and to the families that own and operate them I would assume that each is the most important to them and their families. But if I had to pick one, I would have to say that the 13 local chambers of commerce in Pinellas County are critical as they promote and
What’s your favorite phone app? Facebook, and MLB Ballpark App during Rays season. I use the flashlight a lot too. Who is your hero? Thomas Jefferson. Know someone who’d make an interesting Seven Questions subject? Email their info and why you think we should cover them to news@ thegabber.com.
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
13
Business Beat: Hot Dogs, Business Grant + The Frog Pond Here’s the Latest in St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach By Abby Baker
St. Petersburg has its first Portillo’s, a nationwide Chicago-based burger and sandwich restaurant. The ‘50s themed hot dog chain (known for its popular chocolate cake) opened earlier this month at 2302 Tyrone Blvd. S. “Franks to the bun-believable requests from our fans in Sunshine City, we’re bringing our third restaurant to the Tampa Bay area to serve up more of our unrivaled Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and world-famous chocolate cake!” the chain posted on its website. This will be the third Tampa Baybased store, with the other two locations in Tampa and Brandon. St. Pete Beach Business Grant Small business on St. Pete Beach received good news on April 1. The City of St. Pete Beach, in partnership with the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce, launched the Business Site Improvement Program (BSIP), a grant program for beach businesses with less than 50 employees. Businesses can apply to receive up to $7,500; the business must match the amount of the grant with its own funds. “This program will help local businesses meet and exceed local codes,” the grant website reads. Businesses can use the money for accessibility improvements, beautifi-
PORTILLO’S RESTAURANTS
Buns the Word
Portillo’s restaurants opened a St. Petersburg location this April.
cation projects (like murals), signage, painting, and other improvements, according to the posted guidelines. “The committee will fund selected projects on a reimbursement basis upon completion of the project and submission of receipts and other appropriate documentation,” the website states. St. Pete Beach and the TBBC will award up to $50,000 in grant money. Business owners can check the requirements and at online.tampabaybeaches.com/BSIP (read this article at thegabber.com for a link.) Ribbit, Ribbit The Frog Pond, an amphibian-inspired breakfast franchise on St. Pete Beach and Redington Beach reopened its downtown St. Petersburg location on Monday, April 4 after closing in 2020. Joshua Garcia is the co-owner of the DTSP Frog Pond and the former manager of the St. Pete Beach location. He has a co-owner, a man named
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Raymond who told The Gabber he prefers to remain behind the scenes. When the downtown St. Petersburg location (890 3rd Ave. S.) closed during the pandemic, Garcia decided to buy the store – along with the franchise rights – with blessings from Frog Pond owner David Hitterman. Garcia’s restaurant remains separate from the restaurant on the beaches, but he hopes to keep the same vintage family vibe in DTSP. It’s like a sibling to the beaches duo, Garcia says. “I want to recreate that same magic of The Frog Pond here,” Garcia said. “I’m bringing us back to our roots.” Despite keeping much of The Frog Pond the same, Garcia has some tricks up his sleeve. “I inherited a 1,000-square foot kitchen, and I want to put it to use,” Garcia said. “So I have a downtown St. Pete exclusive menu.” The exclusive-to-DTSP portion of the menu has seven items on it, including chicken and waffles, butterflied chicken breast, and shrimp and grits. True to form, there’s the typical breakfast fare you see at The Frog Pond and lunch specials during the afternoon. The biggest obstacle, Garcia adds, is that his kitchen needs qualified cooks. “One unfortunate thing is that I can’t bring in any of the previous employees,” Garcia said. For now, The Frog Pond St. Petersburg location caters to early risers and is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
"Her treatments got me back on the golf course" “I hurt my back playing golf. I went to the chiropractor. I went to the pain institute. I went to the spine institute. Nothing helped. The pain was debilitating, I went six or seven months without playing.” This was the case of John R. John would go on to explain that on a scale of one to ten his pain was well over a nine every single day. Regardless of your age, back pain, whether caused by a sports injury, longstanding arthritis or even specific conditions like scoliosis, can severely impact the quality of your life. In short, it stops you from doing the things you love with the people you love and that’s not a great way to live. On top of that, general practitioners, specialists and surgeons are all too eager to prescribe medications whose side effects are often detrimental to your recovery or recommend invasive surgeries that often have less than desirable outcomes. Fortunately for the people of the St. Petersburg, Dr. Rebecca Gibbons and her team at Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine have pioneered non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical innovative medical solutions that actually treat your pain! “My patients are also people who would normally require surgery but would either have a difficult time going under the knife or have simply decided that they would rather explore other options. There is more to healthcare than prescription pills, elimination diets and scalpels,” shares Dr. Gibbons. “By offering several integrative therapies we are able to combat your pain from several angles ensuring the best possible outcome.” John easily attested to this claim, “I highly recommend her to anybody. I am very thankful that I met Dr. Gibbons and she was able to help me because I can play golf again!”
Each new patient that comes to AAIM receives a comprehensive consultation and then is prescribed a very personalized treatment program that is tailored to their specific needs and goals. “While every treatment I perform is based on a framework cultivated from years of education and experience, no two cases are the same and so every person under my care is treated that way," tells Dr. Gibbons. One of the modern medical solutions Dr. Gibbons offers is O3 Regenerative Therapy™ which uses prolozone, a technique that involves injecting a solution of natural anti-inflammatory medications, vitamins and ozone into degenerated or injured joints, and into areas of pain. It’s with these injections that John found himself back on the green. "Unlike other solutions to chronic pain, O3 Regenerative Therapy™ corrects the pathology of the problem, allowing the body to heal itself naturally. This is a wonderful alternative to more traditional methods and incredibly safe and highly successful.” Dr. Gibbons and the team at AAIM are using O3 Regenerative Therapy™ to treat a myriad of chronic pain issues including neck pain, arthritis, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, chronic injuries and so much more! To schedule a consultation and evaluation call (727) 272-3587
Achieve Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine 701 49th St. N St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Visit www.ACHIEVEACUIM.COM to learn more and to take advantage of their NEW PATIENT OFFER theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
15
Spending Money to Keep Gulfport Nice
Gulfport Gets Wi-Fi in the Parks, Fireworks on the Beach, and New Manholes By Steph Mathurin
Gulfport City Council rolled through the approval process for city improvements at its April 5 meeting. Spending included the popular Fourth of July fireworks and Wi-Fi throughout City parks, but also the not-talked-about-quite-asmuch manhole cover repairs. Fire in the Sky Gulfport will have its annual Fourth of July fireworks festivities once again. At the April 5 meeting, Council approved a contract with Pyro Productions, Inc. for a $28,000 fireworks display. Council also approved some related road and water closures, citing safety requirements, related to the show. “We would like to maintain the quality of the show that we have always had, despite the increase of cost.” O’Reilly stated. “I know it’s nice to have a fireworks display, but I’m speaking up for the dogs and cats,” Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) said. Mayor Sam Henderson agreed that the show proved problematic for many dogs and cats – including some of his own – but said drone alternatives weren’t financially feasible until the prices of those shows came down.
Gulfport’s annual fireworks show will cost $28,000. No silent drone shows yet, Mayor Henderson said, adding the cost made them prohibitive.
Wi-Fi in the Parks Gulfport’s one step closer to park and beach Wi-Fi. Council unanimously approved spending up to $100,000 for equipment to get Wi-Fi installed in public spaces. When the City started the process, it hoped to keep the costs under $20,000, but current estimates indicate the total cost of the project will exceed the $20,000. “With expanding our Wi-Fi pro-
gram to the parks, it will push our initial $20,000 budget,” City Manager Jim O’Reilly explained to Council. The City will install Wi-Fi at Caldwell, Chase, Wood Ibis, Tomlinson, Trolley Market Square Park, and Veterans Park. It will also upgrade Wi-Fi along the beaches and at the theater. City Hall already has Wi-Fi, as does the Casino. The Wi-Fi will not be secure, but it will be free. A Fix For Sewage Overflows With Gulfport in a flood zone, things like faulty manholes can prove problematic. Council approved spending to address issues affecting Gulfport’s sanitary sewer system. Councilmembers authorized money to repair Gulfport’s manholes, to allow for proper water transfer, and prevent possible flooding (as much as possible.) “This is a continuation of the manhole renovation project we identified last year,” O’Reilly said. The City will pay roughly $155,000 to Manhole Rehabilitation Services to repair 22 problematic manholes. This will help to improve the city’s sewage management system, Public Works Director Tom Nicholls said.
16
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
Pickleball, Tennis, and Water Meters
Thanks to Pandemic Funding, Gulfport’s Getting Much-Wanted Upgrades What do pickleball, water meters, and tennis have in common? As it turns out, COVID-19. That’s how Gulfport’s getting upgrades to all three things. At the April 5 Gulfport City Council meeting, councilmembers voted to use funds from the federal government’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – just more than $6.1 million paid over two years (the City already received the first of the two payments) – the most recent COVID-19 relief package. The funds will go towards different public projects, including a citywide water meter upgrade, and new tennis and pickleball courts.
PATRICK GRANEY
By Steph Mathurin
Tennis and Pickleball Courts Council has set aside federal funds to tear down and rebuild the Chase Park tennis/pickleball courts into separate tennis and pickleball courts. These funds allow the City to create more space for both sports. When completed, Chase Park will have two new tennis courts and two standalone pickleball courts. In addition, the courts will have enhanced lighting. “There’s going to be LED lighting, all new lighting, fencing... everything’s getting demoed and then replaced,” Public Works Director Tom Nicholls said. The addition of dedicated pickleball courts means something has to go, so the City will remove the road around the fire pit behind Scout Hall, although the fire pit will remain. Nicholls hopes this will preserve the number of parking spots in the park. Pickleball aficionados and tennis lovers should have dedicated space by Labor Day. “This project will be all-inclusive. We will be tearing everything out and rebuilding,” Nicholls said. “We expect to start at the beginning of the month, and it will take roughly four months to complete. With this new construction, courts should last at least 10 years,” he added.
Gulfport’s plan for the new courts includes a total demolition of the existing ones, but pickleball and tennis players should have brand-new courts by the end of the summer.
Water Meters Water meters may not sound as exciting as new tennis courts, but the ARPA money means Gulfport can get better technology and less labor-intensive meters without pinging its tax base. The new water meters from Neptune Technology Group and water meter boxes and accessories from Core and Main come with an estimated $800,000 price tag. The new meters will make billing and tracking water usage simpler, allowing workers to record more accurate numbers.
“About 20% of Gulfport already has these meters, “but they’re still drive-by technology,” Nicholls says, meaning the utility workers still must drive by the home to read the meter. With the new system, the meter will upload water usage into the cloud every five minutes. The upgrade will take between 18 and 24 months, but at the end, utility customers could get an app to help them monitor their water usage. “Our long-term goal is to allow residents the ability to look at their water usage from their smartphones,” City Manager Jim O’Reilly said.
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
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17
gabberlife Dennis Rodman Rolls into Gulfport
Before Hanging with Hulk Hogan, Rodman Stopped at O’Maddy’s Dennis Rodman’s signature neon looks are hard to miss, but they’re extra-hard to miss blown up on the side of a bus. On April 6, the Rodman Brand bus, wrapped with images of the retired basketball icon, was spotted outside O’Maddy’s Bar & Grille (5405 Shore Blvd. S.) in Gulfport. But was the star there himself? “He came in for lunch,” O’Maddy’s owner Joe Guenther confirmed. Rodman’s famous for his time playing ball for the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers, but he also attracts interest as a style icon (he famously rocks dresses) and is widely known as being friendly with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. “Subtle as only Rodman can be,” Laurie Cooper wrote on O’Maddy’s Facebook page. Andrius Jaliniauskas, a bartender at O’Maddy’s, says the celebrity interacted with staff and surprised guests. “He was really nice and he took pictures with everyone,” Jaliniauskas said. “And, he gave out free t-shirts.” It’s unclear why “The Worm” was visiting Pinellas, but he dropped a few posts from Hogan’s Hangout posing with Hulk Hogan in Clearwater later that night.
ANDRIUS JALINIAUSKAS
By Abby Baker
Retired basketball star Dennis Rodman chose O’Maddy’s, a casual waterfront restaurant in Gulfport for lunch.
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
the gabs What’s the worst date you’ve ever been on? Photos by Abby Baker
Zack Baker, Orlando: “I forgot my wallet. I go to open my bag and all that’s in it is lip gloss and a vegan granola bar. He didn’t want to pay either and made it very clear.”
Irma Douglass, Georgia: “Probably a blind date. It was a disaster and he was a jerk. But I ended up meeting my husband on another blind date.”
Jessica Stele-Koupas, St. Petersburg: “We were in Dallas and he was walking on my right when a homeless man came up and asked us for $5. The guy I was on a date with hid behind me. He was so scared, I think he thought we were being robbed. I made him give me $5 and handed it to the guy and asked ‘Are we good babes?’ I walked to my car and he’s like ‘I guess I blew it right?’ He did.”
Jordyn Lux, California: “This man was a completely different person than in the photographs on the app we matched on. It was the fact that he didn’t acknowledge it and I was just confused. He looked like my Uncle Tim.”
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
19
arts A Vending Machine for the Books
On Treasure Island, Borrow a Library Book from a Vending Machine What’s the weirdest vending machine transaction you’ve ever had? One memory that comes to mind is the time my sister’s boyfriend went to the fridge to fill his glass with ice water, and a frozen corn dog popped out of the dispenser instead. My family still laughs about that one. Treasure Bay Golf and Tennis sees more potential in vending machines than a simple soda or snack: Their recently installed Library Lending Machine and Depository allows customers to check out books. The recreation facility and park put the book vending machine in its clubhouse. It’s wellstocked with bestsellers and fan favorites such as “The Vanishing Half” and “American Dirt:”, as well as a romance novel or two. There are even some children’s books to balance it out. After enjoying a round on the fairway, getting their shuffle on, or spiking it on the volleyball courts, beach residents can go swipe their card at the book vending machine to give their brain some exercise, too. The public recreation facility and park are open to everyone, and any Gulf Beaches library cardholder can use the book vending machine. Added bonus: This machine promises not to eat your money. Walt Disney said, “There is more
GULF BEACHES PUBLIC LIBRARY
By Resie Waechter
No sodas or snack food here – just some tasty reading.
treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” How’s that for food for thought?
Contact the Gulf Beaches Public Library at 727-391-2828 or gulfbeacheslibrary@icloud.com.
A Maker’s Market in Downtown Gulfport with Music & Live Entertainment Third Saturday of Every Month
5 - 9 PM For more information: VisitGulfportFlorida.com/indiefaire 20
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
The Vitale Brothers Present: ‘The Birds and the Bees’ St. Pete Mural Brothers Put on a Spring-Flavored Show in Gulfport By Abby Baker
AARON TULLO
The ‘Birds and the Bees’ is a spring-themed art show sponsored by The Vitale Brothers. Check out the three siblings’ Gulfport studio.
For the first time in 10 years, the muralist sibling trio, The Vitale Brothers, have an art show featuring St. Petersburg artists. The renowned brothers, (Paul, Johnny, and Joey) want to see local art lovers at The Birds and the Bees at their Gulfport studio this Friday. The show will feature Vitale Brothers work, but also emerging and well-known local creators such as Jujmo, Aaron Tullo, Leo Gomez, Inkbeard, and others. The brothers have splashed murals all over St. Petersburg. You may have seen their handiwork at the historic Playhouse Theater –the Marilyn Monroe mural – or the Morean Arts Center – the giant fist that’s part of the Power to the Patients campaign – but it’s not often people can peek into their private work space. “We’re easing back into the scene with this amazing lineup of artists we’ve been fans of for a while!” The Vitale Brothers posted on their Instagram page. New to the scene, St. Petersburg muralist Aaron Tullo painted his first public work, a towering pocket watch, on the Old Northeast Jewelers building in 2018. Self-described
as his best work, people also know Tullo for his collage-style mural that stretches along the St. Pete Fishing Outfitters. He’s since worked on larger projects with the Vitale Brothers, and is happy to exhibit at the spring show. “I was fortunate enough to be working with them, helping out on jobs,” Tullo said. “I was always a fan. If you know St. Pete, you know the
Vitale Brothers.” He will show his graphical, colorful, Renaissance-inspired painting collection on wood at Friday’s show. The Birds and the Bees will also feature live music by The Wrenchers, plus a Tiki bar. The Birds and the Bees The Vitale Brothers Studio, 5013 20th Ave. S., April 25. 7-11 p.m. vitale brothers.com
un dries • Kitchen & Serveware • Gourmet Foods • Gifts, Cards, Books • Stella’s Gear and Souvenirs 2908-A Beach Boulevard (in the heart of the Village) 727-303-0976
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
21
obituaries
KING FAMILY
Mitchel King, 26 of Gulfport died peacefully at home on March 29, 2022. He was born at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg on September 6, 1995. He attended Bear Creek Elementary, Gulf Beaches Elementary, Thurgood Marshall Middle School, and Boca Ciega High. He’s survived by his loving mother, Melanie King and Stepfather Paul Anthony Klaff of Gulfport; Aunt Suzanne King and Cousin Becky King-Lusco of Gulfport, and Grandmother Becky King of St. Petersburg. Mitchel loved animals and was exceptional with training dogs. He enjoyed music, science, history, and math. Mitchel spent most of his working years doing odd jobs, hospitality, and lawn maintenance. In lieu of flowers or any other sympathy gift, please donate to his favorite rescue event, Get Rescued Inc. at getrescuedinc.org.
worship Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship
During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.
St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707
Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday
Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00 For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net “You need not think alike to love alike.” - Francis David, 1534
uuunited.org
Paradise Lutheran Church
on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island
Easter Sunrise Service 7am outside & 10am inside 727-360-5739
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 Thursday 4/14 Agape Supper 6:00 pm, Service 6:30 pm
Affiliated with
St Vincent’s Episcopal Church
Good Friday 4/15 Stations of the Cross at noon
5441 9 th Ave N. • St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Saturday 4/16 The Great Vigil 7:30 pm
Easter & Sunday Services 10AM Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM
Easter Sunday 10:00 am
Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church 2728 53rd St. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 (Entrance on 28th Ave.)
Where ALL are welcome at the Lord’s table. Come and See... Sunday Mass 9:30am www.goodshepherdocc.net 727-403-7178
727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org
17th St. & 29th Ave N St. Petersburg 345-7777 Friday 7PM
Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation
ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net
Special worship rates starting as low as $25/week. Send an email to: advertising@thegabber.com
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theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
crossword
Solution on page 27
Les Girls
gabber on vacation
Solution on page 27
MATT TOWERS
sudoku
Matt and Meredith Towers took The Gabber on vacation to Machu Picchu, although we would rather have gone to Huayna Picchu. Oh, wait...
Have you taken the Gabber somewhere? We want to see your pictures! Please send a high-resolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber.com.
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
23
GULFPORT
North End Taphouse
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Lucky Lizard Taphouse 14953 Gulf Blvd. Saturday, April 16: Larry Mott, 7 p.m. Sunday, April 17: Karaoke Night, 3 p.m.
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Submit your events online at thegabber.com
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things to do
Masks Recommended
Social Distancing Observed
Vegan Options
Dog-Friendly
Virtual
Women’s Expo, Easter in Gulfport + Dyngus Day Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events. Thursday, April 14 Mayor Town Hall Come hear a panel of Pinellas County mayors, interviewed by Bay News 9 anchor Al Ruechel. The leaders will discuss the state of the beaches today and in the future. So far, the mayoral attendees include: John Hendricks, Madeira Beach; Tyler Payne, Treasure Island; Al Johnson, St. Pete Beach; David Will, Redington Beach; and Sam Henderson, Gulfport. Attend in person or online. Madeira Beach City Hall, 300 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach. 5 p.m. isps.spcollege.edu/ events/state-of-the-beaches-mayors-town-hall Friday, April 15 The Tiger’s in St. Pete Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood television series from Fred Rogers Productions airs daily on PBS KIDS. See the tiger live with songs (such as “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”), dancing, and theater fun all night long. Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S., St. Pete. 6 p.m. $28. 727-300-2000.
the Easter bunny at Gulfport’s Annual Fun in the Sun Day. Don’t miss the basket raffle, live music, food and fun. Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. mygulfport.us/calendar Women’s Expo Women from all walks of life are invited to a female-forward trade show. The expo features entertainment, speakers, and more. In addition to seminars and free screenings, discover new women run businesses and sample products throughout the day. The Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; registration required. 727-893-8134. Go Boho Looking for a home project? It all starts with furniture painting. Learn how to get that distressed look on your desks, headboards, or other items. No need to bring anything; this Beach House 5317-hosted class has everything you need. Beach House 5317, 5317 Gulfport Boulevard. 11 a.m. $50. beachhouse5317.com Free Play! Deal Maker by SAGES (Senior Actors Guild & Education Services) is a free play circling
Walk Away How well do you know Gulfport? The Gulfport Historical Society is hosting its original Gulfport Walking Tour and taking a stroll through the history and making of the town. This tour is led by wellknown, well-informed tour guides – all locals with a love for small town history and storytelling. The group starts off at the Gulfport History Museum and invites tour-goers to check out some historic artifacts before the tour. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S. 3 p.m. $15. gulfporthistoricalsociety.org Indie Picks Hand selected arts, plants, gifts and lovingly local creations all in one place, just once a month. Gulfport’s IndieFaire is back again for an outdoor market full of summer offerings. Shop the stalls, meet locals and dine downtown.
Things To Do continued on page 26
Saturday, April 16- Sunday, April 17 Art Fest Fun Join more than 100,000 visitors in Vinoy Park for the 47th Annual Mainsail Art Festival. Artists will sell their work, musicians will play, and food trucks will serve local fare. More than 250 juried fine art and fine crafts artists will sell paintings, ceramics, jewelry, wood, and other media. Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Pete. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. mainsailart. org
around ”Bob,” the family patriarch. Watch Bob as he tries to hold onto the car keys while making deals behind his family’s back. Law enforcement will stick around after the show to talk to theater-goers. Limited seating; reservations recommended. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. 2 p.m. sagestheater.org/events
THE NORTH END TAPHOUSE HAS A DELI-STYLE MENU WITH LOCALLY BREWED BEERS AND MORE.
We have LIVE ENTERTAINMENT every day and OPEN MIC every Tuesday, located in the Village Courtyard. Apr 14 The Tortugas ..............7-10 Apr 15 Mike Chin......................7-10 Apr 16 Chris Keller .................... 3-6 Shaun Hopper ..........7-10 Apr 17 Kyle Shaw....................... 3-6 Bandingo......................8-10
Saturday, April 16 Fun in the Sun Easter in Gulfport always includes an egg hunt. Find egg hunters, candy fanatics, and even
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Apr 18 Team Trivia............8:30-10 Apr 19 Open Mic .......................7-10
2908 1/2 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL
Apr 20 Hot Tonic ......................... 6-9
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Things To Do continued from page 25 Beach Boulevard South. 5-9 p.m. mygulfport.us/calendar Jazz Hands Larry Camp Trio is playing Creative Grape Wine Bar and bringing smooth jazz to accompany the sips and small plates. Drop in for live music and wine. Creative Grape Wine Bar, 3100 3rd Ave. N. S., St. Pete. 6:30-9:30 p.m. fb.com/creativegrape Monday, April 18 Dyngus Day The St. Petersburg Polish American Society presents the 5th annual Dyngus Day Dance. Dance to the New Sounds band and dig into a traditional Polish platter dinner. Take a polka dance lesson at 6 p.m. As the Polish American Society puts it, everyone is Polish on Dyngus Day, so wear red and white and prepare to have fun. St. Petersburg Polish American Society, 1343 Beach Dr. SE, St. Pete. 3:30-8 p.m. $10-12. 727-666-5357. Thursday, April 21 Bowie Night Gulfport’s Thursday Night Social has new star this April: David Bowie. DJ Daniel will play Bowie hits (“Ziggy Stardust”, “Space Oddity”, and other tunes.) all night long. As always, the Sea Dog Cantina-hosted has dancing, drinking, and eating in downtown Gulfport. No reservations needed. Sea Dog Cantina – Gulfport, 2832 Beach Blvd. S. 5-9 p.m. cantina. seadogbrewing.com
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Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Talk Check in for the first of The Gulfport LGBTQ Resource Center SpeakOut series, “The Intersection of LGBTQ Identity and Law.” Human rights advocate C. Dixon Osburn will discuss the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy in America, and how it affected the LGBTQ community. Read our feature about the series, page 7. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. 7 p.m.
Yoga in the Pool All the benefits of yoga, without the back pain. Aqua yoga improves balance, strength, and flexibility – all under the Florida sun. Switch out your yoga mat for a pool noodle every Thursday morning. St. Pete Beach Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. 11 a.m. $8. stpetebeach. org/345/Water-Exercise
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solution
ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR NEXT THURSDAY’S ISSUE IS FRIDAY BY 5 p.m.
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CLASSIFIEDS
Accounting
CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonprofits. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor. 10+ years experience. Call/text to 727-248-0714 or email to nspence@clearnumbers.biz
Caregivers
HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH
Serving the greater St. Petersburg area. Family owned and local business. Providing in-home personal aid companion care, after surgery care, 24-hour care, dementia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472 hwcg.com/StPete-Beach AHCA #299995153
CAROL’S ERRANDS & MORE
Do you need help with daily activities? I can be of assistance to you! Shopping, meal planning/meal prep, transportation to & from appointments, help around the home, and more. 727-365-0884. Cleaning / Housekeeping
If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 3 p.m. Computer Service
Handy Person
Gulfport Computer Repair
CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy helper. Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Start the New Year off right. St. Pete / Gulfport area. James: 407-244-6045
Fast Friendly Service
727-388-3493 2321 49th St S
Mon-Thu 10am-5pm
15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience
Computer Sales
Fax, Copy, Print
727-698-1213 Abccleanexteriors.com
In-Home services: Internet security, training, virus & spyware removal, maintenance and repair, data recovery. (PC & Mac) JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile computer repair – $40 per visit/hour – 727-643-0697; jmswebservices.com Electrical
Home Improvement
727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com
BLINDS, DRAPES, SHADES, & SHUTTERS INSTALLATION SERVICE
COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR
Installation and repair of all window treatments.Over 25 years experience. Jim Richardson. Phone/text-727-504-5909. Email: jrjruf@ gmail.com. Licensed/Insured
EC-13008313
Insurance
MAYNARD ELECTRIC
FUNERAL & CREMATION PLANNING & PRE-FUNDING
5030 78th Ave. N. Suite 12, Pinellas Park, FL 33781
• Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Circuits Added • Phone Wiring • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More
Learn how you can set up a plan simply and affordably, in advance – with a lifetime guarantee of NO rate increases, ever. Call Karon Dixon at 727-279-5185. Receive a free planning guide.
FREE ESTIMATES
Lawn & Landscape
24 Hour Service
525-0677
Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881
SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT!
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Heating & Air Conditioning
COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838
LICENSED AND INSURED
Window Cleaning, Pressure Washing, Soft Washing, and more! Licensed and Insured
HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs. Small jobs welcome. Quality work at reasonable prices. Honest. Reliable. Free estimates. John: 727-410-2201.
IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL
Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from PVC fence, siding - stucco - wood, pavers, railings, windows and most other surfaces around your house or business including signage. Cars, too. Free estimate and demonstration. Surprisingly low prices. Call/text 727-360-7070 Email RustStainRemoval@icloud.com
theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR
Rich Moseley, irrigation contractor. 25 years experience. Reasonable rates. Well & pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.
ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.
30 years experience. Painting expert plus wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arney 727-900-3459 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 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
AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured
Search Services of Florida, Inc.
Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist
Planting • Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Cabling/Bracing • Pruning/Shaping
727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com
Miscellaneous Service THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out. Recycling, organizing, and yard work. 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.
SKIP PICKUP & DELIVERY
Mondays and Tuesdays. Have 14 foot box truck, willing to help. 727-320-3297 Painting
BYRON JOHNSON PAINTING PLUS, INC.
Time to refresh the interior/exterior of your house or business? High quality, professional painting. Free estimates. Lic.#9894. Insured. 727-365-1088
Help Wanted
LADIES FASHION ACCESSORY SHOP & HAT SHOP
In John’s Pass need part-time sales help. Day & night shifts available. Great pay, fun atmosphere. 727-430-0276
REPORTER WANTED
The Gabber Newspaper seeks a reporter to cover breaking news, in-depth political stories, and Gulfport City Council. This is a salaried staff position which requires in-person meeting attendance and three days a week in the newsroom. A journalism or related degree, or experience as a journalist, required. Apply IN PERSON only: Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Please bring a resume and clips: 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. No phone calls or emails. We know the website asks you to email your resume but we only want applicants who show up in person. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time. Pay: $26,000.00 per year
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Positions Wanted
AVAILABLE FOR HIRE Professional cleaning lady & inside painting. Call Sandra 727-709-0513
Card of Thanks POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. 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 POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. 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 For Sale FOR SALE Hospital bed - $100. Higher lift $75. Wheelchair - $25/each. Child walker $75. Wooden shelf - $10. Bar with two stools - $50. Luggage, large - $10/each. Spectrum phone, new, never used, must have Spectrum service - $110. 727-331-2993 General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341
DESPERATELY SEEKING ZOOMERS!
We need to find where the former owner of Zoomers reopened his shop. We saw you last year at Siri’s and took down your info, but can’t find it. Please call or text 727-360-7070.
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Health & Fitness
• Silver Sneakers • Renew Active • Indoor Cycling • Yoga & More • Massage • Physical Therapy • Personal & Small Group Training
575 75th Ave, St Pete Beach 727-367-0075 www.iamfitforlife.com PROGRESS FUNCTIONAL FITNESS - IN HOME TRAINING Progress Functional Fitness is now operating in Pinellas County. I am a NASM certified personal trainer who specializes in functional fitness. There is no need to join a gym, as I bring the gym to you! Contact Andrew: andrewraddish@ gmail.com Legal Notice FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Todd Overton, owner, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of "Built Right Fences" located in Pinellas County, Florida, has registered the said name with the Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State.
Real Estate For Sale CONDO 890SQFT FSBO GULFPORT SHORES 2900 45th St. S. Unit 11. Refurbished throughout. On Boca Ciega Bay. See Zillow add for pictures. Navigate to FSBO. Built 1962, two stories, breathtaking sunrises and launches. Open House Sat./Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 727-322-2650.
Place your classified line ads online!
NEW HOME FOR SALE 5310 21ST AVE. S. GULFPORT
Deadline for classified ads is 3 p.m. Friday for the following week’s issue.
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 car garage. 2,098 htd sqft. No flood insurance required! Features: impact windows, stainless steel appliance package, cathedral ceilings, new fenced in yard with sprinkler system. Call David with C.R.R. 727-244-0989
I
GULFPORT
6202 7TH AVE. S. • $750,000 - SOLD
CONGRATS TO CAROLE AND CLAUDE!
WELCOME TO GLORIOUS GULFPORT!
727-418-8948
neldasellsfla@gmail.com
Nelda Hamm
3037 Beach Blvd. S. 505 Pasadena Ave. S.
Furnished Rentals 2/BD 1/BA WATERFRONT UPPER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Available April 4, 2022 through January 3, 2023. Parking, cable, utilities included. Utilities in excess of $100/ month passed on to the tenant. On-site Laundry, 90-day minimum lease. Small, non-shedding dogs welcome. $4500/ month. Contact JenM@hjmholdings.com 1/BD 1/BA WATERFRONT LOWER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Available April 22, 2022 through January 3, 2023. 90 day minimum lease. Parking, cable, utilities up to $100 tenant pays anything over. On-site Laundry, small non-shedding dogs welcome. $2500/ month. Contact JenM@hjmholdings.com
FOR RENT 2BD/2BA WATERFRONT CONDO AT TOWN SHORES
NEW Diplomat Split 2BR + 2BA AWESOME VIEWS! • $475,000
OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY April 16 from 11am-2pm
Furnished, covered parking, cable, gas utility included. No pets. Six month minimum lease, $2200/month. Call Jerry 727-688-7337
Submit your events online at thegabber.com 30
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Real Estate Snapshots
Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week
Here’s What Sold in Gulfport Last Week
5107 27th Ave. S. (Waterfront District) This 1,633-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1930, listed and sold for $625,000. 5939 9th Ave. S. (Stetson) This 1,404-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1955, listed for $599,000 and sold for $580,000.
CATHY SALUSTRI
805 58th St. S. (Stetson) This 1,043-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 2001, listed for $425,000 but sold for $449,000. 4747 Tradewinds Dr. S. (Waterfront District) This 1,400-square-foot, three-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1947, listed for $315,000 but sold for $360,000.
6202 7th Ave. S. (Stetson) This 2,040-square-foot, three-bedroom, fourbath home, built in 1957, listed and sold for $750,000.
5110 14th Ave. S. (Tangerine) This 838-square-foot, three-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1957, listed for $299,000 and sold for $295,000 after three days on the market. 5925 Shore Blvd. S., #410 (Town Shores) This 1,060-square-foot, one-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1972, sold for $250,000 – $5,000 more than the asking price – after six days on the market.
Old Florida Charm in the Heart of Old Gulfport
1840 51st St S • $299,000
5002 28th Ave S • $949,000
5108 Tangerine Ave S • $600,000
2902 53rd Ave S • $499,000
4724 Coronado Way S • $600,000 5419 Delette Ave S $975,000
2902 Beach Blvd S.
www.GulfportRealty.com
(727) 289-5500
#1 Listing Agency in Gulfport! theGabber.com | April 14, 2022 - April 20, 2022
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Meet Elaine. She wanted to foster new and meaningful relationships, to share her art, and to be involved. Living with her oldest son and daughter-in-law wasn’t providing the colorful life she needed. Now, at 92, she’s more engaged than ever, and happily living out her passions.
“She’s got friends there. She does her painting, which she wasn’t able to do before, because there really wasn’t a place for her to paint at my house. She teaches art there, and painting … she’s in her element. She’s amazing.” – Linda L., Elaine’s daughter-in-law
Call 727-202-3474 for a virtual or in-person private consultation today. Learn more about our community and hear from Elaine and her family: Hover phone camera over the QR code or visit wrcsafe.com/bocaciegabay.
1255 Pasadena Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33707 INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE Skilled Nursing at The Springs, Operated by Summit Care Inc.
FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083
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