The Gabber: April 18, 2024

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cathy@thegabber.com

Barry Loper barry@thegabber.com

Lauren Stern lauren@thegabber.com

Creative Director

Joey Neill Assistant Editor

Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

Patrick Heinzen cityhall@thegabber.com

Sebastián González de León y León sebastian@thegabber.com

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com Reporters

Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment

Morgan Banno, Food & Dining

voices

ADU: Accessory Dwelling Unit

A recent Gulfport City Council meeting made clear that the majority opposes Accessory Dwelling Units. (I’ve wanted to convert the detached garage with bathroom on my double lot to an ADU. Zoning says no.) A St. Pete statistic was uttered briefly and sounded odd.

So I called Derek Kilborn, manager of the Urban Planning and Historic Preservation Division. “Isn’t St. Pete welcoming of ADUs?” I asked first. “Absolutely!” he said, chronicling the zoning changes since 2007 that led to, in 2022 and 2023, 86 and 110 permitted ADUs, respectively. “We’ve been aggressive about ADUs,” which he called “invisible density” and “a way to increase housing stock but protect neighborhood character.”

The AARP and many other groups support them. Sarah Gottlieb wrote in the Stetson Law Review that ADUs “offer a solution for baby boomers and millennials” and others. It’s a good read.

So this aging single earner and parent can’t add a dwelling unit, but you know what was allowed? A fast-food drive-through with an intercom that faces my home. A council member said to me, “I guess that’s what happens when you live next to commercial.” No, dear sir. The bank and McDonald’s cited as precedents do not have intercoms directed toward residential. I hear not a peep from the new medical building. The noise next door ebbs and flows, but it’s unpredictable. That councilman [sic] suggested calling the police. After contacting Purple Square (“the city allowed it”) and city officials, and much more, it’s tempting but not what I ever wanted to do.

—Jody McMaster, Gulfport

Classified Ads

I am very happy to say that I used a Handyman that The Gabber had in its classifieds. I used Handyman Services and David Modlin did a great job and kept the place clean. And charged a fair price.

—Stuart Hollman

REMEMBER: “In a democracy, dissent is an act of faith.”

William Fulbright

Editor’s note: A story published on April 8 talks about a private bottle club that patrons of the Sazerac Lounge go to after leaving the bar. The Gulfport Police Chief Rob Vincent clarified to  The Gabber Newspaper  that although he cannot personally confirm it, his officers told him the club is the All Stars Club.

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

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Consider the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. While the first two are actions we can take as individuals, the third involves a lot more.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recyclables range from paper and cardboard to aluminum and lawn materials. Despite this, there are many misconceptions as to what people can recycle, and how to make sure your recyclables get properly processed.

Recycling in America

Americans recycled since before we called it that. According to History.com, recycling in 19th-century America began with clothing. Susan Strasser, author of Waste and Want: A Social History Of Trash said, “People recycled far more than we

do now.” In the late 1800s, people began to “recycle” everything from clothes to be used as handkerchiefs and garlic to be used as glue. Soon, there recycling grew into a trade.

According to Strasser, the ragman went door to door and bought cloth to make into rags. History.com explains, “When garbage pickup started in the late 19th century, many cities separated reusable trash from garbage designated for a landfill. Just like today, workers sorted via conveyor belts as early as 1905.” Despite this, only metal was truly recycled — at scrapyards.

This all changed during World War II, when people began repurposing everything they had for the war. In the 15 years following the end of the war, more began to change. People started to think twice about their trash. In the 1960s, private recycling

centers handled recycling. Fast forward to today, and that has largely changed.

How Does Recycling Work Today?

The EPA splits the recycling process into three main steps: collection, processing, and remanufacturing. Collection involves simple pickup of recyclable waste. Processing involves a facility preparing materials for remanufacture. Different facilities focus on different things, like a paper-processing facility. During this step, workers sort and clean materials. Staff sends those materials to another facility. Not all recyclables are made equal. Some, like glass and plastic, require more sorting and cleaning, and go to their own facilities for processing. From there,

hopefully, manufacturers reuse the materials.

The EPA details multiple environmental, economical, and community benefits of recycling. This includes everything from conserving natural resources, to saving energy, to creating jobs. Despite this, they also face challenges. According to the EPA, the main challenges are a lack of consistency in measurement, weak domestic markets for recycled materials, a national infrastructure that hasn’t taken modern waste streams into account, and most of all, a lack of knowledge in Americans on how to recycle properly.

Recycling in Gulfport

The Gabber Newspaper spoke with Kendrix Anderson, Gulfport Public Works Superintendent, to learn more about how recycling in Gulfport works.

“The recycling process starts with placing the recyclable item in the designated containers the City provides. The City provides two different colored bins for this purpose,” said Anderson.

Depending on where you live, recycling rules can differ. In Gulfport, the City recommends residents to split their recycling into two groups. One bin should be plastic, steel and aluminum. According to a Gulfport Recycling Guide flyer, residents can recycle “plastic bottles and/or containers, steel (tin) food cans such as soup or vegetable cans, aluminum cans.”

Some things that can’t go in this bin are plastic lids, and aerosol or paint cans. All recyclable materials need to be empty and rinsed. The other bin holds “mixed paper” such as “junk mail, office paper, magazines, cardboard, newspapers, and phone books.” All cardboard needs to be able to fit in the bin. This bin does not include “string, twine, plastic bags, paper towels, tissues, paper plates/cups or shredded paper.

“After that, our recycling collection team goes throughout the City and collects these items, which are transferred to a material recovery facility or ‘MRF.’ The MRF process-

es the recyclable items using both staffing and machines to create bales of each material type, which can then be sold to manufacturers,” said Anderson. “The City’s MRF is Waste Connections, located at 1190 20th St. N., St. Petersburg, which is around 4.5 miles away from the City.”

The City of Gulfport offers residents free recycling containers. To request a set or to learn more about special waste pickup, call Public

Gulfport’s Premier Personal Trainers

Works at 727-893-1089. The City also allows residents to drop off plastic bags at Gulfport City Hall (2401 53rd St. S.) or in collection buckets in City parks.

What About the Non-Recyclables?

Often times, people attempt to recycle things they can’t, or don’t properly prepare items for recycling.

“When items cannot be recycled, they are sent to the Pinellas County

Recycling continued on page 6

With Earth Day around the corner, learn about recycling in Gulfport, and whether you can make a difference.

WARREN THAYER

Recycling continued from page 5

Waste-to-Energy Plant. There, the items are incinerated, and the energy produced is used to create electricity. This electricity is then sold to Duke Energy. This process helps to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills while also providing a renewable energy source. This has no effect on the cost of the agreement between the City and the MRF,” said Anderson. “Waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities convert municipal solid waste (MSW) into electricity, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. The Pinellas County WTE is at 3095 114th Ave. N., St. Petersburg.”

Along with this, recyclable materials oftentimes are not profitable for processing. This is the case with recyclable plastics.

Why Isn’t Everything Recycled?

“Recycling is a commodity, and its demand depends on the market [demand] for the specific item. Municipalities provide the product to the processor, who then sells it to buyers for that particular item,” said Anderson. “China used to be the largest buyer of recyclable plastics in the nation; however, since 2018 they have stopped collecting the nation’s plastics due to excessive contamination. Uncontaminated plastics are still being recycled, just not at the rate they previously were. There is still a very positive market for products like mixed paper, cardboard, and metal.”

This is supported by a market sheet provided to  The Gabber Newspaper  by Anderson. Of the 12 listed materials, eight have an average market value (AMV). Some types of plastic like natural high density polyethylene (HDPE) and colored HDPE have an AMV of $7.73 and $2.39 per ton. According to millerrecyling.com, these plastics often make up things like laundry detergent and milk jugs. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics have an AMV of $10.40. PET is generally in cooking oil containers and plastic water and soda bottles.

Waste Management provided three guidelines to make sure your recyclables are clean: Recycle clean bottles, cans, paper, and cardboard. Keep food and liquid out of your recycling. No loose plastic bags and no bagged recyclables.

Types of Recyclable Plastic

The other four types of plastic don’t have an AMV, and aren’t part of the yearly composition of collected recyclables. The market sheet lists the four types of plastic that don’t have an AMV as “Mixed Bulky Rigid, Plastics #3-7, PP (Polypropylene), and SRP PS#56 (Polystyrene).

Mixed bulky rigid plastics are usually large HDPE products like lawn furniture and pet carriers. Plastics #3-7 refers to the number stamped on the product. Plastics three and four are Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) respectively. PVC makes up everything from tubing to furniture. LDPE makes plastic wrap commonly used in cooking. It can also be found in grocery bags. PP makes containers for things like yogurt and margarine. PS is common as styrofoam, but it is also in disposable coffee cups and to-go food containers.

Cost for Recycling in Gulfport

The cost to the City for processing recyclables is a flat $120 per ton. According to the 2023 Annual Recycling Report to Pinellas County, 2,058 single-family homes and 1,673 multi-family homes participate in recycling.

“When it comes to recycling, there are several factors that affect the process once our items make it to the MRF. One of these factors in product contamination, while the other is the market demand for recycled goods,” said Anderson. “Fortunately, our City had the lowest contamination rate in the County at 3.5%, according to the results of the 2020 Pinellas County Composition Study. We are currently participating in another composition study ... being conducted as we speak.”

National Numbers

The EPA began data collection on waste in the United States more than 35 years ago. According to the EPA, “the total generation of MSW in 2018 was 292.4 million tons, or 4.9 pounds per person per day. Of the MSW generated, approximately 69 million tons were recycled and composted, equivalent to a 32.1 percent recycling and composting rate. An additional 17.7 million tons of food were managed by other methods.”

The EPA specifies a hierarchy for methods of waste management. At the top, as the most preferred method is source reduction and reuse. From there, recycling and composting are best. After that, energy recovery and treatment and disposal round out the bottom.

ADOBE STOCK

More About Recycling in Gulfport

Although Gulfport is currently working on a Waste Composition Study, their current numbers are based on a study done in 2020 and released in 2021.

According to Anderson, “the City’s results were very encouraging. Because your city residents separate at the curb and we do not collect glass, almost 97% of the sampled material we provided was acceptable material. 86% of the sample was mixed paper, newspaper, and cardboard.”

The reason Gulfport doesn’t recycle glass?

“The City does not collect glass through curbside pickup because glass items can break during collection and transportation, which can contaminate the entire load of clean recyclables. At the MRF, it is a time-consuming task to remove all the broken glass pieces from other materials, which can result in a decline in its overall value. However, the City does have a large roll-off that accepts only glass at the neighborhood center drop-off location at 1617 49th St. S.,” said Anderson.

What Does Contamination Mean?

According to the website for Waste Management, “a container is considered contaminated when your recycling bin contains trash, the materials are soiled by food/ liquids, or items are placed in plastic bags. For recyclable materials to have a second life, they must be

clean and free from contaminants.”

They provide three guidelines to make sure your recyclables are clean: Recycle clean bottles, cans, paper, and cardboard. Keep food and liquid out of your recycling. No loose plastic bags and no bagged recyclables.

What Are the Alternatives to Recycling?

“There are many alternatives to recycling,” said Anderson. “Some of them include reducing the number of disposable items we use, purchasing reusable water bottles and non-disposable silverware, opting for electronic mail and newspapers, reducing the number of separate online delivery packages, and donating reusable items to community centers.”

According to National Geographic , 9% of all plastic waste collected gets successfully recycled. Through this process, it is “down cycled,” meaning that it becomes less useful each time it is recycled.

9% of all plastic waste collected gets recycled

Steel is a different story. Liveabout.com says that around 69% of the crude steel used in the U.S. in 2019 was made from recycled material. Worldwide, this number is closer to 32%. The EPA has numbers on both glass and paper from 2018. In the U.S., 31.3% of glass was recycled. Paper competes with steel, as the country recycled 68% of paper and cardboard.

The Gabber Newspaper  reached out to the manager of Waste Connections of Florida for Pinellas County and Gulfport statistics, but didn’t get a response.

In 2020, Forbes wrote an article discussing a business called Globechain. According to Forbes, “Globechain has been established in the circular economy since 2013. They help businesses reduce waste by providing a reuse marketplace for listing unneeded items — all items are free for collection by charities, SMEs and individuals, keeping them in use and away from landfill.”

So Does Recycling Actually Work?

Although the whole country practices recycling, much of the material that goes to recycling bins isn’t successfully recycled.

Despite reuse and reduction being viable and ideal options, recycling is useful and supported by the City. Some of the issues surrounding recycling are larger than individuals. However, learning more about how to properly recycle is a viable way to make sure your individual recycling effort is successful.

“The City encourages that all residents continue to participate in any recycling program available to them, as it continues to provide positive impacts to the environment by promoting the conservation of natural resources, curbing waste and pollution, and conserving energy,” said Anderson.

La-Fired

Kenneth City Fires Town Manager for Lying, Hostile Work Environment

By Sebastián González de León y León

Kenneth City Town Council fired its town manager, Lacy LaFave.

Minutes after getting sworn in as the town’s new mayor, Mayor Megan Zemaitis successfully motioned to terminate LaFave with cause. This termination is her first official act as Kenneth City’s mayor.

LaFave’s termination dominated the April 11 Town Council meeting, echoing throughout the meeting. She is the latest in a string of town managers to leave the executive position in Kenneth City.

Michael Vieno, the police chief of Kenneth City, now serves as acting town manager while the Council looks for a new town manager.

With Cause, Without Cause, or Resignation?

Council member Bob Arrison laid out the crossroads facing the Town Council: “Continue employment with our city manager, to terminate employment with cause, [and] to terminate employment without cause.”

Earlier, the legal representative of LaFave — S.M. David Stamps, III Esquire — sent a letter to Town Attorney Ralf Brookes. The letter had the terms for a “mutually agreeable separation.”

“Ms. LaFave is entitled to a 20-

week severance package in the event of termination without cause,” Stamps said in the letter. “Ms. LaFave requests 20 weeks of health insurance and retirement benefits.”

The letter continued to state she won’t “seek any legal action against the Town of Kenneth City” and for the Town to allow her to “leave in good standing.”

LaFave’s Record

LaFave applied for the position of senior executive assistant on Jan. 17, 2023. The Town shared a copy of her cover letter with The Gabber Newspaper; in that letter, LaFave wrote that she holds a Bachelor’s  in Science from Northern Michigan University, with a focus on community health education. Additionally, she stated she was completing her Master’s degree in Public Administration.

Documentation presented by Zemaitis during the April 11 meeting included an email from the NMU’s Records Office confirming that LaFave graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor’s in Science.

Regarding her master’s, “we have no record,” the email dated in February 2024 said. “She started the MPA program in May 2017. Her last date of attendance was May 2021.”

The email said she is not currently enrolled. The Gabber Newspaper reached out multiple times to NMU, but was unable to independently confirm the shared information via email with Zemaitis.

Lacy LaFave (left) during a Town Council meeting, presenting an award for Lealman’s Fire Chief Richard Graham (center) in March. On the right, is the former mayor of Kenneth City, Robert Howell.

SEBASTIÁN GONZÁLEZ DE LEÓN Y LEÓN

Zemaitis’ Concerns

Mayor Zemaitis stated her reasons for concern with LaFave. She shared documents with fellow council members to support termination with cause.

“The most notable is that a review of your resume and cover letter shows that there is no record of you having a bachelor’s or master’s degree in public administration,” Zemaitis said.

“There have been numerous issues with your professional conduct,” Zemaitis noted. “Day-to-day acrimony towards other employees at the Town of Kenneth City have driven our valued employees to turn in their resignations.

“Additionally, disrespectful and inconsiderate responses to the members of this Kenneth City Council have been frequent and inappropriate,” she added.

With that line of arguments, Zemaitis asked for a motion to terminate LaFave with cause.

Motion to Terminate LaFave

Council member Arrison presented the motion. However, Arrison asked for five minutes to review the documentation provided only hours before the meeting.

This meeting had the most attendance so far in 2024. During the break, some members of the public asked “what’s going on?”

Before the motion resumed, Kristin Cook, the town clerk read a letter by former Mayor Robert Howell. He did not attend this meeting.

A Win for Zemaitis

The former head of the Town Council acknowledged Zemaitis as the winner of the electoral race with a “rigorous campaign.” Official results of the March 19 election concluded with Zemaitis winning with 555 votes. Howell received 217.

The former mayor said in his letter that “there is a certain faction in this town ... void of kindness, ethics, and professionalism.” He also said that “two councilwomen [sic] have rigorously attacked” LaFave. Howell included words of support for the now-terminated town manager.

“LaFave has been the best thing for this town and has worked diligently,” Howell stated. “Our town, that was on the brink of bankruptcy and being dissolved, now has the first balanced budget in over seven years.”

Some members of the audience booed and laughed when she finished reading.

With that, Council proceeded to address LaFave’s fate as town manager.

LaFave’s Termination

Council member Kyle Cummings expressed his support for LaFave.

“She’s done everything we’ve asked,” he stated. “I feel she’s done a great job.”

Howell’s argument — that LaFave had delivered a balanced budget and that she had obtained money for appropriations — resonated with him. He urged the council to “come together as a team and move forward.”

“If you need fraud to get a position, I’m sorry, that’s not that’s not upstanding,” Chris Vanderkooi said when the public had its turn to speak. “And we are an upstanding town, are we not? We don’t need you to be here if that’s how you got your job.”

Cummings added that this was “sad for the town.” He added that “we are at a point to move forward and to pave roads” he said to applause by some in the public. Cummings added he did not want a lawsuit to impact the town.

Council member Arrison explained that terminating her could result in litigation and a hefty payment, per the agreement filed by her attorney.

Town attorney Brookes informed the new mayor that there was an extra step in the process: a “mini-trial” to review the evidence to terminate with cause, Brookes explained. LaFave would also be able to present evidence in her defense.

With four votes in favor, Council fired LaFave. Council member Cummings cast the dissenting vote.

LaFave’s Parting Message

“I just would like to say thank you to the community for allowing me to serve in the capacity for the last La-Fired continued on page 10

La-Fired continued from page 9

year,” LaFave said.

LaFave noted that the position landed in her lap. And she defended her work before heading out.

“I didn’t fraudulently apply for anything,” she said. “I did what I could and I’m really proud of my accomplishments.”

LaFave was asked to turn in all the government property in her possession. She left, accompanied by Chief Viena.

“I’m looking forward to the hearing,” LaFave told The Gabber Newspaper as she exited the Kenneth City Community Hall.

Government Business

During the meeting, Bonnie Noble was unanimously re-assigned to serve as vice-mayor. Mayor Zemaitis assured the public they did not want to lose the employees working for the town of Kenneth City, giving props to the current town staff.

Contractors were uncertain as to what would happen next. Justin Tabb, a digital media strategist hired by LaFave expressed that the events at the meeting had taken him by surprise.

“You gave me a first,” he said. Members of the public laughed.

LaFave hired Tabb to develop a new website for Kenneth City. The current website has out-of-date information. City officials clarified that the platform used to publish does not work.

The council discussed that they would review what he had done so far and provide feedback. Noble had asked for the inclusion of feedback previously provided by the public.

“I made it very clear prior to Ms. LaFave ever reaching out to a web person that the council had a list of requirements,” Noble said.

Contractors hired for planning and zoning as well as a finance team is reviewing the 2022 finances of Kenneth City provided updates, and planners and civil engineers also addressed their work in the public meeting. The Kenneth City finance team said that they were currently within budget.

Members of the public invited residents to attend a fishing event with the Kenneth City Police Department

and the Spring Festival of Kenneth City, slated to happen on May 4. And some gave a welcoming message to Zemaitis.

Zemaitis presided over the approval of her first two ordinances. One established a fee schedule for planning, zoning, and floodplain review; the other amended rules for post-disaster reconstruction of nonconforming structures.

LaFave’s Response

Upon request, LaFave sent a written statement to The Gabber Newspaper to clarify the situation and disapprove of the way the events transpired.

“The abrupt decision,” she stated, “represents a profound disregard for the essential principles of due process and transparency,” LaFave said.

“As a graduate of Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science, my academic and professional paths have been marked by a commitment to public service,” the statement continued.

“Throughout my service, I have navigated numerous challenges,” she said, “which has occasionally necessitated intermittent progress toward my Master’s degree capstone.

“Despite these personal and professional hurdles, my dedication to enhancing community wellbeing and governance in Kenneth City has never wavered.”

LaFave stated her achievements, “have stabilized and fortified the town’s infrastructure and ensured greater economic prosperity and social sustainability.

“Looking forward, I am committed to resolving this matter in a manner that respects legal standards and community trust,” she added. “My aim is to vindicate my professional reputation while continuing to advocate for progression, transparency and accountability that define good governance.

“As I contend with these challenging circumstances, my priorities remain quite simple. Justice will be served to safeguard the principles, values, and integrity that every community rightfully expects,” LaFave said.

according to gulfport

Breath Mints, Snickerdoodles, and Golf Random Quotes from Gulfportians

By Chris Shablak

Snickerdoodles and Guinness.

—Kevin Stanley’s favorite snack pairing

“Never pass on a breath mint or a chance to use the restroom.” —Steven Watson’s advice to his nephew while handing out Tic Tac mints

“It didn’t matter what their real name was. They were all named after strippers.” —Alice Frasier, talking about calling all her brother’s dates ‘Nikki’

“I’m not risking a lifetime ban. I’ll call you Friday.” —Ron Hoskin’s explanation to his daughter why he couldn’t use his cellphone at the Masters Tournament

“If someone always tells you how good they are, they probably aren’t.” —Brian Guertz’s advice to his son

New LGBTQ+ Liaison in St. Pete

Stay Up-to-Date With Pinellas Businesses

By Cameron Healy

The City of St. Petersburg appointed Eric Vaughan as the City’s new LGBTQ+ Liaison April 12. Jim Nixon served as the St. Petersburg LGBTQ+ Liaison for seven years.

“Eric Vaughan brings strong connections within the LGBTQ+ community, both locally and nationally, to the City’s LGBTQ+ Liaison role,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch.

Meet Eric Vaughan

According to the City, Vaughan served as the LGBTQ+ Liaison for the Department of Education in New York City. In May 2023, Vaughan worked for the City of St. Petersburg as a Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator in the Mayor’s Office.

The City stated that “during his time at NYC’s Department of Education, Vaughan held the title of Associate Director of LGBTQ Programs and Policy.”

Vaughan attended the University of South Florida. He received a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature in 2012. Later, he received a Master’s of Arts in Social Justice, and a Master’s of Arts in Journalism.

Prior to his appointment, Vaughan held roles with the Big Brother Big Sisters of Pinellas County and Community Tampa Bay. He volunteered on the board of organizations such

as the Barbershop Club, The Studio@620, and The Modern Griot Corporation. According to the City, Vaughan “is a graduate of Leadership St. Pete 2022 and serves on LSP’s planning committee.”

“I am confident that he will build on Jim Nixon’s efforts to foster an environment of acceptance and support across St. Petersburg,” Welch said. “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a city where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive.”

From Nixon to Vaughan

“We want to welcome Eric to this critical role and thank Jim for his many years of dedication to inclusivity and equality,” the City of St. Petersburg wrote in a Facebook post the same day of Vaughan’s appointment.

Nixon managed the City’s Human Rights Council Municipal Equality Index during his time as St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ+ Liaison. This index is a “comprehensive assessment based on non-discrimination laws, municipal services, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality,” according to the City’s press release.

According to the City, Nixon led collaborative initiatives with St. Pete Pride and Metro Inclusive Health. This includes the success of reopening and managing Metro’s LGBTQ Welcome Center.

Nixon isn’t going anywhere. He will continue to serve as the City’s Director of the St. Pete Service Center.

The City of St. Petersburg appointed Eric Vaughan as St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ+ Liaison.

THE CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG

A Tale as Old as Time

A Disney Classic in the Park

By Cathy Salustri

The first time I saw Beauty and the Beast, I didn’t see the Disney version. Oh, it had already gone to video. And while I likely would have eventually seen it — Disney’s pervasive like that — what really made me want to see it was seeing the 1946 version: Jean Cocteau’s La Belle et la Bête. This gripping, hauntingly beautiful film touched me. When I did see Disney’s animated version of this story, it pleased me that so much of it held onto the surreal qualities of the Cocteau film.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast at American Stage in the Park is lovely. While it’s no Cocteau film, it’s also not supposed to be. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is a lovely retelling of a “tale as old as time.” (Dammit, Howard Ashman, you were right — there’s really no better way to describe this story.) It’s a story of looking beyond the surface. Some schools of thought believe it’s an allegory for the AIDS

epidemic. They may not be wrong; Ashman died of AIDS shortly before Disney’s Beauty and the Beast animated film hit theaters in 1991. He likely witnessed the quite real ostracization of people with HIV or AIDS in the ‘80s. Certainly, the narrative of the story fits there, too.

Sweet Park Setting

No matter how you view the story, American Stage tells it exceptionally well. It’s made all the sweeter by its park setting. I once worked at thenDisney-MGM Studios, and part of my job involved crowd control for the Beauty and the Beast stage show. That was — and is — an outdoor theater, too. While the two sets differ quite a bit from the ones at American Stage in the Park, it feels like an expanded theme park show.

The performers, each one on point and flawless, bring a Disney-caliber performance to American Stage. While the classic songs, treasured story, and overall zeit-

geist of the show  would make any performance delightful, the cast here makes the show. Belle (Alexi Ishida) and Beast (Joey Birchler), of course, are standouts. Gaston’s (Nik Vlachos) a deliciously evil delight in tight pants. But... please can we talk for a moment about Lumiere? Mathenee Treco plays him as a sly, clever genius, and had he painted a different picture of the candle-representing, somewhat foppish, maître d’, the show would not have delivered on as many levels as it did.

See Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in the Park

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

American Stage in the Park, Demens Landing Park, Bayshore Drive & Second Avenue South, St. Petersburg. Through May 5: Wed.-Sun., 7:30 p.m; Pet night: April 14; Pride night, April 21. $35-$45, chairs and blanket seating. 727-823-7529, americanstage.org.

While the entire cast of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at American Stage in the Park was amazing, Lumiere gave audiences a little something extra. CHAZ

Galactic Smoothie and Poké

Healthy Choices at FitStop Eatery in Seminole

By Morgan Banno

As a budding nutrition coach and fitness junkie, going out to eat poses its challenges when I’m trying to eat healthy. I work with an array of clients who are at various points in their wellness journey, all to whom I teach how to lose weight with sustainable nutrition. We focus on calorie deficits and eating macronutrients (proteins, carbs, and healthy fats) all while logging food intake for the day. Dining out is one of my client’s biggest struggles because few restaurants who tout themselves as “healthy” actually are. This isn’t to say that all restaurants are bad for you, but finding healthy choices that provide actual nutrition are hard to come by. Thankfully, FitStop Eatery in Seminole is one of the few restaurants where nutrition-conscious, clean eaters can enjoy the menu guilt-free.

Healthy Smoothies

Located on Park Boulevard, across from Five Bucks Drinkery, is FitStop Eatery. Owners Kaleigh and Robert Krysl birthed FitStop as a food truck servicing local gyms, CrossFit boxes, and fitness facilities in St. Pete and Clearwater. I’d often look forward to the days where they’d park their truck outside my CrossFit gym. That’s when I’d treat myself to an icy (and nutritious), post-workout smoothie. FitStop grew to be so big that in 2020, Kaleigh and Robert leased their first brick-and-mortar in Seminole — and the shop is thriving.  Known for their smoothies, FitStop’s menu is unique because they not only list the calories on each of their items but they also include the macro counts. For people losing weight or those of us who track our daily intake, macros are key. The smoothie menu features concoctions made with various protein powders, sugar-free syrups, and fresh fruits. Enjoy slurps such as the Elvis Presley, made with peanut

butter, banana, hazelnut, and vanilla protein powder. Or try the Peppermint Patty, which has peppermint, sugar-free cookie syrup, and chocolate protein powder. My favorite is the Candy Bar ($5.99). Clocking in at 215 calories and 34 grams of protein, this smoothie has peanut butter, chocolate protein, caramel, and hazelnut, and it tastes like a Twix. And it’s not every day you find a smoothie bar that offers healthy add-ons like creatine, collagen, charcoal, and glutamine ($.50 each).

Bowls Bliss

In addition to protein-packed smoothies, FitStop also offers protein powder açaí bowls ($11.43),

poké bowls ($11.99), chicken bowls ($10.99), and salads ($11.99). They also offer custom bowls (starting at $10.99) with healthy ingredients like grilled chicken and tofu, a smothering of fresh vegetables and fruits, homemade sauces, and toppings.

Kaleigh and Robert are Star Wars collectors, and the entire interior is decked out in galactic memorabilia. It’s not the vibe you’d expect from a smoothie and poké shop, but in an odd way, it works. At the least, it makes for an entertaining dining experience as you sip your shake.

FitStop Eatery, 10763 Park Blvd., Seminole. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 727-6234956, fitstopeatery.com.

The Candy Bar smoothie at FitStop Eatery is my favorite — and packed with protein.

MORGAN BANNO

Big Boy Bagels

Breakfast at St. Pete Bagel Co.

By Morgan Banno

The New York-style bagels at St. Pete Bagel Co. are made fresh daily.

I’m not much of a morning eater. My breakfast usually consists of a post-workout, creatine-laced protein shake and that’s all. But when I really have a craving for carbs, a New York-style bagel with extra cream cheese is my go-to. What I love about New York bagels is how they’re smothered in seasonings, both top and bottom.

St. Pete Bagel Co. is a Tampa Bay staple when it comes to fresh bagels and gourmet donuts. With locations in Dunedin, Kenneth City, Largo, and St. Pete, this place is a must-visit when you’re looking for a fresh, fulfilling breakfast on-the-go.

Bagels and Spreads

The bagels at St. Pete Bagel Co. are massive. They’re made fresh daily and are available in a multitude of both sweet and savory flavors. I noshed on an everything bagel with chive cream cheese, and it was divine. Most places skimp on the cream cheese, so I

always end up having to ask for extra. Not here. My sesame seed bagel with garlic cream cheese was chewy with loads of garlic flaking throughout. And my cheddar cheese bagel with pickled jalapeño salsa was out-of-this-world delicious with a hint of heat. The bagels are toasted to perfection, so they’re crunchy on the outside, but still have their quintessential chewy inside. Cream cheese

spreads also come in a variety of flavors, including veggie, bacon, honey walnut raisin, and strawberry. The combinations are endless.  Don’t miss other breakfast options like the sandwiches with your choice of eggs, meat, and cheese ($4.75-$6.10) and the deli sandwiches. I couldn’t pass up classic, homemade chicken salad on fresh wheat bread ($8.15), but their chicken salad comes in three flavors: OG, cranberry almond, and spicy. In addition, there are a selection of other sandwiches including a club, corned beef melt, lox, Cuban, and veggie, as well as hot paninis.

House-Roasted Coffee

Most bagel spots also offer coffee, but few establishments actually roast their beans in house like St. Pete Bagel Co. The coffee is mild compared to Kahwa and Black Crow. But the full espresso bar promises sips such as lattes and café con leche. These are available hot or iced. They also serve frappes, hot chocolate, and fresh fruit smoothies.

If you have more of a morning sweet tooth, I recommend an apple fritter or long john donut. Like the bagels, they’re huge and go perfectly with a hot cup of coffee. The cinnamon rolls ($2.30) are gigantic and are coated in creamy frosting. And the cronuts with Nutella ($3.80) are every choco-holic’s dream.

St. Pete Bagel Co., 4419 66th St. N., Kenneth City. Mon.-Sat., 6 a.m.1 p.m.; Sun., 7 a.m.-1 p.m., 727-2019645, stpetebagelco.com.

MORGAN BANNO

Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S. •

727-893-5657 • /gulfportseniorcenter

Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events.

Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, the hourly capacity is limited. You must call to pre-register.

Supplemental food assistance for qualifying Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Proper verification required prior to use of the pantry.

GEMS (Gulfport Extended Mobility Service) provides affordable Door-to-Door transportation service, rides to medical appointments, shopping, and much more for Gulfport residents, 55 years of age or older or disabled. 727-893-2242.

Medical Equipment Lending Program provides gently used wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and other medical equipment to seniors who need it. Supplies limited. Daily Reassurance Calls are available for senior Gulfport residents to provide a friendly check in service connecting homebound or isolated seniors to the community beyond their front door.

SPECIAL EVENTS

TED Talks Thought provoking ideas worth spreading. Sponsored by Wellcare. Apr. 18, 1 p.m.

In the Kitchen with Chef Jack: Moussaka Improve your culinary skills with step-bystep instruction from Chef Jack. Sponsored by The Home Care Agency. Apr. 18, 4 p.m. Craft Show & Tell Showcase the skill & ingenuity of your handmade crafts and share the personal history of their creation. MUST Pre-register. Apr. 19, 1:30 p.m.

CarFit One-on-One Trained volunteers provide information to ensure the safest fit for older drivers and their vehicles. Make your apt today for this FREE, interactive, and educational program. Apr. 23, by appointment only

Pre-Planning Seminar Jennifer Prouty of Sylvan Abbey answers questions about your final wishes and what you need to know. Apr. 23, 2 p.m.

Gulfport Casino Ballroom

Impacs Sock Hop Apr. 19, 7 p.m. Advance tickets available at Casino & Beach Bazaar. $15 / $25 for two. Tickets purchased day-of: $20

Music & Dancing with Carol Baker & Daniel Fugazzotto Apr. 21, 4 p.m., Lesson; 5 p.m., Dancing. $15 admission / $25 couple

Floridania Fest Apr. 27, 9:30 a.m. 2024

Florida Memorabilia Swap Meet. The ul-

Happy Birthday to YOU! Come celebrate this month’s birthdays whether it’s your birthday or not. Sponsored by Encompass Health. Apr. 24, 3 p.m.

Armchair Adventures: Italy Brad Bruner shares his adventures living & travelling around Italy. MUST pre-register. Apr. 25, 3:30 p.m.

EPIC Coffee Connections EPIC Generations invites LGBTQ+ adults for coffee, friendship, & support. Apr. 26, 10 a.m., Rm. 106

GEMS GETAWAYS

SENIOR CENTER REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, however there is no need to be a GEMS Member to enjoy these exciting Gulfport Getaways. Trips are non-refundable & subject to change without notice.

Bingo @ The Chattaway Apr. 25, sponsored by Dedicated Senior Medical

727-893-1070

• 5500 Shore Blvd. S.

timate marketplace for Florida souvenirs, collectables, postcards, art & more! $5 Admission; (Kids 14 & under free Contra Dance with Tampa Friends of Old Time Dance Apr. 28, 3:30 p.m. Contra lesson; 4 p.m., Contra dancing with Band & Caller. $10 admission

Ballroom Dancing with USA Dance Apr. 29, 7 p.m. Lesson, dance hosts, great DJ mu-

sic. USA Dance Members $10, Non-members $13.

Casino Weekly Dances

Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12 p.m. $15 ($25 couple)

Argentine Tango: Tues., 6:30 p.m., $10

Swing: Weds., 7 p.m. $10

Latin Night: Thurs., 7 p.m. $10

Keep Calm & Carry Yarn Join us for a weekly knitting and crochet group in our Reading Garden! Mondays, 10:15 a.m.

Baby Time For children two and younger and their caregivers. Sing songs, read books, enjoy lap bounce rhymes, and meet other caregivers with infants and young toddlers. Older siblings also welcome. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.

Teen Space Spend time with friends and meet new ones. Play games, make art, watch movies, or just hang out. Activities vary – and what we do is up to you! Ages 12-18 only. Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

Storytime Join us for stories, rhymes, music. Thursdays, 10:15 & 11 a.m.

Gulfport Book Club This month's selection is Caste: the Origins of our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson. Available in print and audio from the Circulation Desk. Apr. 18, 2 p.m.

Lego Club It's time to build! Join us for some Lego creativity and see what construction challenges we have for you this week. Recommended for Grades K-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Apr. 20, 2 p.m.

All programs free and subject to change.

Seniors in Service Outreach for Volunteers Table with information on volunteer opportunities for helping seniors in our community. A representative will be available to answer questions. FMI, contact Carmen Rodriguez, 727-382-7121, email crodriguez@seniorsinservice.org . Website: seniorsinservice.org . Apr. 23, 11:30 a.m.

COF Presents: Urban Forestry Join guest speaker, Carolyn Cheatham Rhodes M.S., Environmental Program Manager II and Urban Forester for a timely discussion. We live in an urban forest ecosystem where urban trees are more than just green infrastructure. Urban trees in Gulfport and across Pinellas County enhance resilience, improve health and well-being, and strengthen community bonds. Carolyn will discuss how Pinellas County manages and maintains trees, new information on tree canopy numbers in Gulfport and statewide from the Florida Forest Service, and updates from the Florida Urban Forestry Council. Sponsored by the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Library. Apr. 25, 1 p.m.

STEAM Club: Tampa Bay Estuary Program STEAM is short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Join us as we explore these concepts through stories and hands-on activities. This month’s guest is the Tampa Bay Estuary Program. Recommended for Grades K-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information call 727893-1074. Apr. 24, 4 p.m.

Trivia Night It’s time to play and compete by answering a prepared list of questions. If enough players attend, team play is also an option. Apr. 25, 6 p.m.

Get Growing City horticulturist, Toffer Ross, answers all your questions about gardening, trees, and landscaping in Florida. May 8, 1 pm.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Basics

Presentation on Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D and what they mean to you. FMI, visit www.floridashine.org . Call the Reference Desk, 727-893-1073 to leave contact information for individual appointments. May 15, 1 p.m.

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents Pickleball

Mon., 9 a.m - 1 p.m., Intermediate & Advanced Players

Tues., 9 a.m - 1 p.m., Beginners

Tues., 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., All Levels of Play

Thurs., 9 a.m - 1 p.m., All Levels of Play Adult Basketball

Wed. & Fri., 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Thurs., 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Table Tennis

Tues. & Thurs. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Game Room

Mon., Wed., & Fri., 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

PROGRAMS

School Year Child Care Program Registrations continue for the 2023-2024 School Year Child Care Program for children who are in Kindergarten thru age 14. Bus transportation is available from Pasadena Fundamental, Gulfport Montessori and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program hours are until 5:30 p.m. with extended hours available until 6 p.m. for an extra charge. Please contact the Recreation Center for more details.

Summer Program Registrations continue for children who will complete Kindergarten thru age 14. The 10-week program is June 3rd – August 9th. Hours of registration are Monday–Friday from 9a.m.–5p.m. Summer camp hours are from 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. with extended hours available until

6 p.m. for an additional fee. There will be 25 available spots for the discount rate for Gulfport residents in need of assistance. Eligibility requirements for the discount is either a letter from the child’s school verifying the child’s acceptance of free/reduced lunch or a letter verifying the child’s acceptance of assistance from financial aid or a related program. Detailed pricing is currently available at the Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S. Call 893-1068 for any questions.

Teen Night Registrations continue for the 2023-2024 Teen Night Program for teens in middle and high school, students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required: $3; $25 nonresidents.

VPK Program We are currently accepting VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) Vouchers for the 2024-2025 School Year. VPK is FREE for children who live in Florida and who turn 4 years of age by September 1st. Parents must apply on the Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas, Inc. website (https://elcpinellas. org/for-families/voluntary-pre-kindergarten/) and receive a Certificate of Eligibility which needs to be turned in during pre-registration. Program hours are from 8:45a.m.12:30p.m. and will begin on September 3rd. Hours for pre-registration are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

CLASSES

Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call Jami: 727-8931079.

Ballet/Tap Tues., 5:30 p.m. ages 5-7; 6:30 p.m. ages 8-16. $40/month. Call Lisa: 727742-2594.

Intermediate Tap Tues., 7:30 p.m. $20/ month. Call Lisa: 727-742-2594.

Cardio Tennis Tues. & Thurs, 6 p.m.; Adult lessons are at Chase Park, 28th Ave. & 53rd St. S. $15/class. Mo: 727-515-1454.

Danskinetics Tues., 10 - 11 a.m.; $6/class or $20/month. Carol: 845-654-0609.

F.I.T Tennis Fri., 6p.m.; Free for true beginners age 21 and up. Lessons are at Chase Park, 28th Ave & 53rd St. S. Mo: 727-5151454.

Fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu Tues., 6:30-8 p.m. for children and Mon., 10-11 a.m. for adults, $25/drop-in or $100/month. Contact Joseph Resendez at thehighlyrecommended01@gmail.com.

Hatha Yoga Wed., 6:15 p.m. $12/class or $40/month. Denise: 727-251-8868.

Youth Hip Hop Fri., 6:30 p.m., ages 7-11; 7:30 p.m. ages 12 and up. $40/month. Call Lisa at 727-742-2594.

Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m., $6/class, $20/ month. Magda: 727-214-7868.

A Fiery Festival

Spice Up Your Life at Pinellas Pepper Fest

By Patrick Heinzen

If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen. But if you can take the heat, the 17th annual Pinellas Pepper Fest was for you. On April 13 and 14, vendors filled England Brothers Park in Pinellas Park to sell anything with peppers in it. Mild to tongue-burning salsa, sauce, and jerky... the fest had it all.

Sauce Galore

Despite the blistering heat of many of the sauces, most vendors had sauce for the weakest tongues as well. Su Yum came to play with their wide lineup of five unique sauces, which ranged from a jalapeño green sauce, and another unique green papa -

ya sauce, to their signature heat stroke. The heat didn’t stop there. Customers could sample and buy their rubs as well, including a spicy Jerk rub.

Local vendors got some love too. Your Hot Sauce Company, based in St. Petersburg, came with their hot sauce, spicy barbecue, jelly, rubs, and teriyaki. Their products had eclectic names, often politically themed.

Carlos’ Consuming Fire brought their “simple is better” philosophy. With unique takes on classic flavors such as mango habanero, their heat brought some extra spice to the fest. Saucy Queen, another Tampa Bay company, had signature salsas. These offered

another way to introduce new flavors and heat to people who aren’t quite used to it.

Rubs and More

Sauce isn’t the only way to get your mouth stinging. While many of the sauce companies also brought their rubs and seasonings, some were dedicated to just that. Old Saratoga Spice Rubs showcased their different levels of heat, and their flavors, with smoked salt and a special five-pepper blend. The representative exemplified their slogan, “If you love it, rub it.”

Throughout the sampling process, he went through all his favorite recipes for dishes, dips, and more.

Carlos’ Consuming Fire brought some unique takes on classic flavors.

PINELLAS PEPPER FEST

“A rub man never leaves others out to dry,” he said, as he handed a chip with sour cream to a customer who was having some trouble with the heat.

While the fest was tailored to spice, not all of the vendors fo-

cused on that. Other vendors sold wine, cigars, jewelry, and cell phone service. Along with this, food trucks snuck in between the tents to serve everything from tacos, to burgers, and beyond. Customers enjoyed beer, cocktails,

Virtual Group Sessions

Benefits: In-Person Group Sessions

Sponsored by:

and live music, while kids got to play in a bounce house, and learn archery.

If you need a little bit of spice in your life, get ready for next year’s Pinellas Pepper Fest in 2025, when the heat returns.

Group Schedule:

4-Week In-Person Group Quit Sessions

BayCare - St. Anthony's Hospital 1200 7th Avenue North, St. Petersburg Fridays, April 19 - May 10, 2024 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

One-Time Virtual Group

Monday, April 8, 2024 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Monday, April 22, 2024 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

4-Week Virtual Group

Thursdays, April 4 - April 25, 2024 12:00 pm - 1:00pm

Thursdays, April 11 - May 2, 2024 7:00 am - 8:00 am

For more information on Group Quit sessions, contact:

Gulfcoast North AHEC 813-929-1000

Su Yum Foods wowed with their Carribean sauces and rubs.

gabs

What’s the Best Thing You Can Do For the Environment?

Rip out your lawn and Xeriscape.

Install solar.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD MD

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

ON-SITE BLOOD DRAWS • GENERAL SICK VISITS

CARDIOLOGY SERVICES • FLU SHOTS • PT/INR B-12 SHOTS • SPORTS PHYSICALS• WELL WOMAN EXAMS

Stop using plastic.

Plant a tree.

GEL JOINT INJECTIONS • PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA)

WELLNESS SCREENINGS • ELECTROCARDIOGRAMS WOUND CARE • PHYSICAL THERAPY

Last Week’s Question and Results:

How Do You Know It’s Spring in Florida?

NON-SURGICAL FRACTURE MANAGEMENT, ETC.

Snowbirds leave. (59%)

You no longer wear socks with your flip flops. (22%)

Municipal elections finally end. (11%)

Rainstorm washes away the pollen. (8%)

Vote and see all our Gabs answers at thegabber.com/ pollsarchive.

gabber on vacation

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

CINDY DICKMYER

Susan Warchola and her friends decided to take The Gabber Newspaper to Norderney, Germany.

Disney Party, French Fries, and Full Moon Yoga

Thursday, April 18Sunday, April 21

Nature Pix Exhibition Enter the captivating world of technology and art with Nature Pix by artist and designer Mikhail Mansion. Creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 727-582-2172, creativepinellas.org.

Thursday, April 18

South Pasadena Yoga Here’s a chance for beginners to try yoga with veteran instructor Barbara Moeller. Learn the healing benefits of yoga through breathing techniques, poses, meditation, and deep relaxation. Bring a chair or a yoga mat. South Pasadena City Hall, 7047 Sunset Dr. S., South Pasadena. 9:30 a.m. 727-347-4171.

A Splash of Color Screening Watch a screening of  A Splash of Color: Getting Black in the Water. This Tampa Bay film is about Black water advocacy. Hear more from water advocates, and the film’s director and filmmakers at the post-screening panel.  Center for Health Equity, 2333 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. 727-865-4650, meetatthecenter.org.

Friday, April 19

Spring for the Arts Celebrate equality through art with Creative Clay’s Spring for the Arts. The Iconic Landmarks Lost exhibit showcases artwork inspired by local landmarks of the past. Also enjoy food from Island Flavors and Tings, live painting, live music and theater performances, and a silent auction. Nova 535, 535 Dr M.L.K. Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg. 6-9 p.m. $125. 727-825-0515, creativeclay.org.

Florida Food History

Learn about the history of Florida dining at Gulfport Arts and Heritage’s Weeds and Seeds lecture. Listen to Rachael Kangas, West Central & Central Re-

gion Director of the Florida Public Archaeology Network, talk about archeological research on how southwest Floridians ate 2,000 years ago.  Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. 727201-8687, gulfporthistoricalsociety. wildapricot.org.

Saturday, April 20

Charity Golf Tournament Make a team for this charity golf tournament. This four-person scramble gives teams a golf cart, lunch, and swag. Winners receive prizes. All proceeds benefit the Holiday Isles Elks Lodge #1912 general funds and charities.  Mainlands Golf Course, 9445 Mainlands Blvd. W., Pinellas Park. 7 a.m. $75 per person. 727393-1545, holidayisleselks1912.org.

Salty Sands Run Lace up for the Salty Sands Run. Run along the beach in the 5K, 10K, and 1-mile races. All proceeds benefit the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg’s Rotary Gives Backpacks program.  North Beach at Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. 7 a.m. $2555. 727-822-3277, sprotary.org.

Free Trees in Gulfport

The City of Gulfport has free trees for residents to take home. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to pick up a tree they can plant in their yards. Residents must provide a proof of residency. Gulfport Street Neighborhood Center, 1617 49th St. S., Gulfport. 9-11 a.m. 727-893-1092, mygulfport.us.

Taste of IRB

Spend your Saturday surrounded by great food, music, and fun at Taste of IRB. Enjoy food from restaurants in the area with various drink options. Bring chairs or blankets to watch live entertainment with friends.  Chic-A-Si Park, Fourth Avenue North & Second Street, Indian Rocks Beach. 3-9 p.m. 727-595-4575, beachwelcomecenter.com.

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

French Fry Fest Munch on the best fries in Pinellas at the St. Pete French Fry and Craft Beer Festival. Enjoy loads of fried food options and craft beers from Tampa Bay food trucks and vendors. Jam out to music from DJ Backbone.  Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Dr. SE, St. Petersburg. 5 p.m. 727-893-7441, gulftobayfta. org.

CASA’s Nautical Nights Help end domestic violence with CASA’s largest spring fundraiser. Dress in your best nautical attire for CASA’s Nautical Nights Gala. Enjoy live music, live and silent auctions, a surf simulator, exotic birds, and a yacht rock after party. The Hilton Carillon, 950 Lake Carillon Dr., St. Petersburg. 6-10 p.m. $250. 727-895-4912, casapinellas.org.

Disney Throwback Party “T” as in Troy? No. “T” is for traveling back in time at the Be Our Guest dance party! We’re breaking free from the adult world. Heal your inner child with these Disney throwbacks of the ‘90s and 2000s. Recreate the Cheetah Girls with your friends or live a double life as Hannah Montana. Dance your heart out to your childhood favorites. This is an 18+ event. Jannus Live, 200 First Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. $18. 727-565-0550, jannuslive.com.

Sunday, April 21

St. Pete’s Sunday Market Spend your afternoon shopping at the St. Pete Sunday Market. Explore some of the coolest small businesses selling secondhand items, handcrafted pieces, baked goods, and art. Enjoy live music while you shop and watch

Tampa Bay artists live paint.  Warehouse Arts District Association, 515 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 12-4 p.m. stpeteissupercool.com.

Monday, April 22

Beach Cleanup Join Caddy’s for an Earth Day sunset beach cleanup. Bring a cleaner and more sustainable future to Florida beaches. Volunteers receive cleaning materials, safety gears, free food, T-shirts, and a chance to win fun prizes.  Caddy’s Madeira Beach, 14080 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach. 6-8 p.m. 727-3087888, waterwarrioralliance.org.

Tuesday, April 23

Brown v. Board of Education Commemorate the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. Learn about the history and continuing impact of this landmark decision to integrate schools in Florida as well as the rest of the U.S. Center for Health Equity, 2333 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. 727-865-4650, meetatthecenter.org.

Full Moon Beach Yoga Experience an evening of self-care, beach yoga, and reflective journaling under the moonlight with BlissFit Yoga St. Pete. Take in the healing powers of the full moon as you stretch with slow-flow vinyasa. Bring a yoga mat or blanket, water, and snacks. Upham Beach, 6850 Beach Plaza, St. Pete Beach. 7 p.m. $15. blissasana. com.

Wednesday, April 24

Mamma Mia! Watch the musical story of Sophie’s plan for a perfect wedding. This includes her dad giving her away, except she doesn’t know who her dad is. With a mother who doesn’t talk about her past relationship, Sophie takes matters into her own hands. She discovers three possible fathers: Sam, Bill, and Harry. See how her wedding unfolds at Mamma Mia! St. Pete College Arts Auditorium, 2465 Drew St., Clearwater. Weds., 7 p.m.; Thurs., 7 p.m.; Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. $15. 727341-4772, gofan.co.

Lisa Pence

pets

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

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

6:30 p.m. at Habana Cafe

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

April 10

Gator Country (Rebecca Renner)

May 8

Sunshine State: Essays (Sarah Gerrard)

June 12

The Kingdom of Sand (Andrew Holleran)

July 10

Florida Woman (Deb Rogers)

Cinza Mr. Cinza is an 11-year-old, calm, and chill cat. He is a gentleman and gets along with other cats.

Squire This 8-month-old pup is Squire. He is still learning basic manners. He hopes to find someone patient and determined to learn new skills with him.

Luna Luna is a playful and lovable girl. She is a 1-year-old, domestic shorthair who is excited to meet everyone.

Bo This goofball is Bo. He is a 2-year-old, 70-pound, rottweiler. Bo loves walks and people. You must own your home to adopt Bo.

worship

17th St. & 29th Ave N

St. Petersburg 345-7777

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com

JewishHeritage.net

Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island

10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

Sunday Service

10am with Holy Communion 727-360-5739

paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

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

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION

330 85th Avenue

• St. Pete Beach

Reverend Omar Reyes

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

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

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

obituaries

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

Affiliated with St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

5441 9 th Ave N. • St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Sunday Services 10AM

Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

Carmen Maria Garcia

Carmen Maria Garcia passed away peacefully on April 2, 2024 in Gulfport. She was born in Bronx, NY and relocated to St. Petersburg after she graduated from nursing school. She was a Labor and Delivery RN for 28 years.

Carmen is preceded in death by her parents, John and Francisca Garcia and her brother, John J. Garcia. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Sara Garcia and her niece, Sherri Hohenhouse.

Carmen was a bright light, loved by all who knew her. She loved her community of Gulfport, loved to travel and enjoyed photography.

Remember your loved ones forever with us.

• Free obituaries available; prices range from $75-$600

• Obituary on Legacy included

ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR NEXT THURSDAY’S ISSUE IS FRIDAY BY 5 p.m.

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Accounting

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING

Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonpro ts. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certi ed ProAdvisor. 10+ years experience. Call/text to 727-248-0714 or email to nspence@clearnumbers.biz

Caregivers

CARING LOVING CAREGIVER

Have experience in alzheimer’s, dementia, hoyer lifts. Do transportation, cooking, cleaning, assist in daily activities, shopping, errands. Work 4, 8, or 12 hour shifts. Contact Qulynnitha Angel Care at 727-755-1196.

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

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

HANDS N HEART IN HOME CARE LLC

Compassionate care to meet all your needs, to personalized attention and support. Services: meal prep, shower, bath, short errands, medication reminder, light housekeeping. Call today 727-481-4722 or 727-623-2410.

C.J.’S HOUSE

Hi, I’m eager to meet you. I have all kinds of services. From housekeeping and all errands, pet services, love them! Give me a jingle 813-370-5111. Let me help you make your life easier

HOUSE CLEANING BY SHAWNA & TARA

Reliable, efficient, excellent references.

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

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

Over 30 years experience. Residential & commercial, new or remodel work, service upgrades, lightning arrestors, fans and lighting installed. State license #ER0007653.

BREEZE ELECTRIC INC - COMMERCIALRESIDENTIALSERVICE

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

other devices. Plumbing: faucets, valves, and other fixtures. Door locks and cabinet hardware. Flips to problem solving and rental punch lists. References upon request. David: 727-851-7548.

HANDYMAN, SEMI-RETIRED Ceiling fans, grab bars, lights, blinds, and all types of small interior repairs. Honest & reliable. Call Giovanni (John) at 727-410-2201.

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

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

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

DARCY ROOFING LLC

Residential/Commercial. All roofing typesT.P.O., tapered systems, shingle, metal, tile, & flat roofs. Great prices, best warranties. Our general contracting division also does kitchens, baths, additions, new construction, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727-410-7323.

JEFF’S FENCE & REPAIR

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

KEITH THE ROOFER

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

MASSEY ROOFING SERVICES

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

THE TRASH QUEEN: OVERWHELMED WITH THE MESS?

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

Lawn & Landscape IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

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

GOOD RIDDANCE LANDSCAPING: 727-265-6454

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

Miscellaneous Service

NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber Newspaper now provides Notary Services. In office only at 2908B Beach Blvd S. in Gulfport. Our Notary Public is not an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice. DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP MEETS WEEKLY 7 TO 8:30 PM Tuesday ~ Allendale Church: 3803 Haines Rd. Thursday ~ Life Enrichment Center, Classroom 3C Pasadena Church: 227 70th St. S. Free, no registration. Call: 727 4101569 or Google search: DBSTampabay.org

DEATH DOULA Offering vigil, respite, facilitating discussion. Please call to connect: Nancy, MA, Masters in Psych. 727-5648499

WEIGHT LOSS COACH FREE HALF-HOUR CONSULTATION

Deals with nutritional information, feelings, social pressures, understanding food labels and food marketing. Please call or text 917-836-0654.

Moving / Hauling

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION

Junk & trash removal. Low, low prices guaranteed. Daily specials. Kitchen, bath, shed, fencing, etc. Demolition. Chuck: 727-831-0507.

HB HAULING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

We offer a wide array of services including hauling, junk removal, interior/exterior repairs and renovations, etc. We do it all. Our lowest price upfront. Call Kenny at 727793-5816.

JUNK REMOVALFULL SERVICE

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

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

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

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

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

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

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

A BRAND NEW EDGE ON YOUR BLADES

Sharpen chainsaws, knives, axes, saws, mower blades, etc. Drop off near Temple Beth-El area, by appointment. Call Marc: 727410-4310. Local to South Pasadena, Gulfport, South St Pete.

O’Neill’s Marina is looking for fishing enthusiasts to join our team. We have part-time positions in our bait shop. Shifts are 5am-noon and noon-8pm. The candidate needs to have a flexible schedule so an active retired person is perfect for this position!

Contact Alysia at alysia@oneillsmarina.com 727-867-2585, option 4. Or stop by to fill out an employment application. O’Neill’s Marina 6701 Sunshine Skyway Lane S., • St. Pete

Legal Notices

TITAN TECH DYNAMICS We offer innovative marketing solutions, blending AI technology with creative services to empower brands with impactful voice services, appointment setting, logo design, scriptwriting, and social media campaigns for unparalleled brand engagement and growth. www.titantechdynamics.com

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE

Alma Pitchford intends to register “LilMarauder Productions” with the Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State, pursuant to section 865.09 of the Florida Statutes and engage in business under that name in Pinellas County, Florida

Wanted

KIDNEY DONOR NEEDED

My name is Carol Stiner and I have been a resident of S. Pasadena for over 25 years. I find myself in a desperate situation needing a kidney donor. A person can live a normal life with only one kidney. The three most important criteria for my donor are Type-O blood, a BMI below 35, and non-smoker. If anyone is interested in donating a kidney please call 727-381-9311 (home) or 727-331-0987 (mobile). My insurance covers the cost of the donor’s evaluation and hospitalization. The donor will be reimbursed for travel expenses and lost wages during recovery.

Yard / Garage Sale

ESTATE SALE

Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m. - ? 4649 18th Ave. N., St. Pete. Kitchenware, dressers, dishes, lots of miscellaneous stuff. Come by, see it all.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL, PINELLAS COUNTY

Home and business property monitoring, maintenance, and security throughout the year/seasonally/weekly/as needed. Lawn and yard care including mowing, weeding, clean-ups, storm monitoring. Reliable 50year family business with local references, licensed and insured. Trash Queen Enterprises, Inc., 845-866-3867

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & LEASING SERVICES

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

Lydia 727-557-8922.

55+ POOL CONDO FOR RENT 2bd/1ba, Patriot Square. Gated, pool, clubhouse, Florida room. Private patio, kitchen, in-condo laundry. 55+ community. Contact Lou: 727429-7896.

CONDO FOR RENT AT TOWNSHORES GULFPORT

55+; available now. 2bed/2bath, $1,900 per month, $1,900 deposit, $100 non-refundable application fee. Unfurnished. Minimum 6-month lease. Call Michaelle at 727-6426635.

1 bedroom condo in French Quarter Condos - a “gated” community w/pool & laundry on site. Huge walk-in, newer kitchen, offstreet assigned parking. Tropically landscaped grounds. Location is 63rd St. & 1st Ave S. $1,350/month. Call owner/Realtor at 727-513-7828. For photos TEXT 6266 to 727-591-3234.

Gulfport Real Estate Sales

Find More Home Sales at thegabber.com.

Here’s what homes sold in Gulfport April 4-10.

5814 17th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This three-bed, one-bath home, built in 1954, has 1,763 square feet. It listed for $475,000 and sold for $465,000.

2026 55th St. S. (Tangerine)

This three-bed, two-bath home, built in 1949, has 1,210 square feet. It listed for $475,000 and sold for $445,000.

1608 Hull St. S. (Stetson)

This two-bed, one-bath home, built in 1951, has 992 square feet. It listed for $435,300 and sold for $460,000.

6150 Gulfport Blvd. S., #416 (Stetson)

This two-bed, two-bath home, built in 1973, has 1,160 square feet. It listed and sold for $398,000.

5610 Newton Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bed, one-bath home, built in 1952, has 840 square feet. It listed and sold for $295,000.

5135 12th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bed, one-bath home, built in 1952, has 576 square feet. It listed for $254,900 and sold for $250,000.