The Gabber: April 20, 2023

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

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Advertising Director

Barry Loper barry@thegabber.com

Creative Director

Joey Neill joey@thegabber.com

News & Politics

Monroe Roark monroe@thegabber.com

Features & Events

Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com

Reporters

Mike Sunnucks, Crime

Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment

Jon Kile, Columnist

Lisa Leveroni, Beaches

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

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Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper

Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

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

voices

The Grandfather Oak

Around the corner from my residence is a massive majestic live oak tree. It is three lots down, on 52nd Street South, from the corner of 28th Avenue South and 52nd Street South. When I first moved to town, this tree stood out as what looks to be an historic ancient ancestor. It is certainly one of the biggest I’ve seen among the grove of oaks in my neighborhood. I call him The Grandfather. He stands alone. When I first made his acquaintance, I was awed by his size, beauty and the energy he emanated. I leaned up against his massive trunk with my body, breathing it all in. With the back of my body supported by him, I stood there, listening to the silence, in the dark. I looked up through his limbs, curving and extending in every direction, revealing  a moonlit sky. Then turning, I leaned the entire front of my body against him. It felt so comforting, grounding and rejuvenating!

This may not be something you want to share with a realtor/developer, whose sign appeared recently on the lot where this tree lives. “One of those ridiculous hippie ‘tree huggers’!” they might say sarcastically, and with disdain. When I first saw the sign, my heart started racing! Since this tree occupies the very center of the lot, there is no room to build around it. In the eyes of a developer, it’s merely an obstacle to whatever they plan on building there, and its removal expedited! (murdered!) This tree must be protected at all costs. If that means strapping myself to the tree the day the tree cutters come at it with a saw, I will, and I won’t be moved. They will have to saw right through me. That being said, I am not an aggressive or violent person by nature, but there are exceptions. I am a licensed  clinical social worker in the state of Florida, as well as in New York state for over 35 years. During my career I have protected, and defended in court, abused and at-risk children. I have also stood as a protector of animals, as well as dolphins and whales. I worked for Greenpeace in my younger days in

REMEMBER: Today is the first day of the rest of your life!

Santa Barbara, California. So I mean business! Please, everyone, take a stand for this tree’s life!

–Alexandra Morgan Geiger

Correction About Statements Regarding BCYC

I’m concerned that The Gabber Newspaper publishes opinion pieces that are not fact checked to be close to the truth, which creates misinformation to its readership. To start with, I’m a Gulfport resident first, but also a longtime member of the Boca Ciega Yacht Club. I have been its Commodore and have held many positions since joining in 2008. I’m the club’s historian and have written many factual pieces of our long history in Gulfport since 1965. Regarding Mr. Kanter and Ms. Mamawala claims in their April 13 opinion piece:

1. Safely accessible bathrooms for all are a basic requirement. Mr. Kanter’s boat is in the municipal marina, which has bathrooms available to all slip renters. It is certainly much less of a walk than 1.5 miles. The gates to the slips are locked and are opposite the main marina office bathrooms, so that is why it’s a short walk around the fence line to the marina bathrooms.

2. Dinghy storage and boat ramp.

The City charges storage for any personal watercraft including kayaks, canoes, and dingy’s. All storage fees go directly to the City of Gulfport. The City charges $7 to use their boat ramp.

3. Shared space for sailing enthusiasts. There are other clubs in the marina district that are private. I have been to the Lions Club’s breakfast, which is very nice, but they are a private organization. I have visited friends at Gulfport Yacht Club west of the Lions Club, but they are private also. As with many things in life you have to join the organization before you can benefit from what it offers.

The writers state that BCYC was “not interested” in updating its articles of incorporation, yet in fact, BCYC spent the bulk of 2019 doing exactly that, and if they had chosen to be more involved with the club, they would have known that. They joined BCYC in March 2019, after BCYC began its efforts to update their AOIs. The amended AOI’s were sent to Tallahassee for approval by the state in October 2019, the same month that the writers resigned their membership at BCYC. The State of Florida accepted the Amended AOIs on December 27, 2019. —Capt. Richard “Sandbar” Walters

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.

Gulfport Special Events Trolley Back in Service Service to

WRD Events from a Dozen Parking Locations

By Monroe Roark

The Looper is back in town.

CITYOFGULFPORT

The Gulfport special events trolley offers people free transportation from their parked cars in various parts of town to events in the Waterfront Redevelopment District at least twice a month, depending on the schedule. It began operating again last December after a lengthy hiatus.

The previous large-scale events trolley was a vehicle leased from the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, according to Justin Shea, Gulfport’s cultural facilities and events coordinator. That vehicle required a driver with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and other specifications.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused wide-scale facility closures and event cancellations. Because of that, the city employee qualified to drive the trolley moved out of the area.

“Moving forward, we searched through the job applicants for a CDL-qualified driver. We did not have any good candidates to drive the trolley,” said Shea. “For almost a year we went without a trolley for art walks and large-scale special events.”

City officials decided to adorn a smaller GEMS vehicle with the same outer design as the large-scale trolley. A regular licensed driver can operate this vehicle.

“It gave us more flexibility to program a driver to service the events,” said Shea.

The regular schedule calls for service from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. every first Friday for the Art & Gallery Walk and every third Saturday for the IndieFaire. The city’s website lists other events throughout the year that include Looper service: Fine Arts Festival at Veterans Park; Get Rescued; Pink Flamingo Home & Garden Tour; Fun in the Sun Day at the Recreation Center; Gulfport PRIDE; 4th of July Independence Day Celebration; and GeckoFest.

The regular route contains a dozen stops and drop-off points. Those include Gulfport Beach, the Cather-

ine Hickman Theater, and the Historic Gulfport Casino Ballroom. Other stops with offsite parking are located all around Gulfport.

“What we are trying to do is build back the awareness that the Looper is servicing the off-site parking locations in the city

during these events, and will shuttle in people from these locations to the event area,” said Shea. “I think it will take a good year to get people talking about it again.”

The city operates the shuttle and it is free to riders. As you see the vehicle approaching, just wave to the driver to indicate that you would like to board. When you are ready to get off, just let the driver know where along the route you want to be dropped off.

“We stop at the off-site parking locations and wait 5-10 minutes with the door open,” said Shea. “Also, as we drive, if someone hails the driver, we stop at the next safe location and bring them into the event.”

Visit mygulfport.us/trolley for more information and a route map.

“We want people to utilize the service,” said Shea. “We want to bring you to the event, and we want you to enjoy the experience.”

Carrico Set to Become Gulfport’s New City Clerk Assumes New Duties in

By Monroe Roark

Early May

Gulfport’s new city clerk will take office in less than three weeks.

Theresa Carrico starts working in that role May 9. Gulfport City Council approved her appointment at its March 21 regular meeting. The city appointed her deputy city clerk last summer.

Lesley DeMuth announced at the March 7 council meeting that she would retire May 8. She served two 14-year stints in the position, from 1984 to 1998 and from 2009 to the present.

DeMuth notified the council 60 days notice as required in her contract, and that helped make the transition a smooth one. Council agreed on the night of DeMuth’s retirement announcement that Carrico should succeed her. From there, City Attorney Andrew Salzman worked with Carrico to finalize her employment agreement.

According to a city staff report, Gulfport will pay Carrico an annual base salary of $75,956. Council can adjust that total at its discretion. The city will pay her two months’ severance pay should the council decide to terminate her.

The Gulfport charter created the position of city clerk. The person in that role works directly for and at the pleasure of the City Council.

When DeMuth announced her retirement, she recommended Council tap Carrico as her successor, and that the city advertise for someone to fill the deputy clerk position.

She told the council how Carrico has been continuing her education since the first joined the clerk’s office, attending relevant conferences and taking classes to lead up to the certifications that will ultimately be required for whoever assumes DeMuth’s role on a permanent basis, which DeMuth said typically takes about three years from the first day on the job.

Carrico has worked a great deal with the Planning and Zoning Board, the Board of Adjustment, and the Site Plan Review Committee in addition to the City Council. DeMuth also praised Carrico’s “excellent” customer service skills.

Mayor Sam Henderson said he appreciates time Carrico has already been working for the city.

“There is a certain amount of toughness you have to have to do that job, so I think she has that as well,” Henderson said. “Her experience with the city is what encourages me. I’d very much like to go with your recommendation.”

City Manager Jim O’Reilly introduced Carrico at the March 21 meeting to applause from council members, all of whom stated that they looked forward to working with her.

“I am happy to be given this opportunity,” said Carrico.

Gulfport City Council promoted Theresa Carrico from deputy clerk to city clerk, effective May 9, when current clerk, Lesley DeMuth, retires.

MONROE ROARK

Drone Fireworks and Building Moratoriums News from the St. Pete Beach Commission Meeting

By Lisa Leveroni

At the most recent city commission meeting, the new mayor of St. Pete Beach clearly stated that his previous motion for a moratorium on large-scale building won’t go away anytime soon. Mayor Adrian Petrila announced early on in the April 11 meeting he would make the motion again sometime after the city commission and planning board workshop at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25. Following that workshop discussion, St. Pete Beach will hold a city commission meeting at 6 p.m.

Fireworks or Drones?

Anyone who wants to weigh in on whether St. Pete Beach should have fireworks or a drone show this coming July 4 can have a say at that 6 p.m. commission meeting. Those who wish to speak should register online at stpetebeach.org before the meeting.

St. Pete Beach’s Financial Outlook

The Finance Director and Assistant City Manager, Vincent Tenaglia, presented the finance report and annual audit from  James Moore and Company. The city’s revenue has increased $12.3 million, with a net in-

crease of 13.1%. Commissioner Mark Grill congratulated the group for winning the Government Finance Officers Association Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Grill also mentioned that residents could learn more about the city’s past 10 years of its finances in the back end of the report.

Citizen Concerns

One resident expressed concern over a particular insurance company’s practice of inflating property values to increase premiums on

residents. He was referred to state officials and representative Linda Chaney to help resolve this issue.

“I’ll reach out to her as well,” Mayor Petrila said.

A resident of Three Palms Point indicated concern for safety at the intersection of 64th Avenue and Gulf Boulevard. That intersection has no stoplight, although beachgoers and residents frequently cross the main street.

Another safety issue – perhaps the most contentious discussion of the evening – involved the creation of a continuous sidewalk from 75th Avenue to 71st Avenue along Sunset Way and turning onto Beach Plaza where Upham Beach boardwalks begin. Many will recognize this as the walk from Upham Beach to the restaurants of Corey Avenue and beyond (including Woody’s, Willy’s, and The Toasted Monkey). The commission voted in favor of the project, with only Petrila dissenting.

The commission applauded FreeBee rides for its success. The Commission also acknowledged the service may not have enough vehicles to accommodate riders at certain times. Commissioner Grill suggested the commission continue the discussion, pending an evaluation and potential improvements.

At the recent St. Pete Beach Commission meeting, the new mayor said he intends to pursue a development moratorium.

ST. PETE BEACH

State of the Beaches April 27 Area Mayors Gather for Town Hall Meeting

By Monroe Roark

Local officials have scheduled a “State of the Beaches” mayors’ town hall for Thursday, April 27, 5-6:30 p.m. at Treasure Island City Hall, 120 108th Avenue.

The Treasure Island & Madeira Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts

Gulfport gathers

mayors from across the county. Those elected officials will have the opportunity to share what is happening in their respective cities and how each city is affected by the current legislative session.

The panel is expected to include:

Joanne “Cookie” Kennedy, Indian Rocks Beach

David Will, Redington Beach

William “Bill” Queen, North Redington Beach

MaryBeth Henderson, Redington Shores

James “Jim” Rostek, Madeira Beach

Tyler Payne, Treasure Island

Sam Henderson, Gulfport

the event, along with St. Petersburg College Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions.

According to chamber officials, former Bay News 9 anchor Al Ruechel will moderate a conversation about the state of the beaches with

A reception will follow the “state of the beaches” April 27 session. Those in attendance can meet and greet the mayors. Organizers encourage all beach businesses and residents to attend.

For more information, contact the institute (isps.spcollege.edu, 727-394-6942) or the chamber (timbchamber.org, 727-360-4121, events@timbchamber.org).

Treasure Island City Hall will host the State of the Beaches town hall.

MONROE ROARK

Looking Ahead in Gulfport Citizens Get Hands-On During Town Hall Meeting

By Monroe Roark

What will Gulfport look like in seven years?

That is the question addressed April 10 by close to 100 people. They gathered in the Casino for “Gulfport on the Edge: Community Conversations,” sponsored by Gulfport City Council member April Thanos (Ward I).

“This is a town hall meeting,” said event facilitator Ingrid Bredenberg at the start of the evening. “But it’s a town hall like you’ve never been to.”

It marked the third and final installment in a series of meetings. The intent was to bring city residents together for an “inclusive, interesting, and safe conversation,” as Bredenberg put it, about their perception of what they would like Gulfport to become.

Roughly half the crowd acknowledged that they had attended one of the previous meetings in November and January. The stated objectives of those gatherings were to find common ground and identify trends and forces impacting the region.

About two dozen volunteers worked behind the scenes over the past few months to make these town hall meetings happen, Bredenberg said. The audience for this most recent meeting included residents (about a dozen who have lived in Gulfport 25 years or longer), workers, and business owners with ties to the city.

The audience was scattered across the casino floor at about 15 different circular tables, each one having an appointed table leader. This was by design as part of the organizers’ mission to help people make connections and increase their awareness and involvement in key Gulfport issues. Each table’s occupants took a few minutes for personal greetings and an informal chat before diving into a series of assignments.

Bredenberg led the audience in an exercise that allowed them to focus on what Gulfport will look like in 2030. She encouraged everyone to

imagine driving into the city at that time and consider what they might see as they tour the area from Gulfport Boulevard to the waterfront and elsewhere.

From those mental observations, each person wrote down thoughts and shared them in story form with their tablemates. From that, each table – and many who crossed to other tables – put together storyboards. These made their ideas come to life visually, with the help of supplies and materials furnished by the meeting’s organizers.

Participants presented their completed storyboards to the audience. The topics ranged from environmental stability and community engagement to attracting more families and increasing diversity in the city. Some presentations include details about specific

improvements to residential areas as well as parks and other amenities. This gave the participants an opportunity to publicly share their ideas with everyone else in the room.

In conclusion, Bredenberg said the entire process will hopefully foster greater involvement and will extend to others. Organizers plan to continue communicating with the community about the issues addressed at the town hall. That includes likely appearances at City Council meetings.

Thanos was impressed with the output from the participants.

“These are all very feasible things we can actually do, if everyone has a will to do it,” said Thanos. “Speak up. Let people know you like these ideas and they are important. I think we can get a lot of these done.”

One of the groups at the “Gulfport on the Edge” town hall meeting.

CAMERON HEALY

St. Petersburg Seeks Marina Proposals

RFP Deadline is July 14

By Monroe Roark

St. Petersburg wants a development partner for its city marina.

City officials recently released a request for proposals (RFP) for anyone interested in redeveloping and operating the downtown marina. Interested parties can apply before July 14.

The City wants a developer and operator with a significant amount of experience in developing and operating saltwater marinas.

“Adjacent to the St. Pete Pier, with

slips right in the heart of downtown, St. Pete’s Municipal Marina is an anchor point of the Waterfront District,” said city development administrator James Corbett. “This is just the next step in the revitalization of the marina. We look forward to finding a partner that sees the potential of this landmark in our community.”

The City built the central yacht basin docks along the downtown waterfront in 1963 and four of the five south yacht basin docks in 1977.

Officials said the facilities have been well maintained over the years. Time and exposure to the aggressive saltwater environment have taken their tolls, though. Marina infrastructure has reached the end of its service life.

The City has completed a Marina Master Plan which includes a framework for the redevelopment of the Municipal Marina.

Find details about the marina and the RFP at stpete.org/marina.

St. Petersburg Municipal Marina.

MONROE ROARK

911: What’s Your Emergency? The Mystery of Lost 911 Calls in Pinellas

By Mike Sunnucks

Jim Fogarty wants to solve a mystery.

Fogarty works as the director of public safety and emergency services in Pinellas. He oversees the county’s busy 911 emergency communications system — which receives more than 900,000 calls annually.

But Fogarty said an estimated 12% to 15% of emergency calls coming into Pinellas’ 911 system end up getting dropped or never make it to an emergency operator.

“It’s a big issue,” said Fogarty, an emergency communications veteran with professional stints in Clearwater, Long Island,  and King County, Washington before landing his Pinellas County job in 2017.

Dropped and abandoned 911 calls challenge emergency agencies across Florida – and the U.S.  While some of the abandoned calls never make it to dispatch centers, other calls— whether they are accidental or might stem from old phones or telecom system issues — require callbacks.

That takes time and resources.

Researching Dropped 911 Calls

Fogarty said his agency may partner with the University of South Florida to research abandoned and dropped 911 calls — including where they come from, and the role of emergency call features on old cell phones and smartphones that might be in active use.

“We are doing some formal research,” Fogarty told The Gabber Newspaper. He said the research will look for trends with dropped 911 calls among carriers, geography, certain towers, and routing systems. “That’s the type of calls we are trying to understand.”

Fogarty said the county  hopes to see progress on that first-of-its-kind research partnership with USF this year. He gets calls from out-of-state agencies about the dropped call issue and research aspirations, also, he said.

“It’s never been researched before,” he said.

Working with Pinellas Agencies

Emergency 911 calls are centralized locally with emergency calls routed to Pinellas County’s Emergency Operations Center near Ulmerton Road and Seminole Boulevard. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and SunStar Emergency Medical Services ambulance service also have dispatch operations at the same center.

“That’s not true in most counties,” said Fogarty of the centralized system.

St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Pinellas Park have secondary emergency operations centers that also serve as dispatches within their jurisdictions.

The municipal operations also take non-emergency requests for police and other public safety assistance.

St. Pete, for example, handled

more than 486,000 calls at its communications center in 2022 and 2021. It handled more than 490,000 calls in 2020, according to Yolanda Fernandez,  community awareness division manager for the St. Petersburg Police Department.

“The SPPD Communications Division manages the 911 law enforcement calls that are within St. Petersburg once they are screened and routed by the regional center,” Fernandez said. “All non-emergency requests for law enforcement services in St. Petersburg are directly answered and processed by SPPD Emergency Communications Division personnel. Certain mental health related calls are dispatched to the CALL team, comprised of mental health professionals ensuring the most appropriate resource is assigned to each incident.”

911 Calls and Gulfport Dispatch

While a number of smaller cities in the county have outsourced law en-

Pinellas County gets almost a million calls a year – but some get dropped, and Jim Forgarty wants to know why?

PINELLAS COUNTY

forcement operations to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Gulfport maintains its own police and fire departments.

Still, 911 calls in Gulfport go through the county.

“We outsourced communications about 10 years ago. There are obviously ups and downs in sharing a radio channel with other local agencies, but it is frankly the trend in our business,” said Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent.

Pinellas County wants to centralize its dispatch and communications systems.

“It will be a seamless application across the region’s agencies,” Fogarty said.

“May 2024 is when that is supposed to be turned on. We have a very narrow window to turn that on,” Fogarty said, referring to the start of the 2024 hurricane season in June.

Vincent said a “single dispatch application” will help GPD.

“The biggest benefit is knowing what is going on, in the moment, in the neighboring jurisdictions. Responses are better coordinated, and information is shared every day that might not be otherwise,” Vincent said.

The meshing of municipal systems and getting local residents accustomed to central operations that ask standardized questions also takes time, the Gulfport chief said.

“The biggest perceived down side is the lack of familiarity with our town on the part of the communications staff. Unfortunately, our residents are comparing what we have now to what we had 10 years ago, and that is not a fair comparison,” Vincent said. “The biggest complaint I get is about the number and type of questions the call-takers ask, and these questions make it seem like they know little or nothing about Gulfport.”

Not necessarily.

“They follow an industry-standardized script for every call,” Vincent said.

Pinellas 911: Help Wanted

Pinellas County’s 911 command center has a $300 million budget. It can staff up to 120 emergency “tele-communicators”, according to Fogarty.

He currently has 92 or 93 frontline emergency operators on staff, with between 20 and 25 openings.

The stressful job requires new tele-communicators to go through weeks of paid training.

“It takes weeks and weeks to get proficient,” Fogarty said.

That includes four to eight weeks of classroom training and, more time working with experienced operators. The whole training pro-

cess can take 12 to 14 weeks.

“A good tele-communicator could be handling 12 to 15 calls an hour,” Fogarty said, adding that calls can spike significantly during hurricanes and tropical storms.

Fogarty has seen 911 operators and dispatchers relocate to Florida for jobs from places such as New York. Others transition into the profession from other careers, including health care, Fogarty said.

Command center employees work various daily and weekly schedules, including 10- and 12hour shifts, he said. Pay starts at $20 per hour for training; operators can make between $40,000 and $50,000 per year with night, weekend and holiday shifts, as well as annual step increases. That can bring the salary to as much as $67,000 annually, Fogarty said.

The turnover proves challenging for a stressful job. Pinellas and national labor markets have worker shortages after the public health crisis, economic shutdowns, and job losses that began with the pandemic.

“It’s a really good career, but it is a stressful career,” Fogarty said. “You are talking to people in their worst moments. But it’s meaningful work. You have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.”

“You have the opportunity to make a di erence in people’s lives.”

Look Kids: Big Ben, Parliament A European Vacation with Kids? Sure, Why Not?

By Jon Kile

Having spent months on the road with our kids in an RV, we’re seasoned in the art of family travel. But until recently we’d never dared cross an ocean with them. We meticulously planned a 10-day trip. Our flight was delayed 90 minutes. A butterfly flaps its wings and suddenly we are not going to make our train from London to Paris. Our kids got to see their parents react to a pressure cooker of travel woes. My wife, a pro tour planner, whipped out her laptop like a hacker in a spy movie, rebooking hotels, museum tickets, and the rental car.

Stranded in London, we all marveled at Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, (look kids, Big Ben! Parliament!). For me, the most foreign thing was their left-sided streets. I know, I’m a rube, but it was like I’d suffered a blow to the head and everything looked backwards. I could barely cross the street without getting hit by cars coming from the wrong side. People even walk on the wrong side of the sidewalk.

After two days living in a mirror, we finally caught our train to Paris and rented a car to go explore Normandy. The roads were oriented correctly, but my college French classes did not translate their road signs. I decided that if the meaning wasn’t obvious, it must not be tres importánt!

Our kids will never appreciate the baptism by fire of the first hour of our drive, when we traveled maybe 1.2 kilometers. We emerged from a parking garage seven stories deep in the belly of Paris. We found a rainy traffic jam outside the Gare du Nord, where the street patterns result from a thousand years of pre-auto-

mobile development, followed by a “renovation” (their word) in the mid 1800s. Fun fact: Paris traffic signals are merely decorative. Having endured multiple cycles of green and red lights, everyone decided it was now their turn. Each intersection looked like my son’s box of Matchbox cars.

Despite the GPS’s advice to abandon the car in the street and report it stolen to Hertz, I called upon seven years of daily meditation and calmly threaded our way out. My heart rate never went above 72. I’m Jason Bourne in traffic.

We spent four blissful days in Normandy. We know France’s reputation of hostility toward tourists, but Normandy’s economy depends on American tourists. I bet deep down they’re tired of celebrating American and British glory, but we felt embraced. Vast empty parking areas and countless gift shops foreshadowed the invasion of tourists each June. Our son explored

wrecked German bunkers wearing his army surplus jacket, and our daughter donned a pink beret and reveled in the atmosphere of one quaint French village after another. They were a modern day Rusty and Audrey Griswold.

Lest you think the French are getting soft, we returned to Paris and witnessed a bit of good old-fashioned strike action. A garbage strike left six weeks of trash piled two meters high on every sidewalk. Outside the Louvre, we saw a rowdy demonstration that involved a topless woman and a nearly naked man performing some kind of protest dance. Our son turned crimson at the sight of this sidewalk Moulin Rouge.

Weary after two whirlwind days trekking across Paris, we grew complacent. We ducked into a shop where bulk candy sits in piles. The candy’s price was a multiple of a currency and system of weights and measures, both foreign to us. Let’s just say we could all retire at 50 selling bulk gummy bears for €42 per kilo.

By the time we returned to London for our flight, we weren’t surprised to find the British joining the rail strike fun. We threw caution to London’s chilly wind, caught a late show in the West End, and managed to find one of the only running trains to the airport.

Take a European vacation with kids? Sure. Here’s what the Kile family encountered while across the pond.

JON

Honorary Pet Graduates of 2023

Eckerd College Hosts Annual

By Cameron Healy

Pet Graduation

On April 11, Eckerd College held its 11th annual Pet Graduation.

The companions of 2023 seniors “graduated” by receiving an official Eckerd College honorary graduate certificate. The college celebrated these furry, scaly, and feathered friends for supporting their owners.

The college provided treats for humans and animals. An array of dog treats, bird food, and grass sat in metal bowls on a table.

Many students arrived with their pets already dressed for the occasion. Senior Leyla Dorph-Lowrie created a colorful, paper cap  for her dog Watson. Senior Chloe Carter put Waffle, a bearded dragon, in a polka dot dress with a pink ribbon bow.

Meows and giggles filled Eckerd College’s Fox Hall as pets tried their best to sit still with their owners throughout the ceremony.

Eckerd honored virtually and in-person “34 dogs, 15 cats, three guinea pigs, three bearded dragons, two rats, two snakes, two tortoises, two rabbits, two leopard geckos, two turtles, a chinchilla, a crested gecko, a chameleon, a gecko, a frog and a fish.”

As students and their honorary companions received pet diplomas, groups of friends and supporters stood at the edge of the stage cheering them on.

The celebration didn’t stop there. After calling all the graduating pets across the stage, the class of 2023 pets received graduation caps to wear for a group photo.

Senior Ace Muccio’s pet graduate Athena received an honorary certificate.

CAMERON HEALY Waffle, the bearded dragon and her owner Chloe Carter.

CAMERON HEALY

Watson in her handmade graduation cap with her human Leila Dorph-Lowrie.

CAMERON HEALY

CAMERON HEALY

What’s the Plan?

The Future of a Now-Vacant Lot on Shore Boulevard

Question: I have never seen anything in The Gabber Newspaper about the piece of prime waterfront real estate next to O’Maddy’s that has been an eyesore since I moved to Gulfport seven years ago.  I was hopeful when I saw that the former multi-family property on the 5400 block had sold in August of 2022. But there are still no signs of development. Can you write a story about what is going on with that property? Is it zoned for commercial use, or will housing be coming back? –Linda

Maney

Answer: We asked the City of Gulfport’s principal planner, Mike Taylor, about these apartments.

“The building permit application has expired,” Taylor told The Gabber Newspaper. “Our office has not received any new or revised proposals for this property.”

The zoning for Gulfport’s vacant waterfront lot on Shore Boulevard, part of the Waterfront Redevelopment District, allows the following uses: Single-family homes and duplexes; townhomes; multi-family dwellings; transient accommodations; restaurant (but no drive-throughs); taverns (if they’re an accessory to transient accommodation only); city facilities, or a private parking lot.

Your City Questions, Answered

Do you have a question about something in your community? Send it to The Gabber, and we’ll do our best to get you the answer. Email your questions to news@thegabber.com or drop them off at our office (2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport – right across from Stella’s). If you don’t want us to use your name in the newspaper, let us know when you submit your question. We edit the questions for clarity, syntax, and grammar, so the question you read may differ slightly from what someone submitted. The Gabber Newspaper will not alter the intent of the question.

Reality, Racism, and ‘Ragtime’ American Stage’s Park Show Still Relevant 47 Years Later

By David Warner

Artfully staged and passionately sung, American Stage in the Park’s production of Ragtime makes a good case for the lasting importance of the 1998 Tony-winning musical, an enthralling critique of what it means to dream the American dream.

Based on E.L. Doctorow’s innovative 1975 novel, the musical (with book by Terrence McNally and score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynne Ahrens) tells the stories of three fictional families in New York at the turn of the 20th century. They’re led by Coalhouse Walker, a Harlem ragtime pianist; Father, a wealthy fireworks manufacturer in New Rochelle; and Tateh, a Latvian immigrant who dreams of building a better life for his daughter. The lives of all three families intersect with famous historical figures of the time, including Henry Ford, Booker T. Washington, Harry Houdini, Emma Goldman, and the infamous beauty at the center of a high-society sexand-murder scandal, Evelyn Nesbit.

It’s an epic undertaking, with a 23-member cast. But director Erica Sutherlin’s command of the material is apparent right from the opening number. On a set brilliantly conceived as a fragmented Statue of Liberty (enhanced by Dalton Hamilton’s lighting design), the social classes are delineated by authentic period costumes and by Heather Beal’s inventive choreography as they move to the “new syncopation” of ragtime music. Later, the versatile ensemble morphs seamlessly into striking laborers, raucous baseball fans, and, most impressively, as an assembly line for the Model T.

The car itself was a democratic invention, making automobiles more available to everyone, including Coalhouse Walker. But the workers who manufacture the Model T are reduced to cogs in the machine. And, white bigots, seeing a Black man in a shiny new car, try to put him in his

place by destroying it. Coalhouse, so confident that the American dream was in his sights, begins a crusade for justice.

Sutherlin and Musical Director Latoya McCormick have assembled a strong cast. Dante Murray, a towering baritone, is Coalhouse. Billy Goldstein finds all the colors in the tender, resourceful Tateh. As Mother, who takes in Sarah and her child while Father is on an Arctic exhibition, Sarah Middough, with her clarion soprano, captures the yearnings of a woman who longs to go on her own journeys, while Larry Alexander’s Father is both enraging and endearing. Martin Powers gives a limber performance as their young son, Edgar, and Matthew Harper Stevenson is convincingly ardent as Mother’s Younger Brother, who’s obsessed with Evelyn Nesbit. Doing double duty as Henry Ford and a racist fire chief, Cody Taylor is eminently hissable.

Beth Gelman is terrific as the rabble-rousing Emma Goldman, though technical glitches meant she had to use a hand-held mic at one point.

Anthony Gervais’s Harry Houdini, though effective, also had some audibility issues. As is often the case with Park shows, there were times when the sound quality was harsh and the orchestra overwhelmed the dialogue and singers. And by the time we’re nearing the end of the two-hour, 45-minute run time and hearing yet another full-on, entire-cast anthem, you may be thinking, “OK, enough already, I get the point.”

But that point — that we have a long way to go before the American dream is a reality for all — is indelibly made.

Ragtime American Stage in the Park, Demens Landing Park, St. Petersburg. Through May 14: Wed.Sun., 7:30 p.m. $25-$45 727-8237529, americanstage.org.

Coalhouse Walker (Dante Murray, left) enjoys his new Model T as Henry Ford (Cody Taylor, top) celebrates his invention.

CHAZ D PHOTOGRAHY

The Return of SPC’s Steel Drum Band How

This Steel Drum Band is Making a Comeback

By Cameron Healy

Have you ever listened to the relaxing rhythms of a steel drum band and wondered how they learned to play those tunes?

Believe it or not, St. Petersburg College can teach you.

Instructor Brian Scott teaches steel drums to SPC students who perform out in the community as well as play for fun during rehearsals.

Scott began his musical journey with steel drums as a sixth grader. He couldn’t read music, but had the passion to learn. SPC’s guitar and steel drum instructor Joe Braccio took a chance on Scott.

For the past 16 years, Scott has played steel drums in the music building on the St. Pete/Gibbs Campus under the guidance of Braccio. In 2020, however, Braccio stepped away from SPC to continue teaching the instrument at Eckerd College. That’s when he asked Scott to take his place.

“[Braccio] was probably one of the most influential music teachers I’ve ever had in my life and to take the position on the instrument that I love the most, it’s such a huge honor for me,” Scott said.

But while Scott’s rhythm was right, his timing couldn’t be worse. After starting his new position at the

beginning of the pandemic, he saw his students dwindle from 20 to only four by fall 2021.

“I had a speaker with back tracks and that’s what we did, because we didn’t have enough people for a band and we did that for a whole year,” Scott said.

By September 2022, 11 students registered for the course. It was time to get to work.

By November, the band played at the Indian Shores Sunday Market.

The market gig was their first time performing together in front of an audience. After two years, this was also the first performance for Scott in his new instructor position.

“That’s been a huge goal of mine – to not only take over the class, but

Ron Jeremy: One Tampa Bay Woman's Story

The #1 porn star is a serial rapist. No one told the new girls.

April 21 – 7 p.m. (6:30 doors)

$10 admission • Reservations Required. Talk, followed by a Q&A and book signing.

Jenny Brown, an unguarded exotic dancer in Beaverton, Oregon, seeks financial legitimacy for her and her family through higher channels of adult entertainment. In December, 1997, she meets porn star Ron Jeremy in a strip club and he o ers to introduce her to contacts in Los Angeles. She flies down for a modeling shoot for Hustler Magazine, and Ron rapes her.

to go out and play in the community,” Scott told The Gabber Newspaper. “And that’s what I want to do: I want this to be a community band.”

Scott hopes to have more of a community presence in the band’s future. The 2022-23 school year allowed them to play at multiple markets, churches, and other events.

Scott said his students learned about 10 songs before the last class of the semester on March 29. They celebrated with pizza and playing songs, such as “Tequila” by The Champs.

For now, Scott is hopeful that his growing steel drum crew will become a local fixture.

This article shortened for print; read the full version at thegabber.com.

Most students are new to steel drums, but not to sheet music.

CAMERON HEALY

The Long and Winding Road

All About the Beatles in Florida

By Amanda Hagood

Bob Kealing’s new book Good Day Sunshine State (University Press of Florida, 2023) captures the youthful spirit of the Beatles in the Florida portion of their legendary 1964 tour. But it also explores the more revolutionary side of the tour, which worked to integrate music venues in the segregated South.

Everyone knows that the Beatles made history with their American debut on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. But did you know that the Fab Four spent nearly two weeks of that legendary American tour in Florida?

Beatles fans will delight in veteran rockumentarian Bob Kealing’s new book, Good Day Sunshine State: How the Beatles Rocked Florida (University Press of Florida, 2023). Kealing’s 244 pages are packed with anecdotes and quippy quotes. He also profiles of a broad range of Floridians whose lives were forever changed by the Beatles’ visits to Miami, Jacksonville, and the Keys in 1964.

Revolution

Kealing’s account contains plenty of delightful Beatles trivia. Did you know, for instance, that frenzied teens would hurl jelly beans at the boys during concerts? This was due to a rumor that the (much softer) British equivalent – jelly babies – were their favorite snack.

But the book also delves into the weightier side of the American tour, including the band’s firm anti-segregation stance. By contract, they played only fully integrated venues. Landing

right in the midst of the United States’ Civil Rights movement, the tour provides a fascinating glimpse into how these mop-topped pranksters helped to catalyze social change.

I’ve Just Seen a Face

A real strength of the book is Kealing’s remarkable ability to sketch lively characters out of archival materials. John, Paul, George, and Ringo appear

in all their boyish splendor. But there are fascinating intimations – a quote here, an incident there – of the more complicated superstars they would become by the end of the decade. Just as engaging are Kealing’s portraits of everyday Americans. There’s Kitty Oliver, a young Black teenager attending a concert for the first time in a heretofore all-white venue. Or Sergeant Buddy Dresner of the Miami Beach Police, who had the delicate task of shepherding the band through their South Florida stay – while fending off countless devious teen fans.

And, of course, it wouldn’t be a real Florida adventure without a hurricane! Notorious Hurricane Dora makes a dramatic appearance in the final chapters of the book, very nearly quashing the band’s climactic show in Jacksonville.

The Long and Winding Road

As with any lovingly researched, richly detailed history, some readers may find the texture of Good Day Sunshine State a bit dense at times. If the book were a Beatles song, it would have the deliberate stride and lyrical density of “Come Together” rather than a light poignancy of “Yesterday” or the racing drive of “She Loves You.” But whatever your taste or tempo, sticking with this book is worth it for the rich sense of this remarkable historical moment it evokes.

AMANDA HAGOOD

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.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Medicare & Health Insurance Assistance Frustrated trying to navigate the insurance world? We have you covered! Make your appointment today.

Memory Screenings Worried about your memory? St. Anthony’s Memory Disorder Clinic offers free & confidential memory screenings.

Gulfcoast Legal Assistance Do you need assistance, with lifetime planning docs, Medicaid/Medicare issues, Social Securi-

ty issues, food stamp issues, family law issues, consumer/debt collection Issues, or housing/contract Issues? Call to make an appointment with a legal representative. By appointment only.

Mental Wellbeing One in five Americans will experience a mental illness during their lifetime. Today, we will discuss mental health, why it is important, the most common types of mental illness, and how you can maintain positive mental health. MUST Pre-register. Rm. 107. Apr. 20, 1 p.m.

In the Kitchen with Chef Jack: New England Clam Chowder Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step instruction from Chef Jack. MUST Pre-register. D Hall. Apr. 20, 4 p.m.

Sages Presents: Phoney Baloney Phoney Baloney is a fast-moving collection of true stories about scammers and how they steal from seniors. A diverse group of friends meet regularly at their local community center and swap tales of chaos and peril brought on by simply answering the phone. Enjoy the commentary of our "Greek chorus" observers - Miss Jessica Filcher and Sgt. Moe Monday as they point out tips to turn the tables on tricksters and outsmart scams. Reserve Tickets at www. sagestheater.org Theater. Apr. 22, 2 p.m.

Happy Birthday to YOU! Come celebrate this month’s Birthdays. D Hall. Apr. 26, 3 p.m. EPIC Coffee Connections EPIC Generations invites LGBTQ+ adults for coffee, friendship,

& support. Rm. 106. Apr. 28, 10 a.m.

Movie Matinee Take a break from the hustle & bustle and enjoy a movie on the big screen. Call for movie title. Theater. Apr. 28, 1 p.m.

HCA Lunch & Learn: Stroke Awareness May is Stroke Awareness Month, an opportunity to learn what a stroke is and how to spot the warning signs. Join us for a Lunch and Learn about the risks of stroke and ways to lessen the risk for you and your loved ones. MUST Pre-Register. D Hall. May 2, 2 p.m.

The Girls’ Club A social group of senior single lesbians who just wanna have fun! Meet for a cup of coffee & chit chat and to plan monthly social events to do together. Rm. 107. May 2, 3 p.m.

Meet a Podiatrist: Top 3 Foot Problems

Learn about the causes for heel pain, fungal toenails, and corns and how to fix them. Must pre-register. Rm. 107. May 4, 12:30 p.m. Gulfport ROCKS! Join the party and create some fun rock art. All supplies provided. MUST Pre-register. Sponsored by Moore Medicare Options. Rm. 106. May 5, 1:30 p.m.

GEMS GETAWAYS

Discover Weedon Island & Lunch at El Cap Apr. 26; $8 GEMS Members / $10 NonGEMS Members.

Catherine Hickman Theater 727-893-1070 • 5501 27th Ave. S.

SAGES performance of “Phoney Baloney” a comedy about outsmarting phone scammers. Free and open to the public. Visit sagestheater. org. Apr. 22, 2 p.m.

Gulfport Casino Ballroom

727-893-1070 • 5500 Shore Blvd. S.

Sock Hop with the Impacs Apr. 21, 7 p.m. Advance tickets available at Casino & Beach Bazaar. $15 / $25 for two. Tickets purchased day-of: $20.

Contra Dance with Tampa Friends of Old Time Dance Apr. 23, 3:30 p.m., Contra lesson; 4 p.m., dancing with band & caller. tampabaycontra.com. $10 admission

Balroom Dance With USA Dance Apr. 24, 7 p.m. DJ and dance

hosts, plus a lesson. $7, USA Dance members, $10 non-members

Casino Weekly Dances

Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12 p.m. $15 / $25 couples

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

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

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

Baby Time For children two and younger and their caregivers with infants & young toddlers. Older siblings also welcome. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.

Teen Space Spend time with friends and make new ones. Play games, make art, watch movies, or just hang out. Activities vary – and what we do is up to you! Ages 1218 only. Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

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

STEAM Club: Visit from DunnDee Farms

STEAM is short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Special guest DunnDee FArms will be in the Library Garden. Recommended for Grades K-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information call 727-893-1074. Apr. 26, 4 p.m.

COF Presents: The Importance of Pollinators: Allison Davis of Noble Nectar Apiaries tells about the life cycles of honeybees and other pollinators as well as how important a role they play in our survival. Sponsored by

the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Public Library. Apr. 27, 1 p.m.

Trivia Night Hosted by Gulfport Librarian Alex, a prepared list of questions will be shared with players, who will compete to answer the most questions correctly. Team play is an option with enough attendees. Apr. 27, 6 p.m.

Sew Easy: Quilted Potholders use scraps of fabric to make colorful potholders. Registration required, signups begin April 21. Call 727-893-1074 or email library.programs@ mygulfport.us. Apr. 28, 1 p.m.

Garden Grandpa If you have little ones in grades K-5, join us the first Wednesday of the month in the Reading Garden. Mr. Albert will share his knowledge of gardening and sustainability through storytelling and hands-on fun. May 3, 4 p.m.

Come & Go Craft Drop in for creative, self-directed crafting. For all ages, but some pieces might be on the small side. Supplies are limited and are on a first come, first served basis. Crafting located on children’s area tables.

May. 6, 10 a.m.

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents

Pickleball

Intermediate and advanced Mon., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

All levels Tues., 6-8:30 p.m. and Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Adult Basketball Wed. & Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thurs., 6-8:30 p.m.

Table Tennis Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

PROGRAMS

Summer Program Registrations for the 2023 Summer Program have begun for children who will complete Kindergarten thru age 14. The 10-week program is May 30th – August 4th. Hours of registration are Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.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 verify-

ing 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 2022-2023 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.

CLASSES

Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call Jami: 727893-1079.

Ballet Tues., 5:45 p.m., ages 5-7; 6:45 p.m. intermediate ballet, ages 8-16. $40/month. Lisa: 727-742-2594.

Tap Tues., 7:45 p.m., intermediate. $20/ month. Lisa: 727-742-2594

Cardio Tennis Tues. & Thurs, 6 p.m.; Adult

Grown-Up Movie Series

The Fate of all possible worlds rests on an exhausted mother. Starring Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, and Jamie Lee Curtis. Winner of 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Rated R. Call 727-893-1074 for title. May 6, 1 p.m.

Get Growing City horticulturist, Toffer Ross, answers all your questions about gardening, trees, and landscaping in Florida. May 10, 11 a.m.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Basics Presentation on Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D and what they mean to you. FMI, visit www.floridashine.org. Call 727-893-1073 to make Individual appointments. May 17, 1 p.m.

Book Club This month’s selection is “Beloved” by Toni Morrison. Available as print and audio. May 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. May 20, 2 p.m.

lessons are at Chase Park, 28th Ave. & 53rd St. S. $15/class. Mo: 727-515-1454.

Essentrics Toning Thurs., 9 a.m. $40/ month. Lauren: 248-875-7030

Danskinetics Tues., 10 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.

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

Nia Mon., 10 a.m. $15/class, $40/month. Christine: 727-692-1896

Youth Hip Hop Fri., 6:30 p.m., ages 7-9; 7:30 p.m., ages 9-16. $40/month. Lisa: 727742-2594.

Hula Hoop Fitness Second & fourth Thursday, 6:30 p.m. $10/class. Maria: mestrada1987@gmail.com

Tai Chi Gung Mon. 6:30p.m. and Fri. 10 a.m. $15/class or $50/month. Call Kare 727-2620880

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

If You Could Say One Thing to Gulfport City Council, What Would You Say?

Photos by Cameron Healy

Pat Nolan, Gulfport: “Let the Boca Ciega Yacht Club stay in Gulfport.”

Vicki Morrison, Gulfport: “I love the historical vibe of the community and that’s not just the casino, but also the trees and the natural history.”

David Virtue, Gulfport: “What happened to the traffic mitigation plan on 49th Street?”

Mark Johnson, St. Pete: “Greater change for citizen involvement.”

sudoku

Solution on page 26

Solution

Getting Around gabber on vacation

Treasure Island resident Paul Shann took The Gabber Newspaper to Somerset, England. He decided to take us along to the Alfoxton House, an 18th-century country house. 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.

PAUL SHANN

Disney Throwbacks, Spring for Arts, and Thursday Night Social

Thursday, April 20Sunday, April 23

Spring Festival  Get ready for some fun at the Sacred Heart Spring Festival. Check out local vendors, eat yummy fair food, ride crazy rides, and enjoy great entertainment. This five-day event helps raise money for the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Save money and get tickets online. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 4661 82nd Ave. N., Pinellas Park. Thurs.Fri., 6-11 p.m.; Sat., 12-11 p.m.; Sun., 12-8 p.m. $12-75. 727-541-4447, sacredheartfestival.com

Sand Sculpture Festival  Don’t miss your last chance to experience Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival. This sand sculpting festival showcases the craziest sand creations by world-renowned sand artists. You can watch artists create their amazing sculptures. Enjoy live music, fireworks, street performers, and sand sculpting classes. Buy tickets ahead of time online. Pier 60, 1 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater Beach. Thurs., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. $14. 727-8718060, sugarsandfestival.com

Thursday, April 20Friday, April 21

Anastasia the Musical  Watch the spectacular performance of Anastasia the musical. This student-led production by the PCCA tells the story of a brave young woman set on uncovering her past. This musical tells the story of a person discovering who they are and meant to be. PCCA Gibbs High School Grande Theatre, 850 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. $20. 727-8935452, showtix4u.com

Thursday, April 20

Diana Ross Night  Eat, drink, and dance with your Gulfportian neighbors at Thursday Night Social. DJ Daniel has an awesome playlist of songs by the legendary Diana Ross, including her earliest hits, solos, and duets. Don’t worry, you’ll hear other great artists, music, genres, and eras all night. The North End Tap House & Kitchen, 2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. 6-10 p.m. 727-290-9682, thenorthendtaphouse.com

Eckerd College Poetry Month Spend an evening with Rooja Mohassessy

for National Poetry Month. Mohassessy is an Iranian-born poet, educator, and author of When Your Sky Runs Into Mine, winner of the 22nd Annual Elixir Poetry Prize. All are welcome to join and stay for the post-event book sales and signings.  The Helmar and Enole Nielsen Center for Visual Arts Patio, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. 727-867-1166, eckerd.edu

Friday, April 21-

Saturday, April 22

Senior Art Show  Immerse yourself in the work of artists at Westminster Shores Senior Art Show and Sale. These artists host a gallery showcasing various art pieces. Engage with some of the artists as they display their acrylic and watercolor paintings, photography, and three-dimensional visual art. Westminster Shores, Sunrise Point Lifelong Learning Center, 5560 Bahama Shores Dr., St. Petersburg. Fri., 5-7 p.m.; Sat., 3-6 p.m. 727-867-2131, westminstershoresfl.org

Friday, April 21

Ron Jeremy – One Woman’s Story

Join author Jennifer Mondello as she talks about her experience with Ron Jeremy. This reservations-required, 18-and-up event will discuss the history of how criminalization of parts of the adult entertainment industry has allowed sexual abuse of women to go unchecked and unpunished. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. $10. info@ gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

Spring for Art Party Celebrate equality through art with Creative Clay at its Spring for Arts fundraiser. Enjoy a night of art exhibits from members, live painting, live music and theater performances, and a silent auction. Buy a ticket online and you automatically enter a raffle contest to win a five-night stay at a Vidanta luxury resort in Mexico.  Nova 535, 535 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N, St. Petersburg. 6-9 p.m. 727-8250515, creativeclay.org

Saturday, April 22

Phoney Baloney Stop phone scams and learn the signs of a scammer from the performance of Phoney Baloney . This “play with purpose” is a collection of true stories about scammers and how they steal from seniors. It showcases a group who meet regularly to swap their scam-

mer stories and exchange advice on how to outsmart scammers.

Catherine A. Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 2 p.m. 727-536-7076, sagestheater.org

Disney Throwback Party  “T” as in Troy? No. “T” is for travel back in time for this dance party! We’re breaking free from the adult world. Heal your inner child with these Disney throwbacks of the ‘90s and 2000s. Grab your friends to recreate the Cheetah Girls or live a double life as Hannah Montana. Dance your heart out to your childhood favorites. This is an 18+ event. Buy your tickets online. Jannus Live, 200 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 7-11:30 p.m. $18. 727-565-0550, jannuslive.com

Sunday, April 23

Pop-Up Thrift Come on down to this Pop-Up Thrift Market. Explore the variety of second-hand items from vendors as well as upcycled art pieces. Eat and drink as you walk around the artful garden. This family friendly event invites everyone to enjoy the fun in finding unique vintage items. The Movement Sanctuary, 910 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 12-5 p.m. 727-537-0515, themovementsanctuary.com

Tuesday, April 25

Deadline for ArtOUT Submit your art for this year’s ArtOUT. All are welcome to enter any medium of art that relates to this year’s theme “emergence.” This international juried art show is a signature pride program from Gulfport’s LGBTQ Resource Center. Winning entries get cash prizes and go on exhibit at The James Museum in St. Pete. Deadline for entries is April 25. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1074, docs.google.com

Thursday, April 27

Beach Mayors’ Town Hall  Hear from Pinellas County beach mayors at the State of the Beaches mayors’ town hall. With the help of a moderator, elected officials have the opportunity to discuss what is happening in their beachside cities. All beach businesses and residents are welcome to attend and stay for a meet-and-greet with their mayors. Treasure Island City Hall, 120 108th Ave., Treasure Island. 5:30 p.m. 727-360-4121, isps. spcollege.edu

worship

17th St. & 29th Ave N

St. Petersburg 345-7777

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com

JewishHeritage.net

Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

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

Hours 10 AM to 2PM

Wednesday to Saturday

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

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00

Affiliated with St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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

Sunday Services 10AM

Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

Jeanette “Bunny” Nissen

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net

“You need not think alike to love alike.” - Francis David, 1534 uuunited.org

It is with deep sorrow I announce the passing of my wife, Jeanette, “Bunny” Nissen on March 30 of this year. There will be a celebration of her life on May 20, between 1-5 p.m., at the Town Shores clubhouse.

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

Richie Rich This happy 1-year-old, 30-pound pit mix named Richie has so much love to give. He had a leg injury requiring amputation, but he had an amazing recovery and is ready for a family. Richie’s adoption fee is $75. You must own your home to adopt him.

Miss London This 5-year-old, pit mix named London is one of the happiest dogs you’ll ever meet. She loves chasing her tennis ball and playing outside. She has a chronic eye condition with diminished eyesight, but that doesn’t stop her from having fun. London’s adoption fee is $75. You must own your home to adopt her.

My Man Stan Stanley is a chill cat looking for a lap to snuggle up on. He is a 3-year-old, domestic short hair male tabby.

Pet Food Warehouse, 1830 61st Ave. N., St. Pete. 727-521-6191; petfoodstpete.com.

Ball of Energy Meet Novi! This 5-month-old is a Jack Russell mix who loves the zoomies. He will bring his great puppy energy to your family.

Charlie, the Chocolate Lab Charlie is outgoing and wants to go on an adventure with a family. He is a 3-year-old, lab mix. He loves yummy treats.

Jack Jack This 10-week-old male tabby named Jack would love to play with you. He loves wrestling, teasing, and playing with his toys and sisters. He is extremely friendly and curious to meet everyone.

All pets spayed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and dewormed. Pet Pal Animal Shelter, 405 22nd Ave. S., St. Pete. 727-328-7738; petpalanimalshelter.com.

Find out more • Call Christine 727-851-5866

License #30212446

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

HAPPY HEARTS SENIOR CARE

Happy Hearts Senior Care is dedicated to providing quality, empathetic senior care. Services we provide are: Companion Care, Personal Care, Transitional Care, Respite Care, Medication Management, and Meal Preparation. Contact us today to schedule a personalized consultation! 727-342-0176. Website: https://happyheartsseniorcare.com/

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

THE CLEANING LADY

Reliable and dependable. Residential only. Weekly, bi-weekly and monthly. Moving out or moving in cleanouts. Permanent and seasonal residents. Over 25 yrs experience. Feel free to call Angelique: 727-686-7277. References available upon request.

727-343-2838

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; jscomputerrepair.com

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP XERISCAPING/ PLANTS/MULCH

Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, lawn maintanence, leaves removed, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Electrical consults available. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Locally St. Pete /Gulfport: 407244-6045. James: 407-244-6045.

HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs. Small jobs welcome. Quality work at reasonable prices. Honest. Reliable. Free estimates. John: 727-410-2201.

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

DAVE’S TILE & BATHROOM REMODELS & FLOORING INSTALLATIONS Specializing in bathroom remodels, marble tile, flooring, etc. 36 years mechanical experience, competitive rates. Call anytime, day or night: 727-798-2075.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE

DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & REPAIRS

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

Expert

Repair

Lawn & Landscape

TREE SERVICE BY PAYLESS

Tree removal, trimming, stump grinding. Also do yard work, mulching, weeding, and yard clean up. Call for estimate: 727-641-9033.

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

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP MEETS THURSDAYS

Pasadena Community Church / Life Enrichment Building / Classroom 3c, 227 70th St. S., St. Petersburg, Fl 33707. Free, no registration, 7 p.m. Call 727-410-1569 for more information. Website: https:// dbsatampabay.org

NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber now provides Notary Services (in office only) at 2908-B Beach Blvd S., 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.

727-742-8074

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. 727410-7323.

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.

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!

Heating & Air Conditioning

specializing

We

Servicing Gulfport, Pasadena and St Petersburg Areas. Contact JungleGirlTropicals@gmail.com Ph. 815-980-2759

James Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

Trees Cleaned • Bobcat Services Stump Grinding • Hazardous Limb Removal Storm and Roof Protection • Insured 727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

LIC#0700008985

Marine Repair

HURRICANE SEASON SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

WE'LL PREP YOUR BOAT FOR THE STORM ALL SEASON LONG LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE

727-238-5683

GRAND OPENING: MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT - SOUTH PASADENA Moonstone Myo + Medicupping, specializing in Therapeutic Massage & Cupping! www.MoonstoneMyo.com. Call or text 727-859-2020. 933 Oleander Way S., Suite 4, South Pasadena, FL 33707

Moving / Hauling

HB HAULING SERVICES Hauling Services

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

Painting

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

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.

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”

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

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.

in tropical, rare & exotic plants

plant, mulch, pressure wash, trim your shrubs and trees.

Professional Services

RENEW YOUR MARRIAGE VOWS!

Anywhere in Gulfport, Pasadena, Madeira, and St. Pete area. At your home, park, garden, or on the beach. Schedule now with Florida’s respected Chaplain, Rich L. Kemp. Half hour ceremony only $77.77. Book at 702-577-6777.

CARPETS AND TILE CLEANING

Carpets cleaned and sanitized. 3 rooms and hallway: $150. 2 rooms and hallway: $125. Sofa/loveseat: $150. Tile and grout steam cleaning, wood floor sanitation, refinish vinyl & marble floors. Full janitorial services available. Call 727-623-7948 or 813-750-9851.

We're hiring a stringer for beach news and political coverage. Experience preferred. Clips required. No telecommuting; locals only. Send clips to cathy@thegabber.com

KITCHEN HELP NEEDED ALL POSITIONS

American Legion Post 125, St. Pete, is seeking waitress staff and cook assistant. Seniors encouraged to apply. Call or text 727326-7756 for details.

HIRING BARTENDERS & DISHWASHER

The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant on Pass-a-Grill Beach. No phone calls - apply in person. 809 Gulf Way St., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706.

Real Estate For Rent

TOWN SHORES

Ivanhoe Bldg. Oversized 1 BR/1 B Deluxe, 1st flr, waterfront, nicely furnished, steps to pool. Easy living! Annual lease. Over 55 (no smoking, no pets). Avail. Now. Call Sally (agent/owner) 727-204-6767.

VELVET CLOAKE

1 BR/1 B, nicely remodeled in Pinellas Point S. area. Furnished. Over 55. First flr w/ easy access to pool and beautiful courtyard. Gated. No smoking, no pets. On Tpa Bay overlook Skyway. Avail. May 1. Annual lease. Straight up 4th St S to dwntwn St Pete. Easy I-275 entrance nearby. Call Sally (agent/owner) 727-204-6767.

LOVELY 2 ROOM FURNISHED EFFIENCY

IN GULFPORT Steps from Marina. Private entrance, parking, includes utilities, heat, A/C, & wi-fi. Security deposit, no smoking, no pets. References required. 55+ seniors, $1,500/month. Call or text 727-455-7296.

Real Estate For Sale

BAY ISLAND

Commodore Bldg. 6th Flr., wide open water view from your balcony! 1 BR/1.5 bath of easy living, Over 55, gated 24/7 security. 4 min. to the sands of St Pete Bch. Washer/dryer. Tons of amenities. $340,000. Call

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

Real Estate Sales

Find All the Listings, Along with Beach Sales, at thegabber.com. Here’s what homes sold in South Pinellas Apr. 7-13.

Other Gulfport Home Sales

5950 Pelican Bay Plaza, #901

This three-bedroom, two-bath condo – which dates to 1982 – has 1,912 square feet. It listed for $899,000 and sold for $850,000.

6344 8th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, two-and-one-half-bath home, built in 1955, has 1,344 square feet. It listed for $575,000 and sold for $560,000.

2812 Miriam St. S. (Marina)

This 1959 home has two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,652 square feet. It listed for $500,000 and sold for $510,000.

5613 19th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

2826 54th St. S. (Waterfront District)

This four-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1952, has 2,121 square feet. It listed and sold for $685,000.

This three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1955, has 1,332 square feet. It listed and sold for $475,000.

2820 53rd St. S. (Waterfront District)

This 1950 home has three bedrooms, one bath, and 1,032 square feet. It listed for $475,000 and sold for $474,000.

CATHY SALUSTRI

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Group Schedule:

One-Time In-Person

Group Quit Sessions

CareerSource Pinellas ���� Gulf to Bay Blvd., Clearwater

Friday, April ��, ���� �:��pm - �:��pm

4-Week Virtual Group

Tuesdays

May � - May ��, ���� �:��pm - �:��pm

One-Time Virtual Group

Friday, April ��, ���� | ��:��am - ��:��pm

Monday, April �4, ���� | 6:��pm - �:��pm

Tuesday, April �5, ���� | �:��pm - 4:��pm SPANISH

Thursday, April �7, ���� | ��:��am - ��:��pm

Friday, April ��, ���� | ��:��pm - �:��pm

Monday, May �, ���� | 6:��pm - �:��pm

Tuesday, May �, ���� | 6:��pm - �:��pm

Wednesday, May �, ���� | ��:��am - ��:��pm

Thursday, May 4, ���� | �:��pm - �:��pm

Registration is required. Call the GNAHEC office or register online: tobaccofreeflorida.com/groupquitcalendar