The Gabber: June 8, 2023

By Cameron Healy

It’s kitten season! When you see a litter of kittens outside, your heart tells you to “rescue” them. But Friends of Strays actually suggests to leave them alone.

“Kitten season is the time of year when outdoor cats that aren’t fixed are out doing what they do: procreating,” Friends of Strays’ Communication & Marketing Manager Jessica Salmond said.

According to the animal shelter, female cats will average three to four litters a year, which leads to the name “kitten season.”

From early March to late September, Friends of Strays recommends people to not kit -nap kittens. Kitten litters pop up, but it is best to leave them with their mothers.

Salmond said the shelter receives the most calls about stray kittens in late spring through the summer.

“People will come across these kittens by themselves and go into panic mode,” Salmond said. “They’re worried that the kittens are starving, they’re alone, and they aren’t being cared for. But, what often ends up happening is the mom is out getting food at the moment.”

Without education on kitten season, people with good intentions often immediately take the kittens. However, Salmond said this lowers their survival rates significantly. It’s critical for them to stay in the mom’s care.

Overall, if you see kittens alone,

come back in three-six hours to make sure the mom returned.

Foster Programs

When people take the kittens to Friends of Strays, they end up in

Kittens continued on page 10

During kitten season, Friends of Strays partners with other local shelters to take in animals when they are over capacity.

JESSICA SALMOND

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

Gabber is Good

I haven’t seen a copy of The Gabber Newspaper in years, but when I was in Gulfport for a business meeting, I picked up a copy. I have enjoyed getting reacquainted with The Gabber and being reminded of the local news concept and how well The Gabber Newspaper covers it. As someone who started his journalism career on the late, great St. Petersburg Evening Independent, I value the local voice very much. —Fred.. W. Wright. Jr., Seminole

The Live Oak Tree For Sale in Gulfport

While I don’t currently live in Gulfport, I did live there for about a dozen years. I left in 2019 for Hernando County, where I have more breathing room, and a home which includes a large, old oak tree on the property. I quite like the oak tree, on my private property. I’ve put time and care into the tree so it remains healthy, continues to provide shade, and hopefully doesn’t destroy my home in severe weather.

My first thought when I read some of “The Oak Tree” letters to the editor was the phrase, “Not In My Backyard!”; “Don’t build that here, don’t remove that from my city, don’t do what doesn’t please me. I live here, I am comfortable the way it is. Don’t change my world.”  I witnessed this attitude when I lived in Gulfport when some new buildings were being planned/built.

My second thought was how selfish that manner of thinking is.

Some people feel they own the area in which they live; they are quite comfortable and hope nothing changes to any large extent. It seems some people would love to control what other people do with their privately owned property. To sum it up, these people enjoy their life in Gulfport, but would try to deny an individual or perhaps an entire family from doing the same simply because they don’t like the style of their house or the fact that a tree

will be removed from the property. Well, I understand the oak tree lot is on the market for purchase. Buy it. Otherwise, let it go. Change is constant, and you can’t always beat back change with a big stick. When I left Gulfport, it certainly wasn’t a deeded community with a homeowners association. Do they want controlled living with additional rules and regulations? Move to a deeded community. They can experience real control.

One writer mentioned that trees “are alive, just like humans.” I will gladly concede that trees are alive. However, do you see that carrot in the salad bowl? It, too, was alive.  Alive and thriving until it was ripped from its home in the soil, then drowned and sliced to bits so it could then be devoured. Imagine: carrots and live oak trees being massacred. Why, that’s right up there with Ukrainian citizens and their homes being wiped out by the Russian government for no apparent reason.

If someone is genuinely concerned about the environment, and

the assumed looks of a new building (which was also mentioned), surely there are better ways of dealing with the issue than imposing your personal views on an individual and their private property. People can make changes in their own private lives without imposing themselves on others.

Although, I hear the Amazon rainforest could use a hand. —Philip Penrose, Hernando County

Correction

The June 1 edition of The Gabber Newspaper incorrectly reported the following items in the story entitled “People in Glass Towers”: author G.G. Miraglia grew up in Queens (not Brooklyn). Rather than being placed in the Federal Witness Protection program, it is more accurate to say he cooperated with the federal government in exchange for information.

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.

Mike Bauer submitted a photo of his painting about the grand live oak tree on the lot currently for sale in the Waterfront District.

MIKE BAUER

Questions About Gulfport

April Thanos Reviews Questions from Gulfport on the Edge

By April Thanos

There were so many wonderful presentations at the April 10 Gulfport on the Edge town hall. In going through my notes from the event, I found some questions to answer now. There will be a presentation to council at the June 20 meeting. We hope many of you will show up to hear what your neighbors are thinking and if you agree or not. I welcome all input. It will take all of us to keep Gulfport the wonderful place that we all love.

In going through all the notes from the last session on April 10, I found some questions that I can answer.

Do we have an Arts/Culture Board?

No, we don’t. I believe the city council and the GMC are all very oriented to artistic and cultural events and certainly open to any new ideas. The Gulfport Historical Society operates as a 501(c)(3) and runs the Gulfport Arts Center in a city-sponsored building to serve the community. They are always looking for volunteers.

Can we limit the number of bars?

If an area is zoned to allow bars (among other types of businesses)

right now you can’t limit how someone chooses to use their property. I’m not sure if we can limit the overall number of bars, restaurants, or any other business allowed in a zoned area. We might have to get an opinion from the State.

Can we limit chain companies and McMansions?

[Former Ward III Councilmember] Yolanda Roman was concerned about chain stores and found that if we defined the “character” of Gulfport in a way that would mean a chain store would change the ‘character” — they could be prohibited. However, the Council at the time did not want to do that.

We created our current residential heights and setbacks in 1993 and 2012. Winway (as an example) builds to those setbacks, usually using them to the fullest, but not getting variances to do more. I have heard some communities have reduced the size of homes that can get built and I’m checking on it. Normally, now you can’t reduce the height and setbacks due to the Florida Bert Harris lawsuit, which prohibits anything that could reduce the “value” of a property, which reducing the height or setbacks could do.

Can artists get an inside track on available properties?

This would be up to individuals to contact a Realtor to keep them informed.

Can we educate locals on available resources?

Two residents have started a monthly “New Residents” informational session to discuss all the resource available in Gulfport. You can also find them on the website. (I hope we can improve the site with this budget. We removed information to make the website ADA compatible and is slowly getting put back again.)

Does the Senior Center reach out to children with programs?

They do not, but the Library and the Rec Center certainly do. I’m sure this is something that potentially could happen.

Recycling and Composting

Gulfport has a robust recycling program. The program loses money due to limited markets, but it is important to keep doing it so that the market for recycled goods increases. The City also sells composting bins at a reduced price for residents through the Public Works Department.

Every month, The Gabber Newspaper makes space available to any elected official who wishes to let their constituents know how they’re working to represent them. We offer this space as a free community service. This marks Councilmember O’Hara’s first report. O’Hara represents Gulfport’s Ward IV, although voters citywide elect all four representatives and Gulfport’s mayor. Any elected official who wants to take advantage of this space should reach out to cathy@thegabber.com.

Fish or Fowl?

Ruffled Feathers at the Skyway

By Mike Sunnucks

The battle between pelican advocates and fishermen at the Skyway fishing pier is heating up. The conflict? Proposed fishing restrictions — including potentially reducing hours and closing sections of the popular pier.

Groups such as Friends of the Pelicans and the Center for Biological Diversity say more than 1,000 pelicans get hurt or killed by fishing lines each year at the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. They blame fishing and want the state to ban multi-hook lures. They also want the state to close the park at sunset. The park currently allows fishing 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

The aim is to reduce fishing line and lure entanglements involving pelicans, seagulls, and other birds.

Angling advocates worry the new rules will bite into fishing livelihoods and aim to significantly restrict fishing at the pier.

“They want to blame the fish-

erman,” said Jay Cross, one of the founders of the Skyway Misfits fishing group, which opposes a number of the fishing rules and restrictions under consideration by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Cross worries that some conservation and rescue activists are pushing for a significant scaling back or shutdown of fishing off the pier at the bridge.

“Now, they just want the pier closed down,” he said.

The World’s Longest Pier

The fishing pier at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which connects St. Petersburg and Pinellas County with Manatee County, is the longest in the world. On both sides of Tampa Bay, the pier consists of undamaged sections of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge. In 1980, the Summit Venture hit the southbound span of the bridge. Portions of the

span collapsed, killing 35 people. A new bridge opened in 1987, and in 1992, the state tore down the center spans of the old bridge. The state converted the remaining spans into one state park. The park has a 1.55mile pier in Manatee and a 0.55-mile pier in Pinellas County. FWC operates both piers 24/7, 365 days a year.

Bird conservation groups want those hours scaled back. They also want sections of the long pier potentially closed during certain hours or permanently.

More than 200,000 people visit the pier annually, according to FWC. Fishing has a $13.5 billion economic impact statewide and supports 120,000 jobs, according to state projections.

The Skyway pier’s length and height make it one of Florida’s premier fishing destinations. However, it also makes it dangerous for pelicans and other seabirds, according to Elise Pelicans continued on page 7

A dispute at the Skyway fishing pier centers on pelican safety and fishing.

CATHY SALUSTRI

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Bennett, Florida and Caribbean director and senior attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD).

The 16-foot high pier, coupled with it length and deeper water near the channel make for longer fishing lines — and plenty of foraging seabirds.

“It’s high up and it’s far out,” Bennett told The Gabber Newspaper “We all know this is part of a crashed bridge that goes so far out in the bay. There have to be preventative measures put in place.”

Capital Letters

CBD and other groups, including the Friends of Pelicans, the Humane Society of the United States, American Bird Conservancy, and Conservancy of Southwest Florida wrote the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in December and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission in February. The groups pressed for actions and new fishing rules at the Skyway. They also called on both agencies to enforce the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

The international treaty offers protections to 122 bird species. That list includes various species of ducks, flamingos, pelicans, swans, and storks, according to a 2020 list published by USFW.

The letter reads, “without the Service’s enforcement of the MBTA, we are gravely concerned that the

continued operation of the Skyway Fishing Pier will continue to contribute to the catastrophic decline of coastal bird populations in Tampa Bay.”

Brown pelicans, prevalent in Florida, enjoy protection under the treaty. The treaty aims to protect avian species from harm and endangerment. Brown pelicans joined the U.S. endangered species list in 1970, and rejoined it in 2009. Florida, along with Texas and other Gulf coast areas, has an estimated 650,000 brown pelicans, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

In their letter to FWC, the groups contended more than 2,000 birds, including pelicans, have gotten hooked and entangled over the past two years.

The groups wrote the FWC in February stating, “many of these birds have sustained grotesque and painful injuries from multiple hook gear, including torn pouches and severed ligaments, which may require surgery or euthanasia. Still many other birds are not so fortunate as those rescued. Rescuers and members of the public have observed even more pelicans and other coastal birds injured, drowning, or dead around the Skyway Pier and nearby rookeries.”

New Rules for Old Salts

The conservation and rescue groups want the agencies to impose new rules and restrictions on types of fishing lures and hooks. Additionally, the groups also want the state to limit the number of fishing rods each fisherman can use.

In the FWS letter, the groups called for requirements that fishermen 12 or older must physically hold a pole at the Skyway. The groups also call for a ban on treble hooks, sabiki rigs, and other multihook gear and allowing one hook per line. Finally, the groups want the state to close sections of the pier and limit nighttime hours.

Bennett also wants to see more “full-time rescuers” on the pier. CBD and other groups would like to see FWC contract with a rescue group or hire personnel to provide more immediate aid to tangled and distressed birds.

“It’s been up to volunteers to do it,” she said.

Pelican Protectors

Friends of the Pelicans, one of the lead groups at the pier, declined requests for a telephone interview, citing scheduling issues. The group

Pelicans continued from page 5 Pelicans continued on page 8

Rescue groups point to discoveries of pelicans and other birds they say have been mutilated or scalped.

Pelicans continued from page 7

did not respond to emailed questions about the Skyway issue.

In a September 2022 letter to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, FOTP founder Jeanette Edwards petitioned the north Skyway Fishing Pier to close, at least temporarily. She also wants the pier to close at sunset and for FWC to investigate potential animal cruelty toward pelicans and other birds.

Rescue groups point to discoveries of pelicans and other birds they say have been mutilated or scalped. Subsequent investigations have yet to show that anyone harmed the birds intentionally. Still, Edwards and other pelican activists want FWC to send undercover officers to the state park to investigate.

Bennett said the state agency could also potentially look at constructing a new pier, scaled down from the current bridge span.

Agency Response

A return letter from USFWS Assistant Director Jerome Ford to the aviary advocates called the bird situation at the Skyway “concerning.” However, the letter focused more on working with other groups and interests on the issue.

“The issue will require the collaboration of many entities. It is important that all ideas are included to create a reasonable resolution,” Ford wrote.

Bennett called the response “disappointing” and wanted to see more action from the Biden administration on the Florida matter.

FWC started its most recent look at the Skyway fishing/bird dispute last year, soliciting public comments. The state panel held a meeting on the matter in February in Jacksonville and instructed staff to come with a set of proposals for a July meeting.

Potential state rules include restricting sabiki and other multihook rigs and creating an annual education requirement on bird safety for Skyway fishermen. FWC staff said pelicans have a higher death rate at the Tampa area

pier than other fishing spots in the state.

Fishing Feud

Fishing advocates — some of whom rely on fishing for their vocations and livelihood — oppose some of the restrictions.

Gigi Cross, with Skyway Misfits, said rescue activists unfairly blame fishermen for pelicans found “scalped” at the Skyway in January.

“That was not true,” she said. “It’s all lies.”

Cross also said some bird rescuers feed pelicans and other birds at the pier, adding to the problem. The law prohibits feeding the birds, but some say the state has not consistently enforced the law.

CBD’s Bennett said rescuers sometimes use chum to attract birds in need of rescuing or untangling from fishing lines.

“Feeding is restricted. Chumming is allowed,” she said.

But Cross said relations are so sour between anglers and pelican and bird groups that the issues and motivations come into question.

“It’s not about the pelicans. It’s about fishing,” she said. “They are anti-fishing.”

Rob Cross, her husband, said if the Skyway effort is successful some bird rescue proponents could potentially bring more rules and restrictions to other fishing piers across the state.

“They want to take this program to all the piers in Florida and implement it,” he said, pointing to fish-

ing rules implemented in Naples in 2021. Those include a ban on fishing on Sundays.

Bennett said every pier and fishing spot offers a different situation. But she added that birds, including brown pelicans common to Florida, feel the brunt of fishing and deserve more consideration.

Fear Mongering

The Skyway Misfits group questioned the pelicans advocates’ data on entanglements and bird deaths.

“It’s fear mongering,” Jay Cross said.

Robert Neff, who works with the fishing group, challenges some of the entanglement data. He said some of the pelican death and injury data provided to FWC includes birds found on St. Pete Beach, in Palmetto, and on Interstate 275. He also questioned whether some of the pictures provided to the state agency of injured or dead pelicans are from the Skyway, saying in an April 28 communication with FWC that some of the pictures show birds with fishing hooks not used at the state park.

Neff also said the bird and pelican’s protectors are creating issues by feeding birds.

“The hotspots have been created because they are feeding the birds,” he said.

FWC referred to meeting presentations, public comments, and announcements about potential Skyway fishing rules in response to questions from The Gabber Newspaper

The brown pelican, a familiar feathery sight along the Gulf Coast, has twice joined the endangered species list — most recently in 2009.

CATHY SALUSTRI

School’s Out for Summer

An End-of-Year Update from Boca Ciega High

By Jennifer Gil

(Boca Ciega High School principal Jennifer Gil sent the following email to The Gabber Newspaper and many others throughout the community. It has been edited for clarity.)

Our journey through the 20222023 school year has come to an end. The path this year was not without its challenges, as BCHS students experienced the loss of two young Pirates by suicide, changes in administration, staff, and changes to state assessments. However, despite these challenges, BCHS Pirates remained resilient. We not only stayed afloat but we excelled in many areas.

Here are some highlights from the 2022-2023 school year:

Science teacher Dana Ingebretsen was named a Top 10 finalist for Pinellas Teacher of the Year.

Algebra 1 tutor Lucas Corson earned the BCHS Emerging Teacher of the Year award.

Fundamental clerk Gary Biron was named a Pinellas County Support Staff Finalist.

Girlfriend’s Club Sponsor Jessica Koontz earned the Pinellas County Schools Group Mentor Teacher of the Year award.

We had two Pinellas County Coaches of the Year, Rachel Jolley (soccer) and Tobey Alvarez (wrestling).

Robert Medici earned the Grade & Grit recognition by Pinellas County Schools.

Advanced Drama and Musical Theater students prepared 23 pieces to compete at the District IV Thespian Festival and took home 20 medals of Superior and Excellent.

String Quartet members Angelina, Amari Grayson, Larimar Vasquez, and Pricilla Thomas made school history together by earning the highest rating at the State Orchestra and Solo Ensemble.

Senior Anthony Lee earned acceptance to Yale University on a fullride scholarship.

AVID seniors earned more than $4.3 million dollars in scholarships this year.

Students at the Senior Awards Ceremony earned more than $100,000 in scholarships.

BCHS Pirates took home all or almost all the awards and scholarships at the Dr. Martin Luther King Leadership Awards ceremony and the Vyrle Davis Academic Achievement Awards.

CWMP seniors hold a 100% pass rate on the CNA certification exams and over a 90% pass rate on the EKG certification test, and graduated 13 EMTs.

Senior Isabel Mendez won two silver keys for the Scholastic Writing Awards.

Our academic team placed third in the Superintendent’s Academic Challenge district competition, beating out all other schools except Largo High and St. Petersburg High.

In the area of athletics, there were two district and regional runner-up finishes in girls’ track and girls’ soccer; two district championship titles in swimming and girls’ wrestling; and two PCAC championships in girls’ wrestling and girls’ lacrosse.

Senior Jackson Payne competed at state in golf, the first ever in school history.

Sophomore Kinea Moore placed first in the state in girls’ wrestling.

Sophomore Malayna Mallory broke the school shot put record several times this year. She competed at the state level for shot put and triple jump, finishing in fourth place in shot put.

There is so much more that I could highlight about the 2022-2023 school year. We are so proud of our Pirates and all that they continue to accomplish at THE Boca Ciega High School.

You may ask, how can you support us? Here are three simple ways: Share the good news in this email with your family, friends and community.

Follow us on social media (Facebook and Instagram).

Attend BCHS events and athletic contests when you hear about them.

Thank you for your time, be kind, and pass along that Pirate Pride!

Lisa Pence

Boca Ciega High School.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Kittens continued from cover the foster program. Foster Program Manager Kelly Kraemer said they receive hundreds of kittens in their foster program every kitten season.

“These shelter environments are not safe for these kittens,” Kraemer said. “Their immune systems are more compromised and they’re more exposed to diseases. We try to keep these underage kittens out of the shelter as much as possible. So, we reach out to our foster network.”

The caregivers host kittens for about eight weeks, depending on the age and weight of the kitten. Kraemer said the kittens must be two months old or weigh two pounds before they can get neutered.

This is where Friends of Strays’ Kitten Heroes program comes in.

Friends of Strays’ medical team neuters the fostered kittens for free. According to the shelter’s website, this program intends “to ease the burden on shelters and rescues,” and asks caregivers “to seek adoptive homes for kittens through wordof-mouth or other social networks.”

In March, Pepper came to their shelter a day old and in critical condition. His two siblings came in with him and did not survive.

Injured Kittens

If they are injured, that’s when you should call Friends of Strays or other municipal shelters.

“We are fortunate enough to take on some medical cases,” Kraemer said. “If we have a kitten that comes to us with a leg injury or eye injury, our veterinarian will provide eye enucleations, eye removals, or

amputations. We want to do what is best for the animals.”

Friends of Strays provides medical care for adult, outdoor cats through their Pinellas Cats Alive program. This TNVR program is “designed for an individual who may have one or two free-roaming cats around their neighborhood that they would like to have spayed or neutered.”

JESSICA SALMOND

Pinellas School Bus Drivers Get Pay Raise Officials Hope Move Helps Address Driver Shortage

By Monroe Roark

The Pinellas County School Board took significant action to address the shortage of bus drivers throughout the district.

The board voted unanimously to approve a pay increase for drivers effective immediately. This happened at a May 22 special board meeting. The district currently has about 60 unfilled bus driver positions, according to officials.

District superintendent Kevin Hendrick pointed out that that move should help attract more drivers. But he said an increase was needed anyway.

“Even with the increased efforts, we are still seeing a shortage of bus drivers,” said Paula Texel, associate superintendent of human resource services. “One area we feel is a hin-

drance is driver pay.”

Pay rose from $16.36 to $19.79 per hour for drivers and from $17.98 to $21.76 per hour for relief drivers. Lead driver pay went from $19.79 to $21.76 per hour. Texel said that these figures are more in line with private delivery companies and public transit. The increase also puts Pinellas County drivers among the highest in the Tampa Bay area. They are now ahead of Polk, Hillsborough, and Pasco County Schools.

This raise applies not only to new hires, but to those currently driving for the district.

“Knowing the challenges we’ve faced with regard to bus drivers, I think it’s important we approve this raise,” said school board member Caprice Edmond. “And I think we

need to stay open-minded with other ways we can make this job more of what someone would want.”

The transportation department said it hopes to advertise these positions and the increase immediately. This should allow staff to train new drivers over the summer and have all routes filled by the start of school.

Pinellas County Schools will host a job fair June 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Pinellas Technical College, 901 34th Street South in St. Petersburg. The fair is for all support staff. This includes mechanics, drivers, food and nutrition, custodians, painters, equipment operators, HVAC technicians, and other positions.

For more information, visit pcsb. org/jobfair.

School bus drivers in Pinellas County got a pay increase.

MONROE ROARK

Gulfport’s Safe Place for Newborns Florida Law Allows Infant Drop-offs in Certain Locations

By Monroe Roark

Amid the ongoing political battle between those who claim to be saving babies and those who claim to be protecting women’s reproductive rights, a nationwide initiative to save the lives of newborns is alive and well locally.

A sign posted on the outside wall of the Gulfport fire station reads, “A Safe Haven for Newborns.” It is a colorful expression of what is available to new mothers according to Florida law.

A state statute stipulates that a child who appears to be no more than seven days old can be left at a hospital, emergency medical facility or fire station without any repercussions to the parent, unless there is evidence of physical abuse. In other words, the parent can walk away, no questions asked. Such an action, by law, signifies consent to termination of parental rights.

“Except when there is actual or suspected child abuse or neglect, any parent who leaves a newborn infant with a firefighter, emergency medical technician, or paramedic at a fire station or emergency medical services station, or brings a newborn infant to an emergency room of a hospital and expresses an intent to leave the newborn infant and not return, has the absolute right to

remain anonymous and to leave at any time and may not be pursued or followed unless the parent seeks to reclaim the newborn infant,” according to the statute.

The facility that receives the child will provide emergency medical services as needed. The personnel on hand will arrange for immediate transportation of the newborn to the nearest hospital.

The fire station is the only such facility in Gulfport. Fire chief Rene Fernandez said that is because it is the sole outlet staffed 24 hours a day.

The issue came up briefly in the Gulfport City Council’s May 16 meeting. A local resident spoke about a recent news report of a newborn in the area being left in a trash can. She expressed dismay that recent legislative action regarding abortion could lead to more such cases. Then she specifically asked if any “safe haven” locations exist in the city.

According to a Florida-based foundation, since 2000 at least 363 newborns have been left in “safe haven” locations and thus kept in safety. During that time period, 64 have been known to be abandoned in unsafe locations, of which 33 died.

The fire station is also designated a “Safe Place” where young people under 18 can find help. That phrase is the actual name of a national youth outreach and prevention program that tries to make help readily available to youth in communities across the country.

A young person who enters a “Safe Place” is given a place to wait while a licensed agency is contacted. A qualified person then arrives to talk with the youth and provide transportation to the agency if necessary. From there, officials make sure the appropriate counseling, support, or professional services will be provided.

This sign is on the outside wall at the Gulfport fire station. A person can drop off a newborn with no questions asked.

MONROE ROARK

Gulfport’s Scout Hall Reopens Two-Year Renovation of Historic Structure Complete

By Monroe Roark

One of Gulfport’s historic buildings is once again available for community use after a lengthy renovation.

“Scout Hall indeed is open for business,” said Gulfport cultural facilities events supervisor Justin Shea. “We are ready to start programming events again, and Senior Services has begun using that building.”

City officials closed it two years ago. The Gabber Newspaper reported in the summer of 2021 that the building, which Shea said is probably more than 100 years old, was closed because of severe structural problems.

Among other things, the south wall came off the ceiling joists.

Gulfport public works director Tom Nicholls said the City called in an engineer that fall and completed drawings by the spring 2022. Gulfport City Council approved the project and work began last July.

Workers removed and replaced two shifted foundation columns on

the south side of the building, Nicholls said. They also repaired the south load-bearing wall.

Crews removed a large amount of drywall and siding. Workers replaced all rotted wood and corroded fasteners, and also sealed and weather-proofed the building, according to Nicholls.

A crew painted the entire building. Now, Scout Hall is ready for regular functions.

“It’s good for birthday parties. We’ve hosted small-scale weddings

there, and community meetings,” said Shea. “The booking process is the same as the 49th Street Neighborhood Center. Residents and nonresidents can make that building theirs for an event via the Cultural Facilities front office.”

City officials already operate satellite programs out of the Multipurpose Senior Center, Shea added. He is ready for the facility’s calendar to fill up.

“We’re excited to start programming events again inside Scout Hall.”

Gulfport’s Scout Hall is back!

Comedy, Guitars, and a LGBTQ+ Fundraiser Stay

up to Date With Businesses in Pinellas

By The Gabber Staff

Love Food Central Donates

During Pride month, businesses tend to throw up a Pride flag on a wall and call it allyship. St. Pete’s Love Food Central decided to do more for the LGBTQ+ community this June.

Jerrick Santoyo, a head chef at Love Food Central, said the restaurant hopes to donate $5,000 to “projects that fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ and non-binary individuals, such as the Trevor Project and National Center for Trans Equality.”

2057 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.

St. Pete Beach Guitars

This is a guitar store with some history. For more than 25 years, Stevie B. has owned and operated five guitar stores in Florida, specializing in buying and selling quality new and used guitars. They make those all-important repairs, too. They also carry amps and pedals. These guys know their guitars.

St. Pete Guitars, 6630 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 727-318-0986, www.stpeteguitars.com

Sunshine City Comedy Club

Now under new ownership, the club’s in the same place as other

comedy clubs that came before it. Sunshine City is in the strip mall next to the old Silas Dent’s, across

from the Sirata Hotel. If you want live comedy, there is nothing else like this in Pinellas. Come see headliner JJ Curry on Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10.

5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 727-435-0327, www.sunshinecitycomedyclub.com

Pen Pal Adventure Book

Shelly Straub created this book for Airbnb guests to be able to hold onto their memories and record their adventures while on vacation.

The “Host Behind the House” series on the same website begins with the intent to help these guests and neighbors understand who their hosts really are.

With positive intentions, this helps residents receive more information about locations nearby.

Pen Pal Adventure Book, Gulfport. 315-751-8255. www.penpaladventurebook.com

Love Food Central hopes to donate $5,000 during Pride month to LGBTQ+ organizations.

gabberlife

It’s All Rainbows Over Here Gulfport’s Third Annual Pride Fest

By Cameron Healy

People dressed in their best Pride and rainbow fits covered Beach Boulevard in Gulfport. On June 3, the city celebrated its third annual Gulfport Pride festival.

From 10 a.m.-8 p.m., this Pride event had activities for everyone. The LGBTQ Resource Center of the Gulfport Public Library featured art from the ArtOUT exhibit. Neptune Grill hosted a drag bunch with drag queen Brianna Summers. The Gulfport Gecko Marching Band performed in front of Caddy’s.

The City blocked off Beach Boulevard for the festival. Gulfport Pride had a market full of LGBTQ+-friendly small businesses and food trucks in the middle of the road.

The festival held more than 130 local vendors and two live music stages on either end of Beach Boulevard.

By Siri’s Gourmet Burgers & Pizza, performers at the north stage included Solar Flair, Laura Shepard, Mitch Rolling, and Hot Tonic. By Tommy’s Hideaway, performers at the south stage included Greg Woodruff, Rum Syndicate, and DJ Jayson.

Even local businesses took initia-

tive by decorating storefronts with Pride-inspired decor. Gulfport Realty had a blow up rainbow surrounded by Pride flags.

It was almost impossible to walk down the street without seeing a Pride flag.

Overall, the festival intended to raise money and awareness for the City of Gulfport’s library’s LGBTQ Re-

source Center. The festival’s website states, “Gulfport Florida Pride is a fundraiser for the Gulfport Library’s award-winning LGBTQ Resource Center, which is committed to promoting awareness of the diversity of experiences, contributions and needs of people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and/or queer.”

Natasha Young dressed in all rainbow for the third annual Gulfport Pride.

CAMERON HEALY

Iguanas, Leafblowers, and Banned Books Summer

Reading for Everyone

By Amanda Hagood

It’s been a tough year for books. Book bans surged across the nation’s school districts in fall 2022, taking 847 unique titles off the school shelves in 37 different states, according to PEN America’s Banned in the USA report. Texas and Florida districts have led the way in these campaigns, banning or removing 438 and 357 books, respectively. Maybe it’s not surprising, then, that St. Pete booksellers put banned books at the top of their summer reading recommendation list.

This particularly applies to young adult readers, whose category occupies a whopping 56% of all titles banned this year. Some recent challenged titles include Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe (2019), The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (2017), and All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson (2020). Several classics have

also come under fire, including Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye (1970) and Sherman Alexie’s The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (2007).

Here are some more fun and fascinating recommendations to help you while away those hot summer days:

Vacationing After COVID

South Pasadena bookseller Nancy Alloy suggests Emily Henry’s Happy Place (Berkley, 2023) as her top pick for this summer’s leisure reading. After all, a vacation — specifically, a college pals (and plus-ones) reunion long delayed by COVID — is the impetus for the book’s plot. But real life nags like a mosquito on the porch of the lovely Maine summer home the friends have retreated to: Even though they’ve just broken up, leading lady Harriet and

ex-fiancé Wyn resolve to pretend they haven’t. Why spoil the celebration for everyone else? Call it a postCOVID love story: a bittersweet book that asks how we begin to recover from losses both intimate and friendimate.

EGOT to Hear This

It’s hard to beat a good memoir, and for that category, Alloy recommends Viola Davis’s candid autobiography, Finding Me (HarperOne, 2022). The EGOT-winning actor has made bold strides she has made in changing the way Hollywood imagines Black women on screen, but her fame has not come easily or quickly. Her book begins with a childhood marked by poverty, domesReading continued on page 18

Looking for a summer read, or maybe banned books? St. Pete bookstores have both. Check out some summer reading suggestions, and some of the 847 banned books in U.S. school districts over the past year.

AMANDA HAGOOD

Reading continued from page 17 tic violence, and racism, but also demonstrates how this remarkable artist channeled this and more into a steely persistence and some incredible performances. A great pick whether you’re an aspiring thespian or just enjoy excellent life writing.

Hot Coffee, Loud Leaf-Blowers, and Cool Iguanas

For those in a sleuthing frame of mind, Alloy suggests two titles. Tara Lush’s newest cozy mystery Live and Let Grind (Crooked Lane, 2022) takes readers back to the quirky, highly-caffeinated world of Devil’s Beach, Florida. It features consummately Florida conflict: a noisy neighbor, found dead when his leaf-blower explodes. Worse still, coffee queen Lana Lewis’ best friend (and top barista), Erika, is the prime suspect. As with all of Lush’s Coffee Lovers Mysteries, the field is loaded with boldly sketched characters, plausible (if a little wacky) motives, and plenty of fun conundrums to puzzle out.

In the slightly-less-cozy category falls Tim Dorsey’s newest installment (this takes us to 26!) in the Serge Storms series, The Maltese Iguana (William Morrow, 2023). The lovable serial killer and his perpetually stoned sidekick, Coleman, are COVID-vaccinated and ready to lead their condo neighbors on their new Florida Keys Underbelly Spy Tours enterprise. They also stalk greedy toilet paper scalpers, all with Colemans’ new iguana-festooned bong in tow. Meanwhile, a botched CIA operation in Honduras leads a local police officer and a reporter right into Serge’s chaotic path. What will happen when they collide? Best guess: zany antics (and plenty of violence and profanity).

Books, 2022) from veteran kids’ science writer Jennifer Swanson. As sustainability experts know, the concept of footprints can be literal, as in the marks our feet leave behind, or metaphorical, as a way to describe our ecological impact on the planet. Swanson’s book explores both through a short, evocative prose poem backed by gorgeous full-page photography spreads. The book will spark many different conversations, depending on the age of the reader. While younger children may relish the unique images of a galloping rhino or rover tire tracks on Mars, older children are likely to recognize the images of human change-makers like Rosa Parks or Greta Thunberg.

And Now for Something Completely Different

Underbelly Spy Tours enterprise.

Leave a Good Impression

Looking for a great new kids’ book?

Try Florida Book Award winner Footprints Across the Planet (Reycraft

If your escapist-reading longings are steering you to toward the speculative, pick up The Network Effect (Tor.com, 2020) by Martha Wells. The novel centers on Murderbot, a self-titled part-robot, part-human construct who breaks free of its programming, flees its post as a Security Unit, and now pursues its favorite pastime — watching soap operas. In The Network Effect, the first novel in a series of short stories and novellas featuring Murderbot, the eponymous cyborg and its human companions get mysteriously kidnapped in the midst of a research mission. While finding the culprit takes up much of the actual plot, it is equally entertaining to watch the way Wells handles her unique protagonist, as it begins to develop, much to its own chagrin, emotions, relationships, and other “icky” human characteristics. Ever wished folks would just leave you alone with your Netflix? You may be more like Muderbot than you think.

Wherever your reading adventures take you this summer, here’s wishing you happy trails!

If the entire human race were mixed we would all be the gorgeous golden color of Polynesians.

The lovable serial killer and his perpetually stoned sidekick, Coleman, are COVID-vaccinated and ready to lead their condo neighbors on their new Florida Keys

Taco Fiasco

Sunrise Tacos Misses the Mark

By Morgan Banno

Mix and match all the tacos you want.

Florida isn’t exactly known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. When I think of tacos and carnitas, El Paso comes to mind, not the Gulf of Mexico. We locals all have our go-tos, but Sunrise Tacos may be one to skip for now.

In late February, Sunrise Tacos opened a second location off popular Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach. Taking up residence in the old Gayle’s Diner building, and this new eatery’s dishes up nosh that barely supersede Taco Bell. Call me harsh, but it’s true.

I was intrigued by the concept of breakfast tacos and coffee served all day. After all, who wouldn’t want to throw down on Eggs a la Mexicana with a hot cup of Joffrey’s coffee? But the menu is mismatched with tacos, protein smoothies, and açaí bowls.

Sunrise Tacos offers various breakfast tacos with combinations of chorizo, eggs, beans and potato. For lunch, choose from eight different taco proteins, ranging from barbacoa and el pastor to baja fish and smoked beef brisket ($4.25 each).

You Get What You Pay For

I opted for a mix-and-match selection of three lunch tacos with ground

beef, veggie, and shredded chicken on homemade corn tortillas, with tableside guacamole and chips. My tacos were presented on a dirty holder, leaking their fixings on the bar. This should have been my red flag.

The ground beef, while a hefty portion, was dry and lackluster. My veggie taco consisted of lukewarm refried beans that in no way tasted homemade as described. But the shredded chicken taco, in a tangy lime torti-

lla, was pretty decent, albeit served with gummy queso. The guacamole, though clearly made in-house, was not “tableside” as advertised. However, it did arrive with a basket of warm tortilla chips. Thumbs up for that.

About the Condiments

The most disturbing part of my Mexican fiesta was the triad of condiments brought in squeeze bottles. Not only was I unable to squeeze out any of the rojo or verde sauces (annoying) but the sour cream was outdated by six days per the bottle’s label. A tip for restaurants who serve condiments pre-proportioned and dated: please adhere to Department of Health chapter 14E-11 for Food Hygiene, subsection 64E-11.004(14): “Food shall be discarded if not sold or served within seven days of preparation.”

Future diners may want to explore one of the fruit smoothies ($7) or an açaí bowl ($14) with add-ons like CBD, turmeric, beetroot, or a “green superfood blend” (for an additional charge.) But I called it quits after the taco fiasco.

Bottom line: Sunrise Tacos leaves much to be desired when it comes to Mexican cuisine on the beaches.

Sunrise Tacos, 455 75th Ave., St. Pete Beach. 727-954-5978

MORGAN BANNO

Photos by Cameron Healy

Abby Eskenas, Massachusetts: “Two.”

Cassie Tymann, Stratham, NH: “Three.”

things to do

Hammock Fest, Youth Pride, and Yappy Hour

All Month

ArtOUT Immerse yourself in the world of Pride through art. This year’s ArtOUT theme is “emergence.” This international juried art show is a signature pride program from Gulfport’s LGBTQ Resource Center. For the month of June, you can find art onsite at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, the Gulfport Public Library, and online. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1074, artoutfestival.wixsite.com

Thursday, June 8-Sunday, June 18

Stop Kiss The Gulfport Community Players presents its latest production of  Stop Kiss. This play by Diana Son tells the story of love blossoming from a friendship between two women who have never had a same-sex relationship. After sharing a kiss in public, one of them experiences a traumatic physical attack and she falls into a coma. Tickets available online; cash only for tickets purchased in-person.

Catherine A. Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. $20-25. 727893-1070, gulfportcommunityplayers. org

Thursday, June 8

Yappy Hour Drink up at Yappy Hour! Purchase a PAW-Beer and every dollar spent goes to Pet Pal Animal Shelter. This dog-friendly event will have adoptable dogs and Pet Pal swag. Stop by for drinks, dogs, and to learn more about how to help the shelter.  Pinellas Ale Works, 1962 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 6-8 p.m. 727235-0970, petpalanimalshelter.com

Paper & Pints Coasters Drop in for an introduction to letterpress printing at Paper & Pints night. Print a set of coasters that says “Cheers Queers” with an antique printing press from the 1890s. Enjoy a craft

beer or beverage while you create a cute set of LGBTQ+ coasters.Check out the shop and socialize over drinks. Print St. Pete, 4903 8th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 7-9 p.m. $15. 727235-6734, printstpete.org

LGBTQ Open Mic Gulfport’s LGBTQ Resource Center named Nathalie Marcelin the 2022-23 BranchOut Scholar. Hear from Marcelin as she hosts this open mic. Marcelin will share a poem, discuss the state of Florida’s education system, and the importance of queer expression. The open mic’s theme is “queer joy as resistance.”.  Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.us

Saturday, June 10

Youth Pride & Family Day For Pride month, make sure to hang out at St. Pete’s Youth Pride and Family Day. LGBTQ youth and families, and allies, come together for a day full of family fun. This special Pride event offers family oriented activities, LGBTQ+-friendly vendors, a youth lounge, and live music performances throughout the event.  North Straub Park, 400 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 727-893-7441, eventeny.com

The Market Marie  Every second Saturday, spend the day at The Market Marie. Browse the dozens of handcrafted items from more than 100

vendors. Eat and buy fresh produce and baked goods. Listen to live music from Tampa Bay musicians. Support your local small business makers.  600 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. themarketculture.com

Some Blue Art Explore the art of “something blue.” Something Blue is an immersive interdisciplinary art exhibition revealing the raw human state of being through the color blue. Check out the blue work of international artists featuring, Ethan Barbee, Jenny Bleackley, Alice Ferrulo, Gia Porras-Ferrulo, Elvia Hill, Victoria Jorgensen, Bailey Lord, and Mel Saraceno. Warehouse Arts District, 515 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 5-9 p.m. 727-256-0821, warehouseartsdistrict.org

Hammock Fest Imagine hammocking by the water with friends while the sun sets. Oh wait — that’s Hammock Fest! Enjoy a killer hammock hangout and meet some new hammock buddies. Listen to live music while you sway back and forth. Try great food and drinks from St. Pete breweries and food trucks.  All the proceeds go to charities in the Tampa Bay area. St. Pete Pier, 600 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. 6-10 p.m. $15-50. 813-452-9799, eventbrite.com

Monday, June 12

Trevor Noah Class Did you ever watch “The Daily Show” with Trevor

Bring your hammock for Hammock Fest on June 10.

HAMMOCK FEST

Noah? Dive deeper into the life of Trevor Noah with this Zoom course discussing his influential career. Learn about his upbringing, examine his evolution of comedy through his seven-year run on “The Daily Show,” and his hopeful future. Sign up online to receive link. Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. $10-25. 727864-7600, ce.olli.eckerd.edu

Tuesday, June 13

Get to Drawing! Sign up for Jay’s intermediate’s pencil drawing course. For three weeks, you’ll learn the insand-outs on how to up your pencil drawing game. All you’ll need is a sketch pad, pencils, a sharpener, and your creative juices to create some amazing art. You must register before the first session. Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10-11 a.m. 727-893-1231, mygulfport.us

Beach Beer Run It’s the second Tuesday of the month — do you know what this means? It’s time for

Why veriMED Health Group?

the monthly beach beer run! Everyone is welcome. This is for walkers, runners, joggers, and skippers. After the three-mile run, stick around for a cold beer. Socialize with your fellow beer runners over food and brews. Mastry’s Brewing Co., 7701 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach. 6 p.m. 727-800-5043, stpeterunningco.com

Wednesday, June 14

Kids Carving Class Teach ‘em young! This summer have your kids participate in a young chef food carving class. Reserve your child’s spot to learn how to eat healthy through creating fun fruit and vegetable displays of animals and flowers. Each mini chef receives their own safety chef knives and cutting mats to take home. Email dawesdistributionllc@gmail.com to sign up kids ages 8-12. Barbara’s Kitchen Jams, 12508 Starkey Road, Largo. 1-3 p.m. $40. barbaraskitchenjams.com

History & Cocktails  This one is for the history and cocktail lovers out there! If you missed Cathy Salustri and Joey Vars’ discussion about Florida’s still-in-operation historic hotels, here’s your chance to hear all about it. This two-part course teaches you about all the still-operating historic hotels throughout Florida over classic Floridian cocktails and light snacks. Sign up online.  Eckerd College, CEC 114,  4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 6-7:30 p.m. $30-50. 727-864-7600, ce.olli. eckerd.edu

Taco Cooking Class Taco Tuesday will never be the same after taking this homemade taco cooking class. Learn how to make the best tacos, salsas, and guacamole from scratch with Chef Maurice. This fun, interactive class teaches you new recipes you can show off to your friends and family. Register ahead of time online.   Mastry’s Brewing Co., 7701 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach. 6 p.m. $55. 727202-8045, classpop.com

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

obituaries

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net

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

Donna Mae Hardenberg

Feb. 27, 1936-May 12, 2023

An alumnus of Hope College, taught for 30 years, befriending countless students while introducing them to the writers, poets, playwrights, and musicians she loved. In the Byron school system, she served as an English teacher, coach, librarian, play director, faculty leader — she did it all. She was something of a Renaissance woman with many talents and interests — pie maker, played softball, tennis, fished, golfed and designed stained glass. Her stained glass windows can be found in the Beaver Island Christian Church. She loved animals, especially cats and buffaloes, and was an avid birder with a long life list.

Donna was pre-deceased by her parents, a brother in childhood, and her life partner of 27 years, JoAnn Westrick. She is survived by her brother Bruce and his wife Barbara of Punta Gorda, her niece Suzanne of Charleston, SC, her nephew David of Chicago, JoAnn Westrick’s son Chris and his family of Ohio, and a large circle of friends from Beaver Island, Lansing, MI, and Gulfport.

Donna dedicated her body to the medical schools of Florida for use in medical research and education. Should you wish, Donna’s friends are invited to send contributions in her memory to Saving Birds Through Habitat, 5010 N. Putnam Road, Omena, MI 49674 (savingbirds.org) or to the Beaver Island Music Festival, PO Box 23, Beaver Island, MI 49782 (bimf.net).

SANDY GONZALEZ

X Marks the Spot  Treasure is ready to be someone’s pot of gold. When she showed up at the shelter, she was a single mom with two kids. After some TLC in foster care, she is a happy and healthy girl who loves to play fetch. She enjoys good company, but would prefer to be the only pet where she can be the center of attention.

Green-Eyed Niamh First off – how do you say her name? It’s pronounced “Neeve.” Her name is Irish since the shelter received her on St. Patrick’s Day. Niamh is a 10 years old and one of the shelter’s longest residents. She is a calm and unproblematic kitty who gets along with other cats. She may take a moment to warm up, but she enjoys being held and seeks affection once she knows you.

All pets spayed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and dewormed. Friends of Strays, 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily for adoptions. For all of our adoptable pets, visit: friendsofstrays.org

Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area. Family owned and local business. Providing in-home personal aid companion care, after surgery care, 24-hour care, dementia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472. hwcg.com/StPete-Beach AHCA #299995153

HANDS N HEART IN HOME CARE LLC

If you or your loved one is looking for care, I can provide the best compassionate care you need, in the home of your comfort. Meal prep, feeding, bed/bath/shower, meds reminder, light housekeeping, short errands, etc. Call 727-481-4722 or 727-6232410. www.handsandheart.com

Cleaning/Housekeeping

SHINE DESIGN CLEANING

Ready for a helping hand? You deserve a break! Reliable, dependable, & trusted. Call CJ: 813-370-5111. Let me make your life easier!

Computer Service

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

Gulfport Computer Repair

727-345-3108

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

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: 727798-2075.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & REPAIRS

Custom concrete patios, driveway extensions,custom steps, & all types of concrete repairs. Storage Building slabs. Over 35 years experience. Call Mark for a free estimate: 813859-2023.

Handy Person

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL HANDYMAN Bathrooms, kitchens. drywall, painting, custom high-end finishing. Any job undertaken, honest pricing. Insured, reliable. 347-973-0814.

HANDYMAN SERVICES Electrical: ceiling fans, lighting, switches, outlets, and other devices. Plumbing: faucets, valves, and other fixtures. Door locks and cabinet hardware. Flips to problem solving and rental punch lists. References upon request. David: 727851-7548.

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.

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 727768-5140.

THE TRASH QUEEN 10% SPRING CLEANING DISCOUNT

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.

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

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

DARCY ROOFING LLC

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

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

Lawn care and service. Weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.

Residential & Commercial landscape installs, sod, lighting, large tree/palm installs, and all your landscaping needs.

Servicing Gulfport, Pasadena and St Petersburg Areas.

Contact junglegirlslandscaping@gmail.com

Ph. 727-947-2423

www.junglegirlslandscaping.com

James Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

Heating & Air Conditioning

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

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.

Plumbing

PROFLO PLUMBING

Marine Repair

727-902-7077

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

Professional Services

HURRICANE SEASON SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

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

727-238-5683

Miscellaneous Service

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.

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.

LOOKING FOR A GULFPORT TRAVEL AGENT?

I’m Tess of Tess Davis Travel. I am an experienced Travel Advisor and Cruise Planners franchise owner in Gulfport, and I love to plan vacations! Allow me to help with your next trip/ vacation. Please visit www.tessdavistravel. com now to get started.

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.

Trees Cleaned • Bobcat Services

Stump Grinding • Hazardous Limb Removal

Storm and Roof Protection • Insured

727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

LIC#0700008985

SKIP’S MOVING, PICKUP, & DELIVERY

Have 14 foot box truck, willing to help. I’m the guy who moves everybody in and out of Town Shores. Available Monday thru Sunday. Call: 727-320-3297.

Painting

BYRON JOHNSON PAINTING PLUS, INC.

Time to refresh the interior/exterior of your house or business? High quality, professional painting. Free estimates. Lic.#9894. Insured. 727-365-1088.

License

KITCHEN HELP NEEDED - MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE

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

SALES POSITIONS AVAILABLE

General

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

Yard / Garage Sale

ESTATE SALE - ALL MUST GO Fri., 6/9 & Sat., 6/10. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 230 Pasadena Ave S. (take Burlington off Pasadena). Furniture, kitchen, china cabinets, antiques, crafting supplies, silk flowers, ribbons, vases, tools, ladders, & more.

YARD SALE Sat., 6/10 & Sun., 6/11. Barcelona Apts., 2831 Dupont St. S. Back of building, facing 58th Street. Variety of goods.

Real Estate For Sale FOR SALE: TOWN SHORES CONDO

This beautiful one bedroom condo in the Chatham building in the Town Shores of Gulfport community offers large sun filled rooms and an open kitchen. Located blocks from downtown Gulfport, restaurants and community center. Lipply RE, Bart Hanchey at 727-424-8881.

• Sales Director & Part-time

• Must be a self-starter

• Make cold calls in person

• Amiable personality

• Familiar with Mac and Google docs

Contact: barry@thegabber.com

GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Barre Central is a beautiful, unique boutique studio looking to add some classes to our schedule. Looking for enthusiastic, energetic group fitness instructors that love teaching! Evening preferred. Come join our amazing team. Call 727-344-6641 or email barrecentral@yahoo.com. For

NEW YORK STYLE HOT DOG CART

All pans, utensils, umbrella, sidewalk flag sign,. $500 or best offer. Calls only - 727430-3550.

SMALL TOOL SALE By appointment only. Cash sales. Call 302-242-8158.

Furnished Rentals

WINTER RENTALS IN GULFPORT

Garden Apartment, 1 Bed/1 Bath, and attached House 2 Bed/1 Bath. Both fully furnished and nicely decorated, all utilities included in rent. Two month minimum rental. $3,200 and $4,000 a month plus cleaning and tax. Call 781-325-5965 for details.

SHORE BLVD. RENTAL2BR/1BA

Beautiful second story waterfront apartment. 2bd/1ba. Wraparound balcony. Furnished. On-site laundry, utilities included. Small, non-shedding dog welcome. Stroll to Gulfport Beach and Art District. 3-6 month lease; $3,400/month, available June 12. Call 813-928-5609 for details.

CLINTON ST. RENTAL - 2BR/2BA

Charming 2bd/2ba house with small office. Hardwood floors, brick courtyard. Stroll to Gulfport Beach and Art District. Close to Stetson Law. Small, non-shedding dog ok. Annual lease $2,800 plus most utilities. Available June 1st. Call 813-928-5609 for details.

SHORE BLVD. RENTAL1BR/1BA

Charming 1bd/1ba waterfront apartment. Patio. Furnished. On-site laundry, utilities included. Stroll to Gulfport Beach and Art District. 3 - 5 1/2 month lease, $2,500/ month, available June 12. Call 813-9285609 for details.

Real Estate Sales

5665 Shore Blvd. S. (Waterfront District)

This four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home, built in 1999, has 3,182 square feet. It listed for $1,700,000 and sold for $1,550,000.

Gulfport Real Estate

5719 23rd Ave. S. (Waterfront District)

This two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1952, has 1,135 square feet. It listed for $520,000 but sold for $542,000.

5814 17th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1954, has 1,763 square feet. It listed for $460,000 and sold for $465,000.

2818 Tifton St. S. (Marina)

This two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1962, has 852 square feet. It listed for $429,000 and sold for $425,000.

5838 25th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home, built in 1952, has 1,384 square feet. It listed for $399,900 and sold for $349,000.

5705 15th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1958, has 1,050 square feet. It listed for $369,000 and sold for $359,000.

5025 9th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This four-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1972, has 1,258 square feet. It listed for $349,900 and sold for $357,000.