The Gabber: June 22, 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

Assistant Editor Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

News & Politics

Monroe Roark monroe@thegabber.com

Food & Dining

Morgan Banno

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

Owners

Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper

Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

WinWay

I read Matt Carr’s [response to the] letter to the editor and found his response very unprofessional. Snide remarks: “thank you for all the free press, lots of new WinWay signs going up to give you additional content for your paper, please be on the lookout for our “coming soon” signs.” He also said “WinWay Homes has never requested a variance for any of our homes.” That is technically true, but  City staff reports that the company has asked about the possibility on more than one occasion. When asked why he is cutting down all the trees on the lot in question, his response was “because I can.” I think we should all talk to our neighbors and newcomers about this man, his company, and his attitude in this very small town. —April Arnesen, Gulfport resident for 10 years

After reading Matt Carr’s response to “WinWay Homes: a Runaway Train,” I am sorry this man is allowed to do business in Gulfport. Here is a man who says, “because I can,” when asked why he’s going to cut down an ancient oak tree. Sure, he can. And the residents of Gulfport can decide not to buy any homes built by WinWay. What we need to do is let everyone who is new to Gulfport know about this man’s attitude. Talk to friends; we are the people. –Steve Smith, Gulfport

nity, with its historic Gulfport Casino, beach volleyball, artisanal shops, and local restaurants. Not to mention its quirky, kitschy, small-town charm, and its inclusive community. Once Mr. Carr and his ilk succeed in turning Gulfport into banal, generic America, there will be no draw for people to move here or for tourists to visit here. I suggest Mr. Carr build himself a nice generic subdivision somewhere far away from here rather than bulldozing what we have with no regard to the essence of what he is destroying. Gulfport’s citizenry should, indeed, organize to protect their town through regulations, zoning, etc. —Gillian

Butler, Gulfport resident and taxpayer

Million Dollar Dog Park

Thank you for the article on our Million Dollar Dog Park!! I sincerely appreciate the help in educating our residents about what the City is and isn’t doing. —Bill

Howell, Madeira Beach

Gulfport Welcome Wagon

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.

First, I would like to applaud Mr. Carr for his capitalist candor: “Because I can.” No trickle-down blather for him! It goes without saying that WinWay homes are oversized for Gulfport and make no nod to the aesthetics of the community. Indeed, they make no nod to aesthetics whatsoever. His disregard for the environment is particularly disturbing. Gulfport’s green canopy of historic live oaks is one off its singular treasures. People come to Gulfport from all over the U.S. and even further afield: they come because it feels like an old-time beach commu-

I attended the April 10 Gulfport on the Edge gathering at the Casino. I was at the Environmental Issues table, so didn’t have the chance to make suggestions about Notifications for new Gulfport residents. Information on the many resources available in Gulfport seems to be readily available to new residents but apparently there is a lack of same about common practices that might ease transition for newcomers. Being a Gulfport resident for 20+ years, I’m not aware of any kind of “welcome wagon” pack for newbies, but couldn’t an information sheet get automatically sent with the first utility bill new residents receive This sheet could state the days of garbage, recycling, and yard waste pickup for that specific address, since days vary according to location. It should also indicate that residents are responsible for

“Holy and Good” Pinellas Clergy Unite to Support LGBTQ+ People

As clergy in Pinellas County, we joyfully affirm that our congregations are committed to affirming and welcoming spirituality and faith life.

Pride month, where communities across the country honor peoples including two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual, is commemorated in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Greenwich Village in Manhattan. Instead of shame, the Stonewall Uprising chose defiance against oppressive social norms that denied the image of the Holy in each person, norms perpetrated, in many cases, historically by our own faith traditions.

Each of our faith traditions has wrestled with legacies of perpetuating homophobia, transphobia and anti-LGBTQIA+ prejudice, and we come forward to repent.

We ask forgiveness for the ways in which our traditions have isolated, hurt and harmed LGBTQIA+ siblings. We pledge to foster houses of worship that are allies and partners for transformation and welcome in our culture.

We affirm today that all genders and sexual orientations are whole, holy, and good.

We are religious leaders in town and we are in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ families and individuals.

Even as we each represent different theological traditions and religious peoples, we all affirm the dignity of the human person, the transforming power of love, and the depth of hope in community.

We decry venomous transphobia, homophobia, and indifference — whether on cable news, social media or our own county. We decry the compounding effect of oppression against LGBTQIA+ persons of color.  We decry the laws our state has passed which criminalize trans Floridians, denying them needed health care, falsely labeling them child abusers, even denying them

bathroom access.

We invite all members of our community to seek love, practice kindness, to side against bigotry and prejudice, and to ally and partner for welcome and solidarity.

Our LGBTQIA+ siblings have suffered too much and face too many threats to their dignity and livelihood. We say: no more.

Let’s make our county — as people of faith and good will — a place of welcome, care and inclusion.

Happy Pride month,

Rev. Ben Atherton-Zeman, Unitarian Universalist Church of St. Petersburg

Rev. Lee Hall-Perkins, Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, Clearwater

Rev. Kimberley Harrell, The New

Thought CommUNITY of Gulfport Florida

Rev. Amy Kindred, Unitarian Universalists of Clearwater

Rabbi Joshua Lobel, Temple B’nai Israel, Clearwater

Rev. Dr. Guillermo Márquez-Sterling, Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church, UCC

Rev. Linda McLeod, Unity on The Path Retreat Ministry, St. Petersburg

Rev. Andy Oliver, Allendale United Methodist Church

Rev. Tracey Quillen, Unity of Palm Harbor

Rev Jon Scott, First Unity Spiritual Campus of Saint Petersburg Florida

Rev. Kristina Spaude, Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs

Rev. Kim P. Wells, Lakewood United Church of Christ, St. Petersburg

These Pinellas clergy sent a statement of support for Pride Month. Here’s which churches open their doors — and hearts — to LGBTQ+ people.

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Gulfport Council Approvals: Library, Personnel Expenditures Looking To Keep Key Positions Staffed

By Monroe Roark

Gulfport City Council approved up to $35,000 for the purchase of library materials. The vote came at the June 6 meeting.

The City will use a state contract and retain Baker & Taylor as the vendor. This arrangement means a discount anywhere from 7.5% to 41% on some titles, according to City officials.

After the vote, Vice Mayor Paul Ray (Ward III) said, “Remember to be careful what books you order.” It was a light-hearted reference to controversies surrounding what books some people think should not be available in libraries.

“I hope we get some of the banned books back,” said Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I).

In other business, the council voted to retain Robert Half International, Inc. for professional staffing services. The action helps the City meet a critical need – qualified personnel in key positions – City Manager Jim O’Reilly said.

“This is to help us continue to operate,” said O’Reilly. “We’ve seen changes in our ability to recruit individuals.”

He noted that other cities also have difficulties in this area.

“The City of Clearwater has, I believe, 200 vacancies,” he said.

According to officials, Gulfport is experiencing staffing shortages and retention challenges. That includes the retirement of many long-term employees at an accelerated rate. This is a national issue, as illustrated by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing more than 47 million Americans voluntarily quit their jobs in 2021. That social phenomenon is referred to as the “Great Resignation.”

Some departments have more pressing needs because of new policies established in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as open records requests in the city being as numerous as ever if not more so.

O’Reilly told the council that the police department is having more success of late, now down to just two vacancies. Citywide, however, it remains a critical issue.

“We just recently had a situation where a long-term employee retired and promoted another individual to code enforcement. We are seeing changeovers in staffing,” he said. “To keep the operation running, it is necessary for us to have certain individuals. We have clearly outlined what we need to do to continue operating on a daily basis. This is to offset until we can fully staff and train the individuals necessary. It is a common practice.”

The City already offsets staffing challenges by using contracted workers or agencies when needed.

This has happened in areas ranging from sanitation to community development. It helps “maintain the high level of personal services grown accustomed to by the city’s residents from the respective departments,” officials said.

The council approved up to $60,000 on this contract. Funding will come from cost savings due to vacant positions.

“This is not because people have quit,” Ray emphasized. “This is mostly that we have elevated other people and some people have retired. We are just trying to fill those positions.”

The vote was 4-1, with April Thanos voting no. She said she preferred to start with a smaller dollar figure and increase it later if necessary.

Recent Gulfport Council approvals include book purchases for the library.

MONROE ROARK

Two New Promotions for Gulfport Fire Rescue Captain, Lieutenant Positions Filled

By Monroe Roark

Gulfport Fire and Rescue Chief Rene Fernandez presented two newly promoted officers to the public at the Gulfport City Council’s June 6 meeting.

Lt. Timothy Burton achieved the rank of captain. Firefighter/paramedic Michael Barber achieved the rank of lieutenant.

As is customary on such occasions, Fernandez introduced each one and outlined their accomplishments. Each man’s wife performed the ceremonial pinning that depicts the new rank.

“Both of these men are well-deserving of their promotions,” said

FOOD & CRAFT BEER

Fernandez. “They have both been great role models for our department. Not only have they found a way to balance life, family and work; they have also continued to further their education throughout their time in our department.”

Barber started with Gulfport as a firefighter-paramedic in 2016. During his tenure, he became a driver-operator and has “countless hours of training as an active lieutenant for our city,” according to Fernandez.

He also earned an associate’s degree as well as a number of certifi-

cates, including State Fire Officer 1, State Fire Officer 2, State Driver-Operator, State Fire Safety Inspector, State Instructor 2, and American Heart CPR instructor.

Burton has also continued his education while working for Gulfport, which he has done since 2010. He obtained an associate’s degree and became a driver-operator, earning state certificates as a Fire Officer 1, Fire Officer 2, and Instructor 1. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2020. Barber’s wife and daughter participated in the pinning ceremony, as did Burton’s wife and son.

Gulfport Fire Rescue Chief Rene Fernandez, center, stands between the families of Capt. Timothy Burton, left, and Lt. Michael Barber.

MONROE ROARK

Getting Ready for Life This Nonprofit Helps Teens Aging Out of Foster Care

By Amanda Hagood

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, about 20,000 youth in the United States age out of the foster care system every year. Like many 18-to-21-year-olds, they navigate significant transitions in education, employment, and living independently. But unlike many of their peers, they often do so without the educational, financial, or emotional support that comes from a permanent home and family situation. The results can be devastating. Young adults exiting foster care are at risk of homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse, and early childbearing. They often struggle to attain educational outcomes such as a high school diploma, GED,

or even access to higher education.

“For many years this was a population that had been forgotten,” says Kathy Mize, CEO of Ready For Life, Inc., a Pinellas-based organization that serves foster youth transitioning into adulthood. She hopes, however, that this is beginning to change.

Identifying the Barriers

Founded in 2009 RFL aims to provide the support, resources, and guidance their clients need to successfully transition to adulthood.

“The only way we could do that,” says Mize, “was to listen to them.” Former foster youth serve on the

board and on the staff of the organization, helping to identify barriers this population faces and informing the services and programs Ready for Life offers.

And quite a range of services it is. On any given day, one of the 100150 youth they actively support may come to RFL’s Largo Skill Center in need of housing, legal assistance, or counseling. They might seek a bus pass, clothes to wear to a job interview, or simply a safe place to shower or do laundry. The space reflects this wrap-around approach with a fully functional kitchen, a pantry and store stocked with food and personal care supplies, lockers for securing important documents, and a mini-clinic with a tele-health services. There are also large, comfortable meeting spaces for classes and gatherings.

“Think of anything you might do for your own adult children,” says Michelle Walag, Senior VP of Strategic Partnerships. “That’s what we are up to on any given day.” She can recall everything from helping clients identify their hurricane evacuation zones and nearest shelters to laying out food for their annual Thanksgiving feast.

Community Support

Another critical component of RFL’s model is community buy-in. The organization receives support from some major players in the

A crowd of Ready For Life clients, staff, and volunteers enjoys an annual RFL family tradition — the Thanksgiving Feast.

Tampa Bay Area: To name one example, BayCare sponsors the onsite clinic. And more than 100 volunteers offer their assistance with things such as keeping the pantry stocked, tutoring, serving on committees, or working at fundraising events. According to its 2021-2022 impact statement, RFL received $41,000 worth of volunteer hours and $112,000 in in-kind donations.

One crucial facet of community support, says Walag, is RFL’s mentoring program. Community members commit to at least one year of working directly with an RFL client, building a consistent, supportive relationship that can sometimes blossom into a lasting friendship. Over the years, RFL has matched about 100 mentors and mentees, Walag reports, and many are still close.

Building Trust

The odds RFL youth face are daunting. Some clients, says Walag, have lived in as many as 20 different foster placements by the time they age out. And many have sur-

vived ACEs — adverse childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence within their homes — that can make it challenging to form the kind of relationships on which stable families and steady employment are built.

And yet, many RFL alumni defy these odds. The organization reported in 2022 that 72% of the young adults it served were currently employed. 89% of the young parents it served had custody of their children.

Behind these positive outcomes, says Walag, is both the incredible resilience of her clients and the steady, supportive, often creative process of forming a natural family together — a family these young adults choose, rather than inherit.

How does she know when her clients are ready for life? “The kids start to learn how to trust again. They start to see the choices they can make.”

Interested in getting involved?

Ready for Life will host a Sip & Tour event at the RFL Skill Center in Largo from 5:30 — 7 p.m. on September 28.

A mentee and mentor laugh over a game at Ready for Life’s Skill Center. Ready for Life is a Pinellas-based nonprofit serving youth who are transitioning out of the foster care system.

Trouble in Paradise

St. Pete Beach City Manager Rey Gets Review

By Lisa Leveroni

After the beginning of a performance review for City Manager Alex Rey at the St. Pete Beach City Commission meeting on June 13 and an additional emergency meeting on June 16, the Commission stripped the city manager of  his major responsibilities, pending an investigation by City Attorney Andrew Dickman. The commission asked that Rey do no hiring or firing, no spending (including for items less than $25,000 in expenditures, which typically does not require commission approval), and no interference with employees, either himself or through a third party.

During the June 13 public review, Mayor Adrian Petrila indicated his displeasure with the city manager’s performance as he read from employee comment cards and exit interviews. The mayor cited complaints from city

employees of a “toxic work environment,” which he attributed to Rey. However, some of the city employees attributed this “toxicity” to the divisiveness created between the new mayor and others in St. Pete Beach city government.

Toxic Workplace?

Petrila made a motion for Rey’s “suspension with pay” pending an investigation. The motion died for lack of a second.

In the follow-up emergency meeting June 16, Petrila once again called for Rey’s firing or suspension. Petrila said Rey held a city employee meeting June 14, which the mayor felt the commission’s actions the night before prohibited. Petrila said the commission asked Rey to limit his communication with employees. Rey explained he always held full staff meetings on Wednesday after Tuesday night commission meetings to keep staff informed of current events. Rey said

that he encouraged employees to participate in his review process, “to hold their heads up and participate.”

Recent resignations of two procurement officers and Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, Vincent Tenaglia, have invited more questions about Rey’s performance. Was he responsible for all of these departures?

Aside from HR and personnel problems, there were other issues mentioned with regard to some of Rey’s performance. These include contracts, procurement, permitting, lobbyist designations, city ordinances, and missing the deadline to migrate fire department employees to the state pension plan.

A $20,000 Investigation Begins

By the end of the June 13 commission meeting, Commissioner Chris Marone made a motion to wait 30 days while the city attorney completed an investigation of these claims against Rey. Commissioner Ward Friszowolski said, “I like that idea.”

He added that he thought the city attorney could use some help in this investigatory effort. Commissioners suggested attorney Colleen Flynn, an employment and labor attorney, would make a good fit. The motion to give the investigation 30 days carried. The vote was 4-1, with Mayor Petrila voting no.

At the June 16 meeting, the two attorneys made a presentation as to the scope and structure of their investigation. They also offered a progress report at 30 days, and estimated that it would cost the taxpayers $20,000.

St. Pete Beach City Manager Alex Rey who has been stripped of his responsibilities.

LISA LEVERONI

To Market, To Market...

The Future of Corey Avenue

By Lisa Leveroni

The Sunday Market on Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach has grown into one of the most popular events the beach has seen over the past several years.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, barbecue, arts and crafts, gourmet foods, jewelry, and baked goods are a few of the local delights featured every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the summer).

While this street fair has all the markings of a market bound for marketing history, a bevy of branding controversy bubbles beneath. Who owns this concept? Who created it? Where do all these vendors come from? Who holds the permits? The insurance? The plan? How does this blend of business people converge on Corey Avenue in a peaceful manner every Sunday?

The Sunday Market on Corey was born out of successful  Wednesday markets and weekend street events, such as the Arts and Crafts shows and Seafood Festivals, in the early 2000s.

“The Corey Avenue Business Association (CABA) started the Sunday Market ourselves,” states CABA vice president Yvonne Marcus. Marcus owns Art Expo on Corey. She further explains, “after we ran it ourselves for a period of time, we signed with Tampa Bay Markets in 2014 for five-year and three-year contracts to handle general operations.”

Partners Tiffany Ferrecchia and Greg Barnhill, of Tampa, own Tampa

Sunday Market on St. Pete Beach

Bay Markets. They have run markets around Tampa Bay since 2010.

“We now have 14 market locations around Tampa Bay with more than 80 vendors,” Ferrecchia explained at the St. Pete Beach Commission meeting on June 13. Ferrecchia and Barnhill made an appearance at this meeting to outline their position to the St. Pete Beach Commission, reporting that they have not had a contract with CABA since 2022, when their most recent one expired.

The Sunday Market on Corey Avenue continues to operate, in spite of the expired contract. Representatives from both parties (CABA and Tampa Bay Markets) claim that they have tried to reach out to the other to continue their relationship and sign a new agreement. Both report that they have not heard from the other.

On June 2, 2023, CABA sent a request to meet with Tampa Bay Mar-

kets. The Gabber Newspaper sources report that there has been no known communication between CABA and Tampa Bay Markets at this time.

“Please don’t mess this up! Keep this thing going for our community. It is a marquis event for our city,” St. Pete Beach Vice Mayor Mark Grill pled with the two parties involved.

The Sunday Market still happens every week without a permit from the City of St. Pete Beach. Why? Because CABA holds the permit, while Tampa Bay Markets operates the event. The Tampa Bay Markets and CABA both say they want the market to continue.

This cannot happen in the future without an agreement in conjunction with a permit.

Not everyone cares for the conflict surrounding the Corey Avenue Sunday Market.

LISA LEVERONI

A Day at the Trop: Cheap and Convenient Easy Access to Tampa Bay Rays Games

By Monroe Roark

Going to a Tampa Bay Rays game is easier than ever, especially if you live in Gulfport or one of the beach cities.

I experienced this firsthand recently, although I live farther north in the Pinellas Park-Largo area. It was Thursday, June 8.

I was finishing up my lunch at home around 1 p.m. and turned on the television. To my surprise, the Rays had a home game that very day and the first pitch would be in about 10 minutes.

I thought, “Why not?”

In five minutes I was out the door.

One big advantage for Rays fans right now is the SunRunner. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority express bus that travels on both 1st Avenues in and out of downtown is free until November. That includes the entirety of the Major League Baseball season. It also stops right in front of Tropicana Field.

I found a parallel parking space (free and public) along 1st Avenue South near 49th Street and got on the bus there. No need to pay $20 to park when you don’t have to. From there it was a 10-minute ride to the ballpark.

Many residents in St. Pete Beach, South Pasadena and portions of St. Petersburg can get on the SunRunner within a block or two of home. The same goes for the Central Avenue Trolley, from which you can get on and off at Ferg’s restaurant and walk a block to the game.

Two PSTA bus routes go right through downtown Gulfport, and both of those also run next to Tropicana Field, either on 1st Avenue South or up Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street at the east end of the parking lot.

A big change at the game in recent years involves how you pay. Tropicana Field is a total cash-free zone. Baseball fans have to download the Ballpark app, from which they purchase tickets and other items inside the stadium.

I waited until I got to the ballpark. Instead of searching for the app on

my phone, I used the QR code on the sign outside. It came right up and took about five minutes to set up completely.

The Rays have $10 tickets in left field for every home game. That section is on the third level and called the Party Deck. Of course, with online fees, I wound up paying just over $14. Still a great price.

Once inside, since the game was in progress, it was not difficult to wander into other sections of the stands. The game was far from sold out since it was in the afternoon. However, the energy level was higher than I had experienced in several years. This is certainly due to all of the winning the Rays have done the past two months.

So I was watching the game less than one hour after I turned on the TV at home. I arrived in the bottom of the fourth, just in time to see the home team score three runs and take the lead. At such a low price, I had no problem coming late, espe-

cially since I didn’t miss any of the Rays’ offense.

This was the first game I saw in person under the new pitch clock. While there were some hiccups during spring training, it now goes mostly unnoticed with one big exception. The games are shorter –about two hours and 10 minutes on this day.

Final score: Rays 4, Twins 2.

After the game, I headed back to the SunRunner. It was an extra two blocks of walking to 1st Avenue North to head west. Of course, if that is too much, you can get on the eastbound bus and just ride the loop through downtown.

I reached my car quickly and got back home at 4 p.m.

As the team continues its hugely successful season, a Tampa Bay Rays game could be a monthly occurrence for me if the family’s schedule permits. I doubt it can be done in any other MLB city at this level of convenience and low price.

The view from the third-level Party Deck at Tropicana Field.

MONROE ROARK

A new law takes effect July 1 in Florida that will impact gun ownership and how a person can carry his or her weapon.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 543 into law April 3. It allows Floridians to carry concealed weapons without a government-issued permit, a move that state officials said “strengthens Floridians’ Second Amendment rights.”

“Constitutional Carry is in the books,” DeSantis said at the time of the signing.

Florida is the 26th state to enact Constitutional Carry legislation, according to the governor’s office.

Estimates of the number of gun licenses in Florida range from slightly more than a half-million to more than two million, according to various websites.

Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri supported the legislation. He spoke in favor of it on behalf of the Florida Sheriffs Association, of which he was president in 2019-2020. Various news reports quoted him as saying the bill “protects people’s right to protect themselves.”

However, Gualtieri also has spoken out in the past few weeks to clarify what he said are misconceptions about the bill.

“There is a lot of misinformation about the new permitless carry law and Pinellas County’s law enforcement leaders want to ensure that residents and visitors understand what the law does and what the law doesn’t do,” he said in a video public service announcement on his office’s website.

The sheriff stressed that the new law does not affect open carry, which is still illegal in Florida under most circumstances. You may only openly carry a firearm if you are engaged in or traveling to or from fishing, camping, hunting, or test/target shooting.

The new law also does not change who can purchase a firearm, the waiting period to purchase a firearm, or where a person can carry a firearm, he said.

“Licensed retailers must complete the appropriate paperwork for the buyer and provide the buyer’s information to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement where it is checked in the Florida Crime Information Center and National Crime Information Center,” said Gualtieri. “There is a mandatory three-day waiting period between the purchase and delivery of the firearm.”

Someone who carries a concealed firearm in Florida, even without the permit, must still meet the same criteria outlined in 790.06 of the Florida Statutes, the sheriff said. That means being a citizen of the United States at least 21 years of age without a felony conviction or any other disqualifying condition outlined in the law.

“The new law does not change where you can carry a firearm,” said Gualtieri. “You may not carry a firearm anywhere that a private business or property owner has prohibited them or anywhere outlined in 790.06 of the Florida statutes, including but not limited to schools, any college or university, bars, courthouses, and into government meetings.”

There is no indication that the new carry provision legislation changes any existing state laws regarding gun possession, which is prohibited by citizens who carry medical marijuana cards and has special restrictions for certain professions such as private investigators.

Those who carry concealed firearms must also have on hand a valid form of identification. They must be able to provide it to law enforcement upon request.

“Concealed weapons permits are not going away,” said the sheriff. “The Florida Department of Agriculture will continue to maintain the program and issue new permits.”

Concealed weapon permits still have benefits, such as reciprocity in other states that recognize Florida’s CWPs. They also help one’s ability to purchase and take delivery of firearms same day in lieu of the threeday waiting period.

While the law removes the minimal training requirement, the new law also provides funds to law enforcement agencies to provide meaningful concealed carry training.

“Carrying a concealed firearm, let alone possessing a firearm, comes with a lot of responsibility,” said Gualtieri. “Do your part by taking education seriously. Learn the law, seek out training to become proficient. Because your life and that of your family may depend upon it. Ensure the safe storage of your firearm and never leave it unsecured in your vehicle.”

Lisa Pence

JOEY NEILL

Non-Alcoholic and Functional Drinks

Herban Flow: St. Pete’s Non-Alcoholic Bottle Shop

By Cameron Healy

You might change the way you think about social drinking with Herban Flow. On Jan. 6, Florida’s first non-alcoholic bottle shop opened on 22nd Avenue North in St. Petersburg.

Co-owners Caitlyn and Michael Smith’s vision is to offer people healthy, non-alcoholic alternatives for social scenes.

The store is split up into two parts. In the front, customers find beers, wines, mock-tails, and spirits. In the

back, there’s more functional canned drinks.

“Functional” drinks means herbal-infused drinks, products intended to benefit your health, mood, and sleep. Herbal-infused also means drink products containing CBD and THC.

“Being able to have those options and building that community together is immensely important to us,” Caitlyn said.

The store provides new sampled drinks every Friday through Sunday by offering a taste test from every non-alcoholic category.

“It allows us to give feedback to the brands and it also is for people to try a bunch of different options,” Caitlyn said.

Herban Flow, 6848 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Tues.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 727-346-5865, herbanflow.co

Michael and Caitlyn Smith standing front of the St. Pete store.

HERBAN FLOW

Herban Flow offers non-alcoholic beverages with health benefits.

HERBAN FLOW

hard candy

What Drag Isn’t

From Milton Berle to the Trix Rabbit, Drag’s Not About Sex

By Cathy Salustri

Earlier this month, someone posted a comment on The Gabber Newspaper’s Facebook page suggesting the LGBTQ Resource Center’s drag show at the Hickman — and, in fact, all drag — includes strippers. This gentleman offered a wholly misguided, yet understandable, comment. Understandable because some national mainstream media and politicians — who perhaps have an agenda — intentionally misrepresent this historic art form.

Let’s break down the history, shall we?

A legit drag show has zero nudity and zero sexualization. Drag goes back in history to Greek theater — all of Sophocles’ actors in Antigone were men. That means when the character they portrayed was a woman, the actor dressed as a woman. Shakespeare also included drag in his works, and was performed thusly. Drag isn’t a new thing.

Modern drag portrayals include Robin Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire, Julie Andrews in Victor Victoria, Dustin Hoffman in Tootsie, and Nathan Lane in The Birdcage (Gene Hackman in The Birdcage, for that matter); hell, the Trix Rabbit dressed up like a woman to get cereal. Perhaps someone can watch Dustin Hoffman or Nathan Lane dressed as women and get all hot and bothered, but I’ve yet to meet them.

The list goes on: Milton Berle (1948, Texaco Star Theater), Danny Kaye, Bing Crosby, Tom Hanks, Jamie Farr... once you start to think, you realize it’s an accepted part of our culture.

As for “grooming” our children, well, that’s true:

Robin Williams, as Mrs. Doubtfire, “groomed” them to expect two parents who love them so much they’d do anything to be with them. Albert Goldman’s character in The Birdcage “groomed” them that parents — even step parents — should love children fiercely. And Tootsie and Victor in their respective films? It “groomed” them to know that when you need to put food on the table, you do what you have to do. As for the Trix Rabbit? Well, you have me there. She did groom children to crave crappy sugary cereal.

And Sophocles and Shakespeare? I can’t speak to what those drag performers groomed kids for in the 5th century BCE and the 16th century, re-

spectively, but I can assure that had my 10th grade language arts teacher brought in a troop that included men in drag to perform  The Tragedy of Julius Casear, I wouldn’t have had to do a Google just now to recall the name of Brutus’ wife (Porcia).

Please note that none of those portrayals involved stripping or sex work. Maybe some of you want to mention Drag Queen story hours. Before you do, tell me: Have you seen those women reading to kids? All they’re “grooming” children to do is read, and perhaps dress like Bea Arthur in Maude

Finally, if you don’t agree, even before the state passed a law setting age limits on drag shows, the probability of a drag queen breaking into your home to perform for your children was statistically insignificant. And consider this: I’m far more worried about someone opening fire during a Pride event this year than I am a child getting “groomed” for anything.

In reality, neither will likely happen. Maybe it’s time for everyone to take a deep breath and focus on what our government’s doing while we’re busy arguing over drag shows and gun laws.

ZIPPERZ BAR

Open Daily 10 AM - 3 AM

MATTHEW MCGEE

Tiki, Ties, and Footloose Random Quotes From Gulfportians

By Chris Shablak

Wait, is Gulfport turning into Footloose?

“It’s the Tiki Cairn. He has big plans to further develop it.” —Debbie Amis, talking about the newly erected stacked-rock sculpture at The Tiki on Shore

“We have hiked a lot ruins. Trails with only two or three people. Cairns keep people goin in the right direction.”

—Mark Amis talking about his inspiration for the new sculpture

“We met them at an open mic and they asked him if he knew ‘Ring of Fire.’ He learned it in two days.” —J.P. DiCarlo, talking about his 11-year old son, Owen, playing on stage with Hot Tonic

—Bill Oetting, after Taphouse gets fined again at 9 p.m. for the music

“My family ties bind and gag.” —Kathy Harris, talking about her family reunion

“It’s our Stonehenge!” —Hot Tonic’s guitar player, Josh Hindmarsh

Pay Some Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain

This Play Focuses on the Man Who Created Oz

By David Warner

L. Frank Baum, author of the beloved Oz books that inspired the even-more-beloved film, was an actor, newspaperman, chicken farmer, dry goods salesman, and store window display expert. He married the daughter of a famed women’s suffragist. Finally, he was a prolific author, with 14 Oz books, 41 other novels, 83 short stories, more than 200 poems, and at least 42 scripts to his name.

The musical OZ, premiering this month at freeFall Theatre, touches on many of these stages in his checkered career. It also touches on Baum’s happy marriage to Maud Gage. The show in many ways delights. It has lilting music and lyrics by Michael Raabe and Eric Davis and an expert cast directed with elan by Davis. There are enchanting allusions to familiar Oz characters, a versatile set that makes smart use of projections, and sumptuous period costumes. And Raabe’s masterful musical direction leads an ensemble of guitar, cello, and percussion from the piano.

Originally scheduled for freeFall’s 2019-20 season, OZ clearly reflects

Raabe’s and Davis’ admiration for Baum and his fictional worlds. Given that, I’m puzzled why there’s so much focus on a period in the author’s life when he struggled to write more “grown-up” novels.

Part of the problem may be structural redundancy. At first, it’s adorable when Elizabeth L. Meckler and Drew H. Wells, standing next to projections of children from the period, embody Baum’s fervent young fans. Those plead with him, in letters, to write more Oz books. But when they reappear in the second act — albeit as different children, with different photos and different adorable pleas — I found myself thinking, “He hasn’t got the message yet?”

Similarly, it’s a shot of theatrical magic when the ever-magical Roxanne Fay appears in a burst of smoke as the ghost of Maud’s formidable mother, Matilda Joslyn Gage, visiting from the afterlife to give Baum a kick in the butt and get him writing again. But by the second act, she has apparently become a fixture in the Baum household, interacting with the family and still asking how his “grownup

novel” is coming.

The strongest moments are the ones that evoke the enchantment and good humor of Baum’s books. I love the vaudevillian panache of “On the Same Page.” The three “Not There” numbers suggest the evolution of the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow with ease and inventiveness. And Meckler is irresistible as Dorothy, encouraging Baum to embrace the spirit of Oz again.

Allowing Baum himself more opportunities to revel rather than mope would help. I wanted to understand more about how he tapped into the imagination that informed his work.

Ultimately, Baum comes to terms with the fact that a “grownup novel” won’t cement his legacy, but his tales from the Emerald City. The children who wrote those adoring letters — and he did try to answer every one of them — were telling him that all along.

OZ at freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Through July 9: Weds.-Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 & 7 p.m.; and Sun., 2 p.m. $45-$55. 727498-5205, freefalltheatre.com.

freeFall’s latest showcases the struggles of a beloved childrens’ author.

THEE PHOTO NINJA

The Things We Don’t Say American Stage Confronts What Divides Us

By David Warner

An opening tableau with figures barely visible, one moving in slo-mo. An ominous soundtrack and eerie lighting in the transitions between the play’s four scenes. Occasional full stops within the scenes themselves.

These choices by director Sharifa Yasmin lend a sense of impending doom, horror movie-style, to Ayad Akhtar’s 2012 drama Disgraced, now

playing at American Stage, but the truly horrifying moments pop up mid-conversation, when seemingly offhand remarks rip away the facade of polite friendliness.

Disgraced includes a minefield of micro-aggressions, fueled to explode during a dinner party on Manhattan’s tony Upper East Side. Amir Kapoor (Ahsan Ali), a hard-driving corporate lawyer, and his wife, Emily

(Madeleine Russell), a painter, host. Guests include Isaac (Liam MacDougall), an influential curator, and his wife, Jory (Natasha Hakata), a colleague of Amir’s at his law firm. They may have previously ignored (or suppressed) racial or religious differences, but on this occasion those distinctions — Isaac is Jewish; Jory, Black; Amir, a non-practicing Muslim taking pains to conceal his Pakistani roots; and Emily, a white artist whose work channels Islamic traditions — all come to the fore.

The uniformly excellent cast navigates the play’s emotional twists and turns and its briskly intelligent, sometimes overlapping dialogue. As Jory, Hakata plays the model of wry restraint until even her carefully maintained veneer cracks open. MacDougall’s Isaac appears the smoothest of operators until his biases (and desires) surface. Russell conveys all of Emily’s complicated sympathies — her love for Isaac, her curiosity about Islam, her professional ambition, her blindness to how all these things are colliding — in a fluid, affecting performance. Patel’s Abe convincingly shows a young man torn between cultures, and Ali’s Amir is all coiled energy, lean and tense, his success as a kick-ass lawyer as credible as the destructive self-deception that leads to the play’s devastating conclusion.

Afsaneh Aayani’s set offers spare cosmopolitan elegance — parquet floors, loft-style windows, a MidMod cocktail table. But some details, along with the dramatic pauses, moody lighting (by Jennifer Fok) and sound design (by Curtis Craig), suggest something else is happening. It falls to us to fill in the blanks — and to imagine what darkness looms if we don’t bridge the barriers that divide us?

That’s one interpretation — and one of many questions this haunting play will likely provoke.

Disgraced at American Stage, 163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg. Through June 25: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 7 p.m.; Fridays, 8 p.m; Saturdays, 2 & 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 2 p.m. $48. 727823-7529, americanstage.org.

The milieu feels unmistakably Manhattan, yet the play asks a fundamental question: Is cross-cultural understanding even possible when prejudices are so deeply entrenched?

Hot Stuff Head to Nine Spices Hot Pot for a Culinary Adventure

By Morgan Banno

When I was a junior in college, I studied in China. Overcoming the language barrier was difficult enough (thankfully, charades is pretty universal) but I had a hell of a time eating. I was, back then, a strict vegetarian. Almost religiously strict. I was the only veg-head in my group. Most of our meals were at restaurants or street carts where I’d eat white rice and imported digestive cookies. But when I tried Chinese hot pot, my tastebuds erupted!

What is Chinese hot pot?

It’s an encapsulating, communal eating experience true to Chinese dining ethos. Your (big) table has a built-in heating element (picture an induction cooktop), a pot of simmering broth, and a variety of sliced meats, vegetables, noodles, and sauces. You gradually dump your goodies in the bubbling broth, wait for them to cook (most items cook in less than 90 seconds), fish it all out and slap it with sauce.

Nine Spices Hot Pot and Korean BBQ in Pinellas Park has authentic Chinese hot pot without an overseas flight! Choose between nine different soup bases. The most common broth is a cloudy concoction

of chicken broth, ginger, and other aromatics. However, I opted for the spicy broth (swimming with chilies, and peppercorns) and the Thai-style broth (lemongrass, ginger, chili oil, and Thai-spices). If you’re indecisive like me, Nine Spices lets you choose up to four different broths by simply adding a metal divider to the pot.

All About the Conveyor Belt

The most noteworthy aspect of Nine Spices is the revolving con-

veyor belt spanning the length of the restaurant. It boasts individual servings of everything from sliced meats and seafoods to vegetables and noodles for your hot pot. It’s constantly refreshed, but you can always order individual items, included in the price. Feeling adventurous? Try the beef aorta, duck blood curd, or omasum. Or sample the taro, tofu, and winter melon. I was in heaven with the unlimited broccoli, sliced chicken, and never-ending noodle selection — plus 22 different sauces for garnish!

Bowls of fresh fixings floated past my table and I grabbed whatever I felt like cooking. With chopsticks in one hand and a slotted ladle in the other, I felt like I was performing a grand food science experiment. Both hot pot ($28.99) and the Korean BBQ ($30.99) are “enjoy as much as you’d like.” Or splurge on both for $33.99. Don’t be like me and miss out on authentic Chinese flavors because you’re being fussy. Be bold! Be daring!

So get hungry, grab your friends, and get ready for one of the coolest dining experiences outside of Mainland China. Just don’t burn your tongue.

Nine Spices Hot Pot, 6851 66th St. N., Pinellas Park. Mon.-Sun., 1 p.m.-1 a.m. ninespiceshotpotfl.com, 727350-3772.

Bubbling Chinese hot pot with unlimited fixings.

MORGAN BANNO

Grace Mahon took The Gabber Newspaper to the Warsaw Chopin Airport in Poland.

things to do

St. Pete Pride, Pet Adoptions, and Stamp Carving.

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 22

Trivia Night Spend your Thursday evening testing your knowledge with trivia night. Gulfport Librarian Alex prepared a list of fun questions for players to answer. The player with the most questions answered correctly wins. If enough people attend, players have the option to play in teams. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 6 p.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.evanced.info

Friday, June 23-Sunday, June 25

Mega Pet Adoption Are you looking for a furry companion to join your family? Come by the Petco Love Florida Mega Adoption event where you’ll find adoptable pets. For three days, organizations state-wide will help more than 5,000 pets find homes. You never know — you might find your fur-ever friend. Donations encouraged. Friends of Strays, 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.6 p.m. 727-522-6566, megaadoptflorida.com

Friday, June 23

Secret Comedy Show Do you like surprises and stand-up comedy? Don’t Tell Comedy has a secret pop-up show somewhere on Grand Central. The location remains a secret until you buy a ticket online.

With a carefully curated lineup of local and national stand-up comedians, all comedians’ identities remain secret —  until they take the stage. Maybe you’ll see a familiar face on stage. St. Petersburg. 8 p.m. $25. donttellcomedy.com

Saturday, June 24

Toy Train Show  Regal Railway presents a toy train and collectibles show. Check out vendors’ model trains, diecast model cars, and other collectibles for sale. There’s no age limit on fun here, so bring the whole family. The kids won’t want to miss out on the awesome running train layout around the venue. Lopez Hall, 7177 58th St. N., St. Petersburg. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $6. 727-244-1341, regalrailways.com

St. Pete Pride Celebrate Pride month at St. Pete’s 21st Pride Parade and Festival. The parade starts at Albert Whitted Park and continues down Bayshore Drive to Vinoy Park. It doesn’t stop there! Enjoy a variety of LGBTQ+-friendly vendors, DJs and live music, food trucks, and local brews. North Straub Park, 400 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. 2-10 p.m. 727-3420084, stpetepride.org

Video Games & Food Trucks Support small businesses at this food truck and market festival every last Saturday of the month. Purchase any item from the market’s food trucks and vendors and you’ll receive a free pass into Unlimited Video Games Superstore. Play all your favorite video games and eat locally made grub.  Unlimited Video Games

Celebrate Pride in downtown St. Pete on June 24.

CAMERON HEALY

Superstore, 6901 US Highway 19

N., Pinellas Park. 5-9 p.m. 727-7539435, unlimitedvideogames.com

Self Discovery Work Tap into a mindset that will let you level up into your “highest” self with The Radiant St. Pete Sisterhood. Hear from coaches and facilitators on how to lean into a more fulfilling lifestyle. Bring a blanket or mat to sit on outside, water, a journal, and friends. The event location is a private residence; the address will be shared a few days before the date. Gulfport. 6 p.m. $30-75. theradiantsisterhood@ gmail.com, eventbrite.com

Drone Light Show Drones can do more than simply fly around. Prepare to be amazed as these drones create a sky full of lights. Lights by the Bay is an illuminating drone light show right on the water. Buy tickets online beforehand. Tickets include access to the aquarium as well.  Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater. 6:30 p.m. $35-55. 727-441-1790, cmaquarium.org

Sunday, June 25

Corey Avenue Market Spend your Sunday morning shopping at the Corey Avenue Sunday Market. Explore more than 80 vendors selling locally crafted and conventional products such as art, baked goods, herbs,

lunch bites, plants, and fresh smoothies. Enjoy the live music of local DJs and musicians as you walk around to different vendors.  300 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 727-4030626, tampabaymarkets.com

Grow Veggies It is time to enter your sustainable era! Save your money and begin planting your own produce. Imagine harvesting your own carrots, eggplant, and all your favorite vegetables. Learn step-by-step on how to grow delicious veggies right in your backyard. Sign up online. Attendees must be 12 years or older. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m. $5. 727-893-7326, anc.apm.activecommunities.com

Stamp Carving Workshop Carve rubber to make your own stamps with Print St. Pete. Learn the basics of hand carving stamps, which includes proper tools, carving techniques, and how to transfer your image onto paper. Create your own cool design or use the sample designs available. Take your stamp home and start crafting homemade cards and prints. You must be 16 years or older to register.  Print St. Pete, 4903 8th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10 a.m. $15. printstpete.org

Pride Street Fair  Time for a Pride block party on Central Avenue.

Bring friends and family to celebrate Pride with a street festival featuring LGBTQ+-friendly vendors, food trucks, and activities. Enjoy live music from local musicians and DJs at multiple performance stages as well as street performers. Central Avenue & 24th Street South, St. Petersburg. 12-5 p.m. 727-342-0084, eventeny.com

Wednesday, June 28

Florida History Lecture  Florida has quite a handful of nostalgic roadside attractions. Join Cathy Salustri as she talks about historic roadside attractions currently still in-operation as well as her favorites. If you plan on traveling in Florida, this lecture will help you map out your roadtrip through vintage Florida. Sign up online.  Westminster Shores, Sunrise Point, 125 56th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 2 p.m. $10-25. 727-864-7600, ce.olli.eckerd.edu

Movie in the Park Do you miss ‘80s movies? If so, you need to go to St. Pete Beach’s movie in the park at sunset. This week’s movie is Ferris Bueller’s Day Off . Bring your blankets, chairs, drinks, and snacks for this movie night. A Chick-Fil-A food truck will sell food, too. Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. 8 p.m. 727-367-2735, spbrec.com

obituaries

Deirdre Ann Wayman Fitch

October 7, 1961-May 29th, 2023

Deirdre Ann Wayman Fitch, 61, of Gulfport died May 29, 2023, ending her battle with lung cancer under hospice care. Deirdre was born on Oct. 7, 1961 in Oak Park, Illinois. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and dog mom. She was a lifetime member of the Dog Training Club of Saint Petersburg; where she was a puppy instructor and until the day she passed took great pride in breeding and raising Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties). She was preceded in death by her mother, Judith Wayman of Gulfport and her shelties who passed over the rainbow bridge.

Deirdre is survived by her father, Ronald Wayman, of Palmetto; her husband, Charles, of Gulfport; her sisters Teri Wayman of Myakka, and Billi Wayman; her daughters Heather Jones of Gulfport, and Kristina Fitch of Bark River, MI; and her grandchildren Trinity and Hayden Jones of Gulfport.

To honor her wishes, no memo-

rial service will be held. She will be greatly missed by all. To honor her passing donations can be made to the Dog Training Club of St.Petersburg or Suncoast Hospice.

Kristen Kettell

Kirsten “Kriss” Nissa Kettell went home to Jesus on June 10, 2023 at age 62.

Kriss was born to Sophia “Carol” and William “Bill” Olson on Nov. 30, 1960 in Denver, Colorado. The sun rose and the world welcomed Kriss on this date, a day the world became a little brighter. As a child, she loved nature, music, adventure, and her small pets. She was the oldest of four siblings. Her younger brothers were Patrick Olson, William “Steve” Olson, and Joshua “Josh” Olson.

This June 10, 2023, Kriss took her final breath, surrounded by her loved daughter.

Kriss left this world peacefully as her loved daughter sang her soft lullabies while holding her hand.

Kriss lived a full and warm life, filled with joy, happiness, and kindness. She will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.

Kriss met her husband, Kenneth in 1994 at Bats Taxi. They married two years later on Feb. 17, 1996 and during which they had one wondrous and caring child, Kayla.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, Kriss also loved crafting, the outdoors, and watching documentaries. Throughout her entire life, whatever was thrown at her, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with those who surrounded her. A true fighter for life, love and happiness. Her positivity could brighten any room she walked into.

Kriss joins her parents, Carol and Bill, her brother Steve, and her husband Kenneth in heaven. She is survived by her daughter Kayla Kettell, and her brothers Patrick Olson and Josh (Amanda) Olson, John (Linda) Kettell, and 9 nieces and nephews.

Exodus 23:20 “See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.”

Psalm 91:11-12 “For He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, Jesus Christ, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

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

Voices continued from page 2

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net

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

maintaining areas between sidewalk and street of their properties, which includes keeping storm drains clear and taking garbage barrels off the curb after collection. Time and again I’ve seen trash and/or recycling bins (full or empty) set out or left at the curb all week, when I believe it’s the City’s purpose to keep our streets free of such clutter. Often this occurs because the new owner or renter doesn’t know the drill. Neighbors shouldn’t have to be the ones to instruct them, which may set their relationship off on the wrong foot. It also wouldn’t hurt to add a brief bit on dog leash, noise, fertilizer, and beach area restrictions (i.e., no dogs, smoking, etc.). Airbnbs: The notification sheet should be required posting at all registered Airbnbs for compliance by renters. All this aims to keep Gulfport not only weird but peacefully so.  —Jude

Bagatti, Gulfport

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

Mr. Sufjan! Sufjan is a distinguished 13-year old gentleman. As a domestic shorthair, he has a beautifully-colored and very soft coat. Sufjan would love to hang out with you. He has lived with other cats, too!

Classic Duo Tigger and Boots are a pair of 6-year old, bonded boys. Tigger (orange and white) is the extrovert and will greet you with a meow at the door. Boots (black and white) is happy to hang back until you’re ready to give him a loving rub. As a bonded pair, they need to be adopted together.

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

Huey Boy This 1-year old, 82-pound Lab mix is ready to add some excitement to your household. Huey is a big, goofy boy who would love an active household. He is always ready to be in the middle of all the fun!

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

Little Rose  Rose is a sweet, quiet girl in search of a lap to nap on. She is a 1-year old, 15-pound Chihuahua mix who would prefer a home with no small children. She is shy at first, but warms up with a little bit of time. Rose would love a home that has patience to build her confidence.

Support hyperlocal journalism! Donations Welcome Venmo @gabbernews

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER

PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SEMI-RETIRED CARPENTER At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Clearwater, Gulfport, and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus: 727-644-6194.

E. T. HARLOW COMPANY

Experienced, Professional, Reliable. Specializing in Drywall, Painting, Doors, Cabinetry, Light Electrical & Plumbing, Caulking & Grout. Gulfport / Pasadena / St. Pete Call or Text Everett @ 978-491-7070

THE TRASH QUEEN 10% SPRING CLEANING DISCOUNT

Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Providing in-home health care services to the greater St Petersburg Area. Personal, companion, complex care, post-surgery, respite care, and more. Family and veteran owned local business. Accepting private pay, VA, and Long-term health insurance. Licensed, insured, and bonded; all employees are W2. Free consultation: 727-914-7472. Hwcg.com/ St-Pete-Beach.com. AHCA #2999995153.

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

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: 727-6867277. 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

AC

727-345-3108

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

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.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & REPAIRS

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.

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: 813-8592023.

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

James

Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

Moving / Hauling TOO MUCH JUNK? FULL SERVICE JUNK REMOVAL

Trees Cleaned • Bobcat Services

Stump Grinding • Hazardous Limb Removal

Storm and Roof Protection • Insured 727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

LIC#0700008985

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

Marine Repair

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.

Garage, hoarder, eviction, & estate clean outs. Appliance/furniture removal, shed removal, carpet removal, fence demo and much, much more! Free on-site estimates. Lamy’s Hauling and Removal Service. Call or text 727-501-6464. Licensed/Insured. Family Owned/Operated. Let Us Take Your Load!

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

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

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

727-902-7077

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

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.

TAMMY VALTOS HAIR DESIGN

Full service hair salon. Refer 2 friends, get 1 haircut or eyebrow wax free! Call or text 727831-5317 1725 28th St N., St. Petersburg

HIRING EVENT WESTMINSTER SUNCOAST

Join us at our June HIRING EVENT at Westminster Suncoast on Wednesday, 6/28 from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Location: 1095 Pinellas Point Drive, St Petersburg 33705. We are hiring for RN, LPN, CNA, Maintenance, Dining and Housekeeping positions - many opportunities available.

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 Director & Part-time

• Must be a self-starter

• Make cold calls in person

• Amiable personality

• Familiar with Mac and Google docs

• Local resident

• Able to travel throughout S. Pinellas

• Lift 25 lbs.

• Provide own laptop

Contact: barry@thegabber.com

Positions Wanted 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.

Automotive

PRIUS 2 HATCHBACK FOR SALE

85k miles, 40+MPG, white/grey interior, cold AC. Service records intact. $18,000. Call Susan: 727-222-2508.

LOOKING FOR A USED RV

Looking for a used RV or camper. Please call Gus at 727-644-6194.

For Sale

TREADMILL & AB EXERCISE MACHINE FOR SALE

Barely used like new treadmill for sale. All incline and speed functions are fully operational. This machine is collapsible for easy storage. Separate used Abs machine is also available. This machine helps you perform exercises in the biometrically correct position. 727-851-7733.

General

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

Marine

BOAT SLIPS Located around the corner from Corey Ave. on St Pete Beach. Water and Power available. No live-aboards. This is a simple set up and we have a size limit. Call for details: 949-313-5238.

Pets/Animals

POM-CHI PUPPIES

3 males: sable (Frappe), honey (Nugget), fluffy tiny white (Frosty). Vet record cert -first shots. Ready 6/24 -7/3 to loving homes with small/med. pets. Should be 5 -10 lb. Text 727400-2344 for photos. $500 - $650.

Furnished Rentals

SHORT TERM RENTAL AVAILABLE Two Bedroom/One Bath. Completely furnished. Central heat & air. Close to beaches and shopping. 727-434-0424.

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.

Real Estate For Rent

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.

TOWNHOME FOR RENT IN SOUTH PASADENA 2BD/1.5BA, close to Publix, all shopping, and beaches. $1,950/month + last & deposit. No pets. 727-252-9800.

STUDIO HOUSE STUDIO HOUSE FOR RENT$1,250/month +last & deposit. Non-refundable deposit for any pet ($500). Responsible tenant. New kitchen and bathroom close to Stetson University, Newton/56th St. S. Available July 15. 727-252-9800.

2001 55th St. S. (Tangerine)

This four-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1947, has 1,800 square feet. It listed for $645,000 but sold for $585,000.

Gulfport Real Estate

1808 Gray St. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1952, has 1,265 square feet. It listed for $575,000 but sold for $577,000.

5136 13th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This three-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1957, has 940 square feet. It listed for $349,900 and sold for $330,000.

5317 13th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1980, has 1,452 square feet. It listed for $325,000 and sold for $310,000.

6025 Shore Blvd. S., #105 (Town Shores)

This one-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1971, has 1,060 square feet. It listed for $299,000 and sold for $275,000.

5925 Shore Blvd. S., #405 (Town Shores)

This one-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1972, has 1,060 square feet. It listed for $229,000 and sold for $215,000.

CATHY SALUSTRI