Fourth by the Bay

By Monroe Roark

With apologies to Lionel Richie, folks spending July 4 in Gulfport celebrating our nation’s independence are going to party all day long.

The City’s annual 4th of July Celebration is scheduled to last from 8 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. in the downtown Waterfront District. The free events on the agenda include a fishing derby, sand sculpture contest, live band, and parade — all of which lead up to what City officials are calling “a spectacular fireworks show” starting at 9 p.m.

But everything will kick off long before that. Wake up early and bring the kids to the Gulfport Marina’s Fishing Derby from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Michael J. Yakes Recreation Complex (5730 Shore Blvd. S.). Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the seawall and, as always, is free. Participants will need to bring their own fishing poles, although the marina staff will provide bait and prizes.

The free Family Sand Sculpture Contest, sponsored by the Gulfport Recreation Division, will start at 10 a.m. and last until noon. This event will take place on Gulfport’s municipal beach and has a patriotic theme this year. Participants can bring their own tools and supplies. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. Organizers will announce the winners at 12:15 p.m.

Juneteenth.

Throughout the day, since July 4 this year falls on a Tuesday, the weekly Tuesday Market will be in full swing. It is a 52-week-a-year activity, regardless of the holiday schedule.

The City of Gulfport’s Independence Day Parade starts at 6 p.m. The best viewing location, accord-

July 4 continued on page 11

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WinWay Response

I’m shocked at the insensitive and condescending tone the owner of Winway Homes has in response to The Gabber Newspaper regarding the pushback he has gotten due to his aggressive approach to building homes that don’t fit the description “quaint” in one of the last strongholds of “old Florida.” Mr. Carr obviously can’t make money on building small homes and the buyers of his homes don’t care about quaint and want a home that sticks out like a sore thumb squeezed in on a postage size lot. That’s progress… maybe. The bottom line to Winway’s closing threat could have been handled in a professional manner rather than that of a bully. He’ll never win supporters with that type of rhetoric. —Pat Buza, Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, Gulfport

The Value of a Tree

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the fate of a magnificent live oak tree that stands tall and proud in our community. Estimated to be more than 100 years old, it represents not only a symbol of natural beauty but also holds immense value in terms of environmental preservation, water mitigation, and our inherent human connection to nature.

root systems, play a crucial role in absorbing and storing water, mitigating the risk of floods, and replenishing our underground water reservoirs. With our frequent and intense rainfall events, we need to recognize their vital contribution in managing water resources and preventing water-related disasters.

Beyond these benefits, live oak trees hold a special place in our hearts, fostering a deep and timeless human connection with nature. These ancient sentinels provide shade, solace, and a sense of continuity to the community.

Sadly, in recent times, too may have succumbed to urbanization, commercial interests, or ignorance of their true value. However, it is not too late to change course and protect our natural heritage. I implore the community and its leaders to recognize the importance of these trees and take every measure possible to ensure their preservation. –Belka,

North Redington Beach

SunRunner Article

Just wanted to give a shout out to Monroe Roark, the author of this article. Thank you for explaining about the free parking on the side streets and, of course, the SunRunner! —Stephanie Weaver, PSTA

Boating Incident

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.

As we face increasing threats to our environment and its precious resources, we need to recognize the significance of preserving Gulfport’s mature trees. Living oak trees are vital habitats for numerous threatened species, because they are relied on for shelter, food, and reproduction. By protecting these trees, we are safeguarding the delicate ecosystems it supports, and the preservation of biodiversity within our community.

Moreover, water mitigation has become an increasingly pressing issue in our neighborhood. Large old trees, with their extensive

Around 10:30 p.m. on June 17, members of Boca Ciega Yacht Club saw two men adrift in a small inflatable dingy. There were west winds at 12-15 knots, which were strengthening with lightning and storms approaching. The men had been fishing, but did not have navigation lights, life preservers, radio, paddles, and had run out of gas for their small outboard engine. Winds were so strong that even with paddles it would have been extremely difficult for them to get back to their sailboat. The men said they had been drifting for quite some time and had called out to other vessels as they drifted, but their calls went unanswered.

Three members of Boca Ciega Yacht Club quickly got on a sailboat, got out to the two men, threw them a lifeline, and towed them back to their own sailboat, anchored near the Gulfport pier. There was an affectionate cat aboard the sailboat anxiously awaiting their return. The men in the dingy expressed their gratitude from start to finish. A short time later, strong squalls did pass through the area, but all concerned were safe.

The moral of the story goes without saying: Please be prepared before going out on the water, be well equipped, and do not be complacent, as even the most innocuous of intentions can and do become hazardous on the water. Also, when possible, take the time and have the courage to help others in need and “pay it forward.” Most good deeds actually do go unpunished . On a humorous note, one of the men in the dingy was over-