The Gabber: July 14, 2022 by thegabber

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2769

July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Racially Charged By Brian Shea

CLIFF ROLES PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet Lula, a young white female free-spirited hippie played by Shannon Mary Keegan, and Clay, played by Adebowale Adebiyi, a youthful, reserved, well-mannered Black man dressed in a conservative business suit.

The stage floor is sunk into the ground, covered in shadowy hues of blues and grays. It looks as though it were the depths of the sea floor. All around the stage, large jagged wooden planks jut up from the ground as if they were pieces of a ship that broke apart and sank.

DINE-IN •

Wooden planks hang above the audience as if we were held captive in a ship’s hull. In the center of the stage is a large circular wooden pedestal etched with beautiful carvings all around its sides. A silky white curtain Dutchman continued on page 15

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thegabber.com @gabbernews @gabbernews @gabberlife 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.

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voices Trump Flag After reading the two editorial letters regarding the Trump flag being either stolen, destroyed, or removed, I felt the desire to add my opinion, if nothing else just to provide a different perspective to the issue. With all due respect to the most recent letter writer, I am confused. Reason being is that you say, among other things, “Whatever happened to ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ – and then the rest of your letter goes on to talk about our former president as a tyrant, [and] his followers are “dumb enough to believe the big lie.” You go on to say that those displaying such a flag are advertising hate and compared it to the Nazi flag?! Also saying that the flag advertises hate and discontent! Seems to me that most of your letter was your opinion (which you’re entitled to) and it had more to do with the hate you feel for our former president than it does the love you claim we should all have. I personally don’t care how you think, who you vote for or your opinion on that person. I don’t agree with you but it’s your choice. It’s not mine and it never will be. You can have your choice without belittling those who don’t share it with you. That is, if you truly believe in your words of “love one another.” I proudly fly a large Trump flag on window, in my car, and had one as a doormat, which was stolen by someone not sharing my opinion. I won’t replace it with another, as I don’t want damage to my property. I was initially leery of Trump as president, but after the past four years, with him in charge (compared to our life today) I see no comparison! That fact does not make me dumb, or spewing hate. To compare it to the Nazi flag is so, so wrong. I do not want a political war in the editorial column of The Gabber, a paper we all enjoy (at least I do). I just wanted to give my perspective. There are more Trump fans among us than most people know. As said in my parents’ wedding song, “To each his own.” –Carol Carter, Gulfport

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

A Good Kid’s Life Cut Short In recent years, the long-held stigma associated with mental health has abated somewhat. The one mental health issue towards which stigma unrelentingly prevails is addiction and, more specifically, drug addiction. Guilt-provoking and blame are attributed to families while treatment for the addicted remain hopelessly behind, often ineffectual, if, indeed, accessible. The June 30 Gabber cover story offered a compellingly compassionate history of Mitchel, who, with his mother, endured enormous suffering through his young life which was cut short at age 26. We should ardently hope that government officials would attribute more funds for early intervention and prevention services instead of later incarceration. –Gerry O’Regan, MSW

The Gabber welcomes and encourages letters and commentary. One letter per person, per month. All letters must be signed with your real name and city, and should be as brief as possible (ideally <250 words). We may edit letters for content, clarity and length. We will not print letters that incite violence, include personal attacks on private citizens, or that are intentionally misleading or inaccurate. Letters sent to the Gabber for print will also appear online and on the Gabber’s social media pages. Commentary posted to the Gabber’s website and social media pages may also be used in print. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent the views of the Gabber owners, advertisers, or staff. Send letters to news@thegabber. com or mail them to 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL, 33707.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

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news Bringing Home the Bacon

Charlie Crist Gets $ for Gulfport Senior Center, Treasure Island Pump Station The Gulfport Senior Center will get a $1.5 million boost from the federal government thanks to its inclusion in the list of projects on a bill that advanced through the U.S. House Appropriations Committee in late June. U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement June 30 announcing four Community Project Funding requests that are included in the FY 2023 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. The bill may be considered on the House floor in the coming weeks, according to Crist’s office. Other Pinellas County projects for which Crist reportedly secured funding include $2.5 million for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) to purchase solar-powered, zero-emission buses and facility charging infrastructure for its fleet of all-electric buses; $901,000 for the City of St. Petersburg to renovate community centers in the southern part of the city; and $139,461 for Gulfcoast Legal Services Inc. to provide legal aid to low-income households in the county at risk of being homeless. “Across Florida, and especially right here in Tampa Bay, we rely on resilient infrastructure and access to public transportation so we can be connected to resources, employment, and loved ones,” said Crist. “As the cost of living continues to rise in the Sunshine State, this bill not only bolsters those critical connections, but also helps tackle the housing affordability crisis and create jobs.” Crist’s office said the legislation also includes more than 140,000 new housing vouchers targeted to individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and approximately 5,600 new housing units for seniors and persons with disabilities. Additionally, the bill includes more than $1.6 billion to re-

CITY OF GULFPORT/HARVARD JOLLY

By Monroe Roark

The current center has about 3,000 registered members and serves 400-600 people each weekday. This is done from a facility built in 1983 and is in dire need of an overhaul. Here’s what the new Gulfport Senior Center could look like – if the lobbyists can get the funding.

duce emissions, increase resiliency, and address historical inequities in transportation and housing programs. Five projects are included in the $6 million allocated to Pinellas County through the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. Half of that amount is for the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American History Museum to develop an African American history educational curriculum. Also included is $976,000 for Clearwater Marine Aquarium education initiatives for students in Pinellas County public schools; $963,620 for Baycare Health Systems Inc. for a workforce development program to address the healthcare workforce shortage in Pinellas; $500,000 for the Pace Center for Girls to provide free educational and support services to at-risk girls; and $1 million for Eckerd College to upgrade the Galbraith Marine Science Laboratory research facility and equipment. More than $4 million in Pinellas County funding is included in the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. Three million dollars are for the Baypointe Regional Stormwater Treatment Fa-

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

cility to create a new stormwater conservation area that will improve water quality, reduce flooding, and provide recreational opportunities. The City of Treasure Island will get $1.2 million to replace and elevate the City’s aging Master Pump Station to enhance wastewater resiliency and improve operations. The Energy and Water, and Related Agencies appropriations bill includes two specific projects in Pinellas County. An allocation of $949,500 will allow the City of Clearwater to purchase and install solar panel systems on city-owned facilities, and $265,000 has been set aside for the City of Largo to install a solar panel system on the roof of the Largo Public Library. The Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill includes more than $4 million in local funding: $750,000 for St. Petersburg to purchase new police communications and dispatch equipment as well as $3.4 million for the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science to monitor emerging environmental and health threats in Tampa Bay, including those related to the Piney Point releases in 2021.

Quarantined

This Time, It’s for Fruits, Veggies, and Legumes in South Pinellas. By Nano Riley

It’s official: South Pinellas County, including Gulfport, is now under quarantine for the Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis). The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) sounded the alarm after the destructive pest appeared in Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg in late June. “This detection highlights the importance of our world class exotic pest surveillance system,” said FDACS Division of Plant Industry Director, Dr. Trevor Smith. “Our staff works closely with our federal partners, and has begun a treatment program to eradicate this destructive pest.” To protect crops in the area, the quarantine prohibits movement of fruit, vegetables, and nuts without permission from the department. The FDACS found pesky flies recently in traps monitored regularly by FDACS agents. The Oriental fruit fly, a cousin of the dreaded Mediterranean fruit fly, (medfly) is considered one of the most devastating fruit flies in the world, potentially causing economic harm to Florida’s crops. This fly’s been trapped and “successfully “eradicated in Florida several times since 1964, and was last spotted in the Miami-Dade area in 2015. Speedy eradication is of the utmost importance. This destructive fly attacks more than 436 different fruits, vegetables, and nuts, including figs, loquats, mangoes, oranges, peaches, Surinam cherry, tangerine,

tropical almond, and guava. The Oriental fruit fly multiplies as adult females deposit several eggs under the skin of a fruit or vegetable. After larvae hatch, these maggots tunnel through the pulp, turning it into a “rotting mass,” the agricultural agency says. According to the FDACS, agents are treating a 1.5-square-mile area around where the fly was found – and they’ve been detected in Gulfport and St. Pete, so that puts most of South Pinellas under the quarantine.

South Pinellas – including St. Petersburg and Gulfport – are under quarantine for the Oriental fruit fly.

Treating the fly includes the “male annihilation technique” (MAT), an “attract and kill” strategy for male flies with a mix of bait and insecticide. Treatments are applied for two life cycles of the fly, approximately 60 days. The aim is to diminish male fly populations, which reduces mating opportunities for females. Other strategies include foliar spot treatment,

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soil drenching, and fruit removal. Treatment may be applied weekly to the upper portion of utility poles, trees, and other inanimate objects out of the normal reach of people and pets. Lest organic gardeners get concerned about the use of pesticides by FDACS agents, they are using Spinosad, (an insecticide derived from naturally occurring soil organisms and commonly used by organic growers) to spot treat host trees in affected areas, and on soil under infected trees. If larvae is found in infested fruits or vegetables, fruit removal is necessary. Homeowners and gardeners are requested to avoid sharing fruits and veggies, and to double bag any produce that falls on the ground and dispose of it to prevent eggs from hatching. But don’t worry about agents parading through your yard – they’re only checking existing traps, though they do request a call if you suspect the flies are in your yard. It’s all hands on deck to eliminate these exotic pests. For more info, contact the FDACS Oriental Fruit fly program.

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theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Meet the Gecko World Grant Recipients: Sea Turtle Trackers The Team That Keeps St. Pete Beach ‘Clean, Dark, and Flat’ By Abby Baker

Gulfport gathers

protect it with tape or chicken wire to keep out predation.”

SEA TURTLE TRACKERS

The Sea Turtle Trackers on St. Pete Beach may not see a turtle in the flesh every day, or every week, but the volunteer-led nonprofit organization is always on the turtle’s tracks, protecting nests and clearing the shore for hatchlings. The St. Pete Beach conservation group was chosen as one of the three Gecko World Grant recipients, but the Gulfport Merchants Chamber will not know the amount granted to each charity until after the money is totaled at the end of the 2022 Gecko World season. Armed with a boat, truck, and an ATV, Sea Turtle Trackers set out to make the beach safe for sea turtle hatchlings, as it was before beach towns boomed. “Clean, dark, and flat,” said Theresa Arenholz, one of Sea Turtle Tracker’s directors. “We do nest monitoring every morning and look for tracks. If it’s not a false crawl, we

An example of a turtle trail.

Of the 200 people on the organization’s roster, only about 40 actively work the beaches. Grant money like the Gecko World Grant funds goes directly into education tools that allow the tracker volunteers to go into schools and teach beach residents early. The Sea Turtle Trackers don’t ac-

tually “track” any living sea creatures. Organization founder Bruno Falkenstein gave it that name in 1979 before tracking device technology was widely used. Much has changed in four decades, but the Sea Turtle Trackers mission has not. Volunteers still hit the beaches of St. Pete Beach, Shell Key, and Outback Key. Most of the time they’re protecting nesting grounds, but occasionally they find dead turtles and report the data to FWC. If the turtles are small enough, volunteers sometimes bury their bodies on the beach, not far from where nests could be. Often times, the turtles die from getting entangled in plastic. This article is part of a three part series introducing the trio of Gecko World applicants. Next week, readers will get a look inside homeless aid organization St. Vincent DePaul CARES.

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Past Due at Gulfport City Hall

The Gabber Looks at the City’s Process for Collecting Utility Bills. By Monroe Roark

Gulfport may not be getting its money as soon as some people think it should, but it gets it eventually. And no one is owed money right now, either, the City says. Gulfport’s Finance Director Cheryl Hannafin sat down with The Gabber to explain the process.

Do a bunch of property owners owe the City of Gulfport large amounts of money? Are there others who should be getting money from the city? How exactly are these collections being handled?

After hearing complaints and allegations of wrongdoing on both sides, The Gabber reached out to City Hall in an attempt to get some official answers. One page of a recent city report showed that accounts more than

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penalty, sewer charges, refuse collection, and refuse penalty – totaled anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000. Is the City of Gulfport attempting to collect any of these fees? Yes and no, according to Gulfport Finance Director Cheryl Hannafin. In the case of water, most of these properties no longer have service but are being billed on a “stand-by” rate, which is the minimum needed for maintenance of the system. “We call it ‘ready to serve,’” she said. Some properties have been in this category for 5 or 10 years, although they are shrinking in number because of the scorching real estate market that has led to quick property sales in recent months. All of them have liens attached due to unpaid bills, and they must be reconciled before service gets reconnected. “The City has chosen not to foreclose on these properties,” said Hannafin. “If they are not paying their property taxes, the tax collector can foreclose on them. But we are a small city and there are a lot of complexities and rules to follow.” Some properties remain on stand-by for a long period of time because they are caught up in probate. It could be because an elderly homeowner died and

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his or her heirs are ironing out the estate. There are a variety of possible reasons, Hannafin explained, but in any event, she said the City will get what is owed before anyone else moves in. “They will not get water service until they clear those liens,” said Hannafin. “We will not turn the water on. Although we may not collect the money as quickly as if we moved forward with the foreclosure process, we do at some point collect that money.” Hannafin explained the process further: The law allows the City to disconnect the water after two months of nonpayment. Water bills average around $100 per month, and the City now requires a $200 deposit for a new account to be established, so in most cases that covers the two months that aren’t paid. In the case of rentals, the law does not allow the City to place a lien a property based on the balance a tenant owes. But after a 30-day period following disconnection of service, the bill reverts to the property owner’s name. While an owner’s water might be shut off after 60 days, the bill does not stop accumulating. The City places a lien after $500 is owed. The water will not be turned back on until the lien is satisfied. “I understand that if you look at the numbers independently without understanding the process behind it, you might have

some questions,” said Hannafin. “But upon further investigation you can see that these properties are liened, and anyone can pull up copies of the liens through the County Clerk’s office. There is interest on them as well, and the city is collecting interest on pastdue balances.” As for the other side of the issue, in which property owners sometimes have credits on their accounts, there is a specific process for claiming that money as outlined in the ordinance the City Council passed in 2019. Many of those properties were also on stand-by for a number of years before being purchased, often by an investor, who simply paid the liens and moved on to restore the property and perhaps flip it. “If they went to a title company and said, ‘We need to pay these liens,’ and paid without a dispute, the file is closed,” said Hannafin. “They would not be due any refund. They would have had to come to us prior to turning the service on to dispute the charges.” Due to recent trends in the real estate market, it is not unusual for a check to arrive unannounced in the mail at City Hall after a property is sold by family members resolving an estate or to an investor. “They see the liens because they do a search, and they pay the bill. There is no dispute,” said Hannafin. “We are not going to offer a credit to somebody who is not disputing.”

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The Queen Bees of the MFA

Meet the Beekeeping Couple and Their Rooftop Hives Unbeknown to many museum visitors, the roof of the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg houses eight honeybee hives. The bees silently live on their urban landing field, make honey, and patrol downtown St. Petersburg and the surrounding parks day in and day out. About once a month, Allison and Matt Davis, a married couple and the owners of Noble Nectar Apiaries, check the hives. If there’s enough product, they sling 50 pound boxes of organic honey over the side of the MFA. The museum is only two stories, but the roof is 30 feet above the ground. “We can’t take the boxes with bees through the building,” Matt said. “There’s bees on them. It’s impossible to get them all off and we can’t really walk through the museum in bee suits.” The MFA roof is not exactly a convenient location for the beekeepers, but the location worked out for the couple, who reached an agreement with the museum in 2019. “If it wasn’t logistically such a pain, then it’d be perfect,” Matt said. “The bees love being up high, they can’t scare people that high up, I just wish it was easier to manage them.” Before going into the bee business, the Davises both worked for freeFall Theater Company. Allison was a set painter and Matt was the master carpenter for freeFall. His brother, Eric Davis, owns the theater company. The two didn’t think much of bees until they discovered a working hive in the wall of freeFall. “They were interesting to watch,” Matt said. “One day, the mainte-

ALLISON DAVIS

By Abby Baker

Allison and Matt Davis collect honey from the hives they’ve set on the roof of the MFA.

nance man was going to kill them, and I asked him not to. I said we would figure out a way to take care of it.” Both Allison and Matt learned the art of beekeeping, and they began removing and raising hives as a hobby. Soon, it became a business and they founded Noble Nectar Apiaries and retired from their full-time positions in the St. Pete theater world. “I think we started getting busier

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and busier,” Allison said. “The bees are different. I think we needed the transition.” Aside from the MFA hives, the Davis’ have another 12 locations throughout St. Pete, Clearwater, and Manatee County. Though they sell the honey as a byproduct of keeping hives, most of their income comes from removals. In the case of the museum’s honey, the couple sells in bulk to the MFA and the museum then sells their jarred product in the gift shop. “Honey, for the work that goes into it, is very underpriced,” Matt said. When Matt and Alison are not tending bees and humanely removing or relocating bee hives, they teach the importance of bees to their three children. Have a bee problem? Interested in local honey? Give them a buzz at 727-415-2518

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

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Biz News: Backfin Blue Closes + Coquina Key Plaza

Gulfport Staple Closes for Good and the Fate of a St. Pete Plaza By Abby Baker

After 25 years of serving seafood to downtown Gulfport, Backfin Blue Cafe officially closed on July 4. “Over the years we’ve built a family with so many people, and are extremely grateful to have done so,” Carly Russell wrote on Facebook on July 4. Carly is Backfin owner Harold Russell’s, daughter. Backfin Blue [2913 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport] did not respond to multiple inquiries from The Gabber, but the new owners of the former Peninsula Inn plan to buy the property, although nothing is set in stone – yet. “We are in the last two weeks before signing the contract,” said Casa Florida co-founder Gaston Gonzalez. In a prior statement, Gonzalez said he would like to include the small restaurant in his plans. It would potentially be connected to the hotel and cocktail bar by a pathway. Isabelle’s, the restaurant at the Peninsula, closed to guests in May. Gaston’s team is reworking the historic hotel, making much-needed repairs, and deep cleaning everything (especially the kitchen). The inn remains open. In 1997, Gulfport resident Harold Russell opened Backfin Blue. While the future of the popular seafood

ABBY BAKER

Bye Bye Backfin

The Fourth of July was Backfin Blue’s last day.

restaurant is unclear, Russell’s retirement from the Beach Boulevard restaurant is not. Over the past few years, Backfin Blue had limited hours, but Russell’s made several improvements, including adding pathways and a gelato outpost. The Gabber will continue to follow this developing story. Plans for the Plaza The abandoned Coquina Key Plaza could become a 75-foot-high, seven story, mixed-use housing development. St. Pete real estate firm Stoneweg

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US, the same firm developing the Lake Maggiore Apartments, bought the strip mall at 4350 6th St. S. for $7.23 million with high hopes. St. Petersburg’s Community Planning and Preservation Commission (CPPC) only allows buildings 45 feet and shorter in that neighborhood, but Stoneweg’s asking the board to consider a 75 foot building. The firm says 20% of the housing will be workforce, often called affordable, housing. The Save-A-Lot closed after Stoneweg US bought the building last year. Stoneweg’s development agreement does include a space for a 20,000 square-foot retail area that may bring in a grocer. However, it’s not guaranteed that a fresh food store will fill that space. “Unfortunately, grocery store chains we’ve talked to are not interested in locating at our center, telling us the demographics of the surrounding area don’t meet their requirements,” Stoneweg’s rep told The Gabber. “That said, we are continuing discussions to see if there might be a possibility for a small market as part of the retail we have allocated for the site.” Do you have thoughts on the plaza’s future? The public hearing is Aug. 9. Coquina Key Plaza Public Hearing: Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2 p.m. City Council Chambers, 175 5th St. N., St. Petersburg.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Nano Knows

Florida Summertime Landscape Watering By Nano Riley

Dear Nano, What a welcome addition to The Gabber! I really appreciated your rant on planting lawns! Yuck! However, I do wonder where you live? I do not get rain “most” every afternoon and never have since I’ve lived here for the past six years, not even in the rainy season. I am from Wisconsin, where we have soil. I assume watering to keep plants alive during the rainy season when it’s hot as hell is different here because of the sandy “soil”. I’m wondering if there is a good strategy to keep things alive? Should I water my plants, which are ground covers, plants in pots, and tropical stuff from heliconia to ferns to plumbago and elephant ears… A good soaking for an hour once a week or a little water every day? Thank you, Diane Dear DianeCongratulations on ditching your lawn! And a good strategy for a thriving landscape is to use native plants, adapted to our sandy soil and hot summers. Since you don’t name the ground cover you have, hard to say about water, but a good rule is steady watering for an hour or so twice a week, before 10 a.m.

or after 5 p.m., to prevent evaporation. Check with Pinellas County for watering restrictions to avoid fines! Wedelia was a popular ground cover, but it’s non-native and a major nono for Florida landscapes, according to the University of Florida. It forms a dense mat, posing a threat to native plants and agriculture. Natives such as wild plumbago or sunshine mimosa require little to no water and are suited to our environment. Tropicals such as heliconia are lovely, but need extra moisture – their native habitat is a rainforest riverbank where they attract hummingbirds, their only pollinator. We’re subtropical here, so if you want exotics, it’s best to group them together, creating a small environment, or grow them in planters. To maintain moisture, mulch, mulch, mulch…but please, no cypress mulch; it’s devastated our native cypress forests. As for our afternoon storms, ask any local old-timer and you’ll discover “you could set your watch by them.” Every afternoon around three or four, the heavens can open with a deluge, and a dangerous lightning show. Climate change is affecting our weather patterns, and our rainy season’s less predicable, but still peaks from July through September;

SWIM WITH THE SUMMER

DOLPHINS THIS

the state still averages 50+/- inches a year. Meteorologists say this year’s shaping up to be the third warmest May in Tampa in data going back to 1890. Remember, 50% of our municipal water goes on lawns, while native plants require little watering and benefit native wildlife, a win-win! Visit the Florida Native Plant Society to discover more about the beauty of natives.

Nano Riley knows gardening. She’s a lifelong gardener with a passion for Florida plants and the environment, and a Florida gardening writer. Have a Florida gardening question? Nano knows the answer. Send ‘em to garden@thegabber.com.

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theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

arts Three Pickles, Please

The History of the Cuban Sandwich, Explained In the Tampa Bay area, there are dozens of eateries that bill themselves as “home of the best Cuban” – a solid and soul-satisfying sandwich that nestles ham, roasted pork, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard together between two buttery layers of Cuban bread. But, as Andrew Huse, Bárbara C. Cruz, and Jeff Houck reveal in their forthcoming book, “The Cuban Sandwich: A History in Layers” (University Press of Florida, 2022), deciding which Cubano is best – or even where the Cuban originated – is no simple matter. As the title suggests, the book begins with early accounts of the Cubano’s progenitors, the mixto and medianoche sandwiches which served a newly independent Cuba in equal measure as a convenient lunch for hungry cigar rollers or a snack for latenight revelers. Through a generous helping of historical sources, the book conjures the spectacle of specially trained loncheros who rapidly sliced, spread, and pressed their layered creations at busy cafes. From there, it follows the meaty morsel into Tampa, New York, and Miami, where communities of Cuban immigrants and exiles brought the sandwich to new heights in their new homes – and where it finally became known as “the Cuban.” Gourmands will savor the book’s deliciously evocative discussion of the sandwich’s many components, including the distinctly crusty Cuban bread, sweet bolo ham, and mojo pork, each of which has its own fascinating history. The book also tackles some of the more controversial intricacies of the Cubano’s development, including the proper quantity and placement of pickles, how to correctly apply the mustard, and whether or not to include salami (expected in Tampa, simply unacceptable in Mi-

UNIVERSITY PRESS OF FLORIDA

By Amanda Hagood

The Cubano has a history as varied and satisfying as the sandwich itself. I recommend reading with a side of yucca fries!

ami). It even considers the issues of corporatizing the Cuban (now available at Arby’s and Pollo Tropical) and multicultural crossovers (including the Jewban sandwich, usually adapted with pastrami and coleslaw). But even if you’re not a foodie, or even if you are (as I am) more or less a vegetarian, you’ll still enjoy the absorbing social history the book provides. You’ll learn how this special sandwich played a role in the development of landmark restaurants such as Tampa’s Columbia and Miami’s Versailles

and came to express an important sense of cubanidad for Cuba’s far-flung diaspora. And, thanks to more than a dozen interviews woven into the history, you’ll meet some of the impressively dedicated chefs, restaurateurs, and food producers who are preserving and innovating Cuban food traditions across the United States and abroad. No matter how you slice it – though, traditionally, you should slice it on the diagonal – “The Cuban Sandwich” is good food for thought.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Dutchman continued from cover CLIFF ROLES PHOTOGRAPHY

hangs from the theater’s ceiling and drapes the edges of the pedestal. It keeps hidden from the audience what stands on top of it. This ghostly atmosphere is created by designer Teresa Williams and scenic artist Michaela Dougherty. A mist begins to roll onto the stage. “I can’t wait to see what’s behind that curtain,” the woman sitting next to me excitedly says to her date. The lights fade, and a near-realistic storm begins inside the theater, apple, as if to foreshadow the dark created by lighting designer Dalton path Lula wants to lead Clay down. Hamilton and sound designer Aaron While Clay remains centered and Muhl. Then, one by one, members calm, Lula affects the audience on of the production’s ensemble move opening night. She stalks Clay with onto the stage – most playing various playful flirtation, then moves into agmuted parts. In the beginning, they’re gressive sexual predatory behavior dressed all in white and look lost and towards Clay, disturbing and dangerconfused. The storm builds. ous. I feared for the character Clay. What follows is a haunting dance She encourages Clay to drop all his choreographed by Alexander Jones responsibilities and come party with that represents the dehumanizing her. At the same time, Lula drops injourney of African men sulting trigger words Raw. Disturbing. about Blacks, gays, and and women, torn from their homes and famJews, casually using viProvocative. ilies in Africa, forcibly olent language; audible shipped into slavery, but lost at sea. sounds of shock and disgust come The anguished-filled dance reachfrom the crowd reacting to the words. es its crescendo, the lights flash, the Lula pushes and prods Clay with her white curtain drops, and the audience language, trying to provoke him tobursts into roaring applause. wards rage. And what is revealed on the top of “Let me be who I want to be!” exthe pedestal? Two figures sitting in a claims Clay. Clay is fighting for his subway car compartment. The scene soul; Lula is determined to take it. on the pedestal is New York City in the These are intense, soul-wrenching 1960s. Thus begins American Stage’s scenes. production of Amiri Baraka/ Leroi Jones “Dutchman”, directed masterfully by Erica Sutherlin. There is a captivating, otherworldly feeling about this play. The central figures are Lula, a young white female free-spirited hippie played by Shannon Mary Keegan, and Clay, played by Adebowale Adebiyi, a youthful, reserved, well-mannered Black man dressed in a conservative business suit. Both Keegan and Adebiyi play their character with great deft. What begins as a casual conversation between two strangers on a train is quickly revealed as a cold, calculating hunt, with Lula as the predator and Clay as her prey. Lula wants Clay to see her as an open free loving spirit, but her character is a sensual sociopathic viper. She even offers Clay an

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Interestingly, when “Dutchman” had its first production in the ‘60s, the playwright was divorcing his wife. “Dutchman” is also the last play he wrote using his birth name Leroi Jones; he continued writing plays as Amiri Baraka, a man who wanted to reclaim his freedom and authentic identity. Raw. Disturbing. Provocative. Watching this production, I could feel the personal pain the playwright needed to express with the words between Lula and Clay. The actors brought eerie depth to their characters. This production is a testament to the dedication towards storytelling from the creative team of American Stage. They brought St Petersburg a ghostly and captivating psychological thriller. Dutchman American Stage 163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg. Through July 31: Wed.-Thurs., 7 p.m; Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; and Sat.-Sun. 2 p.m. $47-$75. americanstage.org; 727-823-7529.

Gulfport Senior Center 5501 27th Ave. S. • 727-893-5657 •

/gulfportseniorcenter

Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events. Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, we’ve limited capacity, so call to register for a spot. Supplemental food assistance for qualifying Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Proper verification required prior to use of the pantry. GEMS (Gulfport Extended Mobility Service) provides affordable Door-to-Door transportation service, rides to medical appointments, shopping, and much more for Gulfport residents, 55 years of age or older or disabled. 727-893-2242. Medical Equipment Lending Program provides gently used wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and other medical equipment to seniors who need it. Supplies limited.

SPECIAL EVENTS How Nutrition Changes as You Age In this health talk with Labrador Primary, learn how our bodies need different foods and nutrients to function optimally as we age. Join Dr. Graham and learn tips for adapting your diet as your metabolism, taste buds, and digestion change. July 14, 12 p.m. Rhythm & Groove Jam Session Let’s make music together at our monthly hootenanny. Bring your instrument and join this casual jamming group. Open to all instruments, all levels of experience and, of course, all listeners. July 14, 3 p.m. Clubhouse Chatter Open discussion about the MLB season and your hometown Rays. July 15, 10:30 a.m. Wellness Wednesday: Monthly Wellness Checks Make your health a priority and track your progress with free monthly wellness screenings. July 20, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. SNAP Benefit Assistance Feeding Tampa Bay will meet with you to help you apply for SNAP benefits. July 21; appointment only. iPhone/iPad Instruction Class Learn the basic functions of your Apple iPhone or iPad. July 21, 1 p.m.; registration required.

In the Kitchen with Chef Jack: Nashville Roasted Chicken Salad Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step instruction from Chef Jack. July 21, 4 p.m. Limited space; registration required. Matinee Movie Take a break and enjoy a movie with friends. Call for title. July 22, 1 p.m. Armchair Adventures: Women of Arabia Enjoy culture, geography, and history as Mary Stenov shares many artifacts and stories from the years she lived in Arabia. July 26, 2 p.m. Happy Birthday to You! Celebrate July birthdays with friends, food, and fun – whether it’s your birthday or not. July 27, 3 p.m.

GEMS GETAWAYS Seminole Hard Rock Casino Amp up your fun with an exciting array of slot machines and table games, including blackjack, baccarat and more – plus live-action poker. July 21. $20; $15, members. The James Museum and Hawkers Asian Street Food Experience a guided tour of the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry from the American West. Next, eat lunch where the food mesmerizes all five senses. July 28. $27; $21, members. Join the Adventure Club! Step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and check it off your bucket list. Helicopter Ride Sept. 6. $58; $54, members. iFly Tampa Nov. 17. $99; $94, members.

MONDAYS Chair Exercise/Yoga 9:30 a.m., Theater lobby Spanish for Beginners 10 a.m., Room 107 Wisdom Healing Qigong 11 a.m., Theater lobby Mahjong 12 p.m., Room 107 Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby Chair Yoga 1 p.m., Casino Strength Training & Aerobics 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall Chair Volleyball 3 p.m., Dining Hall

TUESDAYS Gulfport Senior Citizens Harmonica Club 9 a.m., Room 107 Line Dancing for Beginners 10 a.m., Neighborhood Center Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino Continuing Level 1 Spanish 10:30 a.m., Zoom Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby Contract Bridge 1:30 p.m., Theater lobby New Horizons Band of Gulfport Jazz Practice 4:30 p.m., Room 107 New Horizons Band of Gulfport Concert Practice 6 p.m., Dining Hall

WEDNESDAYS Gentle Mindful Yoga 9:30 a.m., Neighborhood Center Bunco 10:30 a.m., Room 106 Investment Discussion Group 10 a.m., Room 107 Canasta 1 p.m., Theater lobby Watercolor Painting 1 p.m., Room 106 Bingo 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall Cardio Drumming 4:30 p.m., Dining Hall Cardio Drumming 5:30 p.m., Dining Hall Intermediate Spanish 6 p.m., Room 106

THURSDAYS Art Summer Open Workshop 9:30 a.m., Room 106 Guided Meditation 10 a.m., Room 107 Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby Acrylic Painting 1 p.m., Room 106 Contract Bridge 1:30 p.m., Theater lobby

FRIDAYS Wellness Movement 9 a.m., Room 106 Gulfport Writers’ Workshop 9:30 a.m., Room 107 Knitting & Crocheting 10 a.m., Theater lobby Healing Yoga Therapy 11 a.m., Casino Bridge Instruction 12:30 p.m., Room 107 Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby Chair Volleyball 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Catherine Hickman Theater 727-893-1070 • 5501 27th Ave. S. Summer One-Acts The Gulfport Community Players present their annual showcase of one-act plays. This year, they feature nine different one-acts. Through July 24: Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. $25, door (cash only); $20, gulfportcommunityplayers.org.

Gulfport Motown Showcase with Jay Maih Presented by Unity of Gulfport. July 28, 7 p.m. VIP & general admission tickets and info, unityofgulfport.org.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Gulfport Casino Ballroom 727-893-1070 • 5500 Shore Blvd. S. Ballroom Dance With Daniel Fugazzotto and Carol Baker. July 17: 6 p.m., lesson; 7 p.m., dance. $10. 727-798-3660. Carol Baker’s Singles Dance Couples welcome, too. July 22 6:15 p.m., lesson; 7 p.m., dance. $10. 727-798-3660. Contra Dance With Tampa Friends of Old Time Dance. Band and caller. July 24: 3:30 p.m., lesson; 4 p.m., dance. $10. 727-823-2725. tampabaycontra.com

Ballroom Dance With USA Dance. DJ and dance hosts, plus a lesson. July 25, 7 p.m. $10; $7, USA Dance members. 727-576-1206. Casino Weekly Dances Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12 p.m. $10 Argentine Tango: Tues., 6:30 p.m., $10 Swing: Weds., 7 p.m. $10 Latin Night: Thurs., 7 p.m. $10

Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 • /gulfportlibraryfl Mygulfport.us/gpl • Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. All programs free and subject to change. Murder in the Afternoon Mystery Series Do you love a whodunit? Join this weekly mini-series. Weds., except July 20, 12 p.m.; visit events calendar or call for info. SHINE Presentation Information and counseling about Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D. July 20, 1 p.m. Call 727-893-1073 for individual appointment. Storytime Join us for stories, rhymes, music. Thursdays, 10:15 & 11 a.m. Sharpie Coffee Mugs & Cookies Use markers to decorate mugs and enjoy yummy cookies. July 14, 4 p.m. Best for grades 6-12 Paint a Sea Turtle A follow-the-leader paint class. July 19, 3 p.m. Limited supplies/

space; registration required. Best for ages 5 and older; two registrants per household. Gulfport Library Book Club Discuss The Source of Self Regard by Toni Morrison. Get a copy from the library or audiobook from Overdrive/Libby. July 21, 2 p.m. Flow Yoga for Teens Join Alyssa, a dedicated body practitioner, in a beginner class. She’ll guide you through that help with strength, flexibility, and balance. She’ll also introduce participants to beginner meditation breathwork and visualization. The class will guide participants through intentional poses, bringing about greater body awareness and peace of mind that

can be carried into everyday life. July 21, 4 p.m. Registration suggested; call or email library.programs@mygulfport.us. Tricky Dogs Show Join the Summer Reading Final Party for grade school readers K-5, featuring a spectacular appearance by Rick Martin and the Tricky Dogs Show, a circus-style show that uses humor in an entertaining and educational show. July 26, 7 p.m. COF Presents Defending Democracy by the League of Women Voters Sponsored by the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Library. July 28, 1 p.m.

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec Annual registration: $3 residents, $6 nonresidents Basketball Adult: Thurs. 6-8:30 p.m. Pickleball All levels: Tues., 6-8:30 p.m.

PROGRAMS Afterschool Program Registration now open! Register now for 2021-22 school year child care program for kids entering kindergarten through age 14. Bus transportation available from Pasadena Fundamental, Bear Creek, Gulfport Montessori, and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program runs until 5:30 p.m., with extended hours until 6 p.m. for an extra charge. Please contact the Recreation Center for more details. Teen Night Registrations Continue! Available for middle and high school students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use

the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required: $3. Tot Time Pre-register for the 2022-2023 Tot Time Program, a pre-school, handson program for ages 3-5. Tot Time makes learning fun for children and helps prepare them for kindergarten. Two, three and fiveday monthly options available. Program runs 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., starting Sept. 6. Pre-registration runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. $25 deposit holds a spot and gets applied to first month’s tuition. Gulfport residents must provide proof of residency. VPK Program We are currently accepting VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) Vouchers for the 2022-2023 School Year. VPK is free for all Florida children who turn 4 by Sept. 1. VPK runs from 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., starting Sept. 6. Apply only at elcpinellas.net; after applying, bring the certificate of eligi-

bility to pre-registration, which takes place Mon.-Fri., from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

CLASSES Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call John: 727893-1079. F.I.T Tennis Fri., 6 p.m. Free for beginners, ages 21 and up. Chase Park, 5313 27th Ave. S. Mo: 727-515-1454. Hatha Yoga 6:15 p.m. $12/class or $50/ month. Denise: 727-251-8868. Holistic Health July 21, 6:30 p.m. $20/class. Jennifer: 813-263-3919. Hula Hoop Fitness Second & fourth Thursday, 6:30 p.m. $10/class. Maria: mestrada1987@gmail.com. Tennis Tues., 6 p.m. Adult lessons. Chase Park, 28th Ave. and 53rd St. S. $15. Mo: 727515-1454.

Get the city app by visiting MyGulfport.us/cityapp theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

The Jolly Green Giant Is On Its Way

Ray Domingo Meets Fundraising Goal for Gulfport’s Giant Gecko Sculpture By Abby Baker

RAY DOMINGO

The sculpture is slated to be revealed this September.

Coming to a (Gulfport) Casino near you: a giant, green, gecko sculpture. On July 11, Gulfport artist Ray Domingo raised the final funds needed to build his 14-foot gecko sculpture that he hopes will serve as a music-playing photo opportunity in downtown Gulfport. “It feels good; I have some believers and they’re almost as excited as I am,” Domingo said. In May, Domingo received $16,000 from the City of Gulfport and was charged with raising the remaining $20,000. That’s a $36,000 gecko. Through private efforts, Domingo raised most of the funds in less than three months. On July 11, the Gulfport Merchants Chamber voted to donate $2,200 to the Domingo statue, leaving Domingo $800 short. GMC President Barbara Banno –

owner of Stella’s and co-owner of The Salty Nun – kicked in the final $1000, putting Domingo $200 over what he needed to build the gecko. “I always knew I wanted to be a part of the sculpture,” Banno told The Gabber. “It’s going to be a historic piece of art in our community that will last forever.” Domingo expects his gecko legacy should grace the west side of the Gulfport Casino by GeckoFest, which traditionally takes place the Saturday of Labor Day weekend. The City must still prepare and install the base for the sculpture, and Domingo must complete the sculpture. Right now, the skeleton of the giant lizard is in progress at Grand Theming in Tampa. There’s still a long way to go, but Domingo is optimistic. “You can quote me on this: ‘Yahoo!’” a happy Domingo told The Gabber Tuesday morning.

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theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

gabberlife 70 Years of the Libbys

Gulfport Couple Celebrate 70 Years of Love By Abby Baker

THE LIBBY FAMILY

Mr. and Mrs. Blair and Rita Libby are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on Sunday, July 17.

For nearly the last seven decades, Gulfport residents Blair and Rita Libby have been happily married. On Sunday, July 17 the couple will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. They’re not celebrating alone. Mr. and Mrs. Libby have five children, 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren who will help celebrate their seven decades of marriage at the Town Shores of Gulfport Clubhouse.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

For 35 years, the couple called Town Shores and its Gulf-view home. But before that, in 1952, Blair and Rita Libby (both Maine natives) wed in Baltimore, Maryland. They retired to Gulfport in 1987, and both currently live at The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay in South Pasadena. The Libbys and family invite all friends and neighbors of the couple to come help celebrate 70 years of love. The celebration starts at 2 p.m.

GULFPORT

Gulfport Brewery + Eatery 3007 Beach Blvd. S. Friday, July 15 Beck and Borst, 6 p.m. Saturday, July 16 Poly Essence, 6 p.m.

North End Tap House 2908 Beach Blvd. S. Thursday, July 14 Gage Mooney, 7 p.m. Saturday, July 16 Jordyn Zentz, 7 p.m.

The Tiki Bar & Grill at 56th & Shore 5519 Shore Blvd. S. Sunday, July 17 Hot Tonic, 6 p.m.

ST. PETE BEACH

Chill Restaurant and Bar 357 Corey Ave. Thursday, July 14 Farley Compton, 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 15 Carlos and Joe, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 16 Liz and Lisa, 6:30 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ka’Tiki Beach Bar and Grille

8803 W. Gulf Blvd. Thursday, July 14 The Ordeal, 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 15 Smooth D and the Boyz, 7 p.m. Saturday, July 16 The Gearz, 1 p.m.; Den of Thieves, 7 p.m. Sunday, July 17 Ploy Essence, 1 p.m.; Cornfused, 7 p.m.

MADEIRA BEACH

Lucky Lizard Taphouse 14953 Gulf Blvd. Thursday, July 14 DJ Trivia of Tampa, 7 p.m. Saturday, July 16 Chris Dupre, 7 p.m. Sunday, July 17 Larry Mott, 7 p.m.

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

things to do

Free

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Morean Art, LGBTQ+ Films + Ice Cream Festival Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events. Through July 30 Read with Her See the smart, feminine punk art of Florida-based artist Johanna Falzone at her solo exhibit, Johanna Falzone: Read with Me. This work from this exhibit came to Falzone after she immersed herself in books following the pandemic. Come see into her book-filled bedroom on canvas all month long. Morean Arts Center, 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Mon-Sat; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. moreanartscenter.org Thursday, July 14 Fun, Gay, and Free What’s better than free films? Free films that are iconic in the LGBTQ+ community. The LGBTQ+ Resource Center is hosting a LGBTQ+ film series with a new, fun, film every Thursday afternoon. First up: “Sordid Lives.” This 2000 comedy follows a gay West Hollywood actor returning to his small hometown in Texas for his grandmother’s funeral. Turns out, this family’s life is as sordid as the worst of us. Enjoy free popcorn, candy, and soft drinks along with the film. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 6 p.m. mygulfport.us/LGBTQ-Resources Happy Hour with a Historian How about a little history with your wine? The St. Petersburg Museum of History (the self-proclaimed oldest museum in Tampa Bay) is hosting its Happy Hour with a Historian event, hosted by Joshua Ginsberg, author of Secret Tampa Bay: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure, and he’ll share all his bizarre local knowledge over wine. Space is limited, register now. St Petersburg Museum of History, 335 2nd Ave NE., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. $10. historystpete.org

Poets, Unite It’s Poetry at The Dalí night this Thursday. This is an ongoing series by St. Petersburg Poet Laureate, Helen Pruitt Wallace, featuring several other local poets and their words. Stick around for a Q&A with the poets, Wallace included. The Dalí Museum, 1 Dalí Blvd, St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. thedali.org Friday, July 15 Run by the Sun(set) Florida runners know that it’s best to run after the sun goes down. Hosted by Madeira Beach Recreation Department, the Madeira Beach 5K Sunset Series invites runners, sprinters, and joggers to John’s Pass Park for a waterside 5K run. Post-race, the party heads to John’s Pass Hooters and includes food and beverages for participants. John’s Pass Park, 130th Ave. W., Madei-

ra Beach. 7 p.m. $25. eventeny. com/events/madeirabeach5ksunsetseries-2924 Saddle Tramp Come out for dancing, drinks, and a good time this weekend. Five-person country band Saddle Tramp is playing Gulfport. Gulfport American Legion Post #125, 6440 5th Ave. S. 6:30-9:30 p.m. centennial.legion.org/florida/post125 Saturday, July 16 Pulled Pork Night Maybe you’ve seen the staple Gulfport deli, The Funky Flamingo, when heading to downtown Gulfport. Inside, owner Anita Minshall McLaughlin needs customers. After struggling with COVID-19 related losses, the death of her son and his husband, and the rising cost of food and supplies, she’s asking for community support.

Things To Do continued on page 22

Gulfport Seeks Its Next Gecko Queen Gulfport residents 21 years and older who enjoy the spotlight and have a positive message to share with the community are invited to submit a video application, photos or a letter highlighting their love for Gulfport and their desire to be the next Gecko Queen.

Deadline: July 31st Email: jonziegler82@yahoo.com or info@visitgulfportflorida.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Things To Do continued from page 21 The Funky Flamingo is offering $10 plates of pulled pork dinners (with all the fixings) and a 50/50 raﬄe with tickets costing $5 each. The minimum prize is $50 for winners; the drawing commences at 5 p.m. Funky Flamingo, 1418 58th St., Gulfport. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $10. 727-873-3478 World Snake Day will not go unannounced! Celebrate slithering, scaly, stunning, snakes at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. There will be live animal encounters with some of the preserve’s more friendly residents, temporary snake tattoos, and crafts for kids. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg. 1-3 p.m. stpeteparksrec.org IndieFaire Hand-selected arts, plants, gifts and lovingly local creations all in one place, just once a month. Gulfport’s IndieFaire is back again for an outdoor market filled with summer offerings. Shop the stalls, meet locals, and dine downtown. Downtown Gulfport, Beach Boulevard South. 5-9 p.m. visitgulfportflorida.com Sunday, July 17 I Scream, You Scream, we all scream for a free ice cream festival in St. Pete. The Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival (held on National Ice Cream Day) will turn the St. Pete Pier into a frozen treat wonderland, with icy vendors, samples, and a Best Ice Cream in Tampa Bay contest. You’ll see scoops from Astro Craft Ice Cream, Hyppo Gourmet Popsicles, Mayday Ice Cream, and more. St. Petersburg Pier, 800 2nd Ave NE., St. Petersburg. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. facebook.com/ events/532495548252726 Play Dungeons & Dragons at South Pasadena bookstore every Sunday. The requirements to play? Bring your imagination to the D&D table. Books at Park Place, 6800 Gulfport Blvd S. #113, South Pasadena. 1-4 p.m. 727-388-9093

THE GABBER.COM 22

Monday, July 18 Plant Parents Step into the month-

ly Botanicals and Brews market for all your plant-based, green needs. The brewery’s outdoor garden will become a pop-up space for vendors and green thumbs every third Monday of the month. It’s not the only place you can shop with a local beer in your hand in Pinellas, but it’s a good one. Gulfport Brewery + Eatery, 3007 Beach Blvd S., Gulfport. 5-8 p.m. botanicalsandbrews@ gmail.com Tuesday, July 19 Practice in the Park Check out free tai chi in St. Pete. Every third Tuesday of the month, Healthy St. Pete offers an outdoor tai chi practice for the whole family. No registration required. 5801 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. Childs Park Meeting Talk about Childs Park at a neighborhood meeting meant to prompt an exchange of ideas. Have something to say about your neighborhood? Here’s a chance to address it alongside other residents. Childs Park Recreation Center, 4301 13th Ave. S., St. Pete. 6 p.m. facebook.com/MyChildsPark Need Inspiration? The ArtsXchange in St. Pete’s Warehouse District hosts a drawing lab with a live model present every Tuesday night. ArtsXchange provides easels and benches for easy sketching, and artists are expected to bring their own supplies and $10 for the model. ArtsXchange, 515 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 6:30 p.m. $10. facebook. com/artsxchange Thursday, July 21 Morning Shopping The annual St. Pete Sunrise Sale is back! This early morning shopping tradition invites pajama-clad shoppers to rampage through downtown St. Pete for good deals. A solid PJ set isn’t a must, but those who dress up are sometimes treated to an even better discount! Participating stores will are marked with yellow flags. See a map of shops online. Downtown St. Petersburg. Sunrise-TBD. stpetedowntownbiz.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

pets

Lightning

It’s a great day for hockey! Lightning and Bolt can’t wait to play fuzzy-ball hockey around someone’s home. This duo isn’t bonded, but they’re BFFs and would love to go home together. Lightning, a yearling, loves to love on you and get head scratches. He has a routine: He spends time in certain places in his room or doing different things at certain times. He also has a favorite sleeping box, and he loves it so much, he’s asked that his forever humans let him bring it home with him. He also loves to

Bolt

play, but he turns into a boisterous little bolt when he’s the center of attention. That’s where – you guessed it – Bolt comes in: Bolt helps Lightning get that energy out. Bolt’s a 2-year-old tabby-and-white male, and he’s the shelter’s star athlete. He practiced his sprints at his foster home and even at the shelter, he’s active, playful, and entertaining. Bolt loves Lightning, but he also loves helping his human with whatever they’re doing. He also loves to show off his big personality. Bolt and

Lightning are Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) positive; that means they can only be around other FeLV-positive cats. Friends of Strays staff can answer any questions adopters may have about bringing home a cat with FeLV. (Editor’s note: We have FeLV-positive kitties and it’s not a big deal.) All pets spayed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and dewormed. 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Pete. 727-522-6566; friendsofstrays.org.

Let Me Help ﬁnd the right Medicare plan for you!

A Little Good News Let us share your good news! Photos printed as space allows.

FREE

email: goodnews@thegabber.com New Baby • Engaged • Save The Date Student of the Month Dean's List • Graduation

Lisa Pence

Independent Sales Representative Florida License W566896

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Medicare Health Plans Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans Medicare Advantage Plans Part D Prescription Drug Plans

My assistance is 100% complimentary —there’s no cost to you!

Call 727-560-3674

lpence@jrstoner.com • LinkedIn: LisaPenceMedicare • TheStonerOrganization.com

the gabs What makes you feel nostalgic? Photos by Abby Baker

Kay Lehew, Gulfport: “‘90s music all day.”

Stacey Frey, St. Petersburg: “That grandma mothball smell.”

Jason Bradley, Tennessee: “Smells and music. But specifically that woodsy Tennessee smell.”

Doris Rosado, Gulfport: “Believe it or not, the beach. It reminds me of my days on the beach and I moved here to Gulfport for that reason. This is where I want to spend the rest of my days.”

EXPERIENCE COUNTS – AND SAVINGS ADD UP Find out about the Competitive Rates and Special Benefits available through our agency for all your insurance needs! Ready to learn more? Contact our agency now! Call today for your FREE, no obligation quote. HOME • FLOOD AUTO • BUSINESS COMMERCIAL

727-344-4500 6524 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

crossword

Solution on page 27

Aloft

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 27

O’DELL FAMILY

sudoku

Gulfportians Melinda and Bob O’Dell took The Gabber to Voyageurs National Park. This Minnesota national park was the 51st one they’d visited.

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

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

worship St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Afﬁliated with

10am with Holy Communion

Sunday Services 10AM Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00 For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net “You need not think alike to love alike.” - Francis David, 1534

uuunited.org

Sunday Service

St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

United Fellowship

Paradise Lutheran Church

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

727-360-5739

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

17th St. & 29th Ave N St. Petersburg 345-7777 Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

Special worship rates starting as low as $25/week. Send an email to: advertising@thegabber.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

solution

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

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS

Accounting

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

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 Cleaning / Housekeeping

Window Cleaning, Pressure Washing, Soft Washing, and more! Licensed and Insured

727-698-1213 Abccleanexteriors.com

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

Handy Person

COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838

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

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

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy helpers. Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Locally St. Pete /Gulfport: 407-2446045. James: 407-244-6045.

In-Home services: Internet security, training, virus & spyware removal, maintenance and repair, data recovery. (PC & Mac)

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493

Heating & Air Conditioning

2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

Electrical

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

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

727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

5030 78th Ave. N. Suite 12, Pinellas Park, FL 33781

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED

MAYNARD ELECTRIC

• Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Phone Wiring • Circuits Added • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More 24 Hour Service

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

EC-13008313

Specializing in AirBnb/VRBO, vacation rentals, and condos. Glenda 863-205-0944 Leslie 863-512-3445

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

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

Home Improvement

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

Residential/Commercial. All phases of remodeling or renovations. Roofs, kitchens, baths, room additions, new construction, doors, windows, stone or concrete work, flooring, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727410-7323.

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Home Improvement

Moving / Hauling

DARCY ROOFING LLC

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & trash removal. Low, low prices guaranteed. Daily specials. Kitchen, bath, shed, fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-831-0507.

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.

SKIP’S MOVING & PICK-UP DELIVERY Mondays and Tuesdays. Have 14 foot box truck, willing to help. I’m the guy who moves everybody in and out of Town Shores. 727-3203297.

Lawn & Landscape

Painting

TREE SERVICE BY PAYLESS

MASTERS PAINTING * WHEN QUALITY COUNTS

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

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

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

Trust Masters Painting. Making happy customers for 42 yrs. Pressure cleaning, waterproofing, honest, reliable. 727-3441674 or 727-510-6804. References, guaranteed. Lic.#C4749.

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.

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

Planting • Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Cabling/Bracing • Pruning/Shaping

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.

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

Miscellaneous Service THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out. Recycling, organizing, and yard work. Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/ text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

Help Wanted

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS - GULFPORT MERCHANTS CHAMBER

HELP WANTED Handicapped Veteran needs help driving around and with shopping and small errands. Has Jeep Cherokee you can use. Call Joe H. 727-919-6097.

Card of Thanks POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After 3 days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted, without mentioning the favor, only your initials should appear at the bottom. 4AA POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, You who solves all problems, You who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, You who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me. In all instances of my life You are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank You for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from You, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with You in eternal glory. Thank You for Your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days. After three days the favor requested will be granted even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted without mentioning the favor. Only your initials should appear r at the bottom. -JMC For Sale

FOR SALE PICK UP ONLY

Whirlpool washer and dryer, large size, works great, $200 for pair. Frigidaire refrigerator/ freezer, 30”x60”, perfect for garage - $75. Call or text 727-504-9356 for details. GRAVE LOTS Royal Palm South, two side by side. Best area, $6,000 value. $2,500 for both. Call Dick: 727-345-4323 FISHING YARD SALE July 15 - 17, Clearview Oaks. 40th Ave on corner of 55 St N, Kenneth City. 8 a.m. 4 p.m.

Gulfport Merchants Chamber is seeking a full-time Director of Operations to foster relationships among the business community, advocate on their behalf, and support economic growth in Gulfport. A job description and application are available at visitgulfportflorida.com/careers. Submit resumes to careers@visitgulfportflorida.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

General

WE MIGHT HAVE YOUR PHOTO

We found a bunch of physical photos from our Take the Gabber on Vacation feature. We don’t want to trash your photos, so call 727321-6965 and give Patrick your name. He’ll check for your photo and get it back to you. GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341.

MUSIC SOOTHES

Over 50 CDs. Everything from Manhattan Transfer to Arsenio Rodriguez to Bach. $50 OBO. Emily: 727-599-4258. Legal Notices FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Barbara L Shelby, owner, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Oh My Goodness Gracious, located in Pinellas County, Florida, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State, pursuant to section 865.09 of the Florida Statutes. Yard / Garage Sale YARD SALE Sat. July 16 and Sun. July 17, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 5620 29th Ave S., Gulfport. Patio furniture, books, clothing, mason jars, potted plants, bookcases, dishes, furniture, mirrors, household items, art and baskets. No early birds. MOVING SALE Saturday, July 16, 8:30 a.m - 3 p.m. 2563 Roy Hanna Drive S., St. Petersburg. Furniture, home decorations, housewares, clothing, shoes, yard equipment, and tools.

Furnished Rentals 1BD/1BA WATERFRONT LOWER UNIT ON SHORE BLVD. Cozy, fully furnished. Private patio with water view. 1 parking space, cable, utilities included. Laundry. Small non-shedding dog welcome. $1950/month. Available: 9/15/22- 1/3/23. 60 day minimum. Contact jenm@hjmholdings.com; text 619-458-0022.

PAY LESS TO SELL YOUR HOME! Only 3-4% Commission!

Jeff Thomsen, Realtor Realean Real Estate

727-222-0099 JeffThomsen.com

Place your classified line ads online! Deadline for classified ads is 3 p.m. Friday for the following week’s issue.

I LIVE and SPECIALIZE in Town Shores... Reduced

GROTON #304 FANTASTIC MARINA & WATER VIEW! UPDATED 2BR/1BA - TONS OF STORAGE

$297,500

DIPLOMAT #805 SPECTACULAR OPEN WATER VIEW! RARE 2BR/2BA SPLIT FLOOR PLAN MOTIVATED SELLER!

OLD S$399,900

Real Estate Wanted

SLR MOBILE HOME RESALES

We specialize in sales in mobile homes on lease land (mobile home parks). Thinking of selling? Exposure is everything - our experience and marketing tools will sell your home. Will list your mobile home today. Call Thomas Morrow 727-859-6500.

Real Estate For Rent FOR RENT: 6940 SUNSET Building A, #1A, $1100/month, one bedroom apartment furnished. Can be occupied by July 20. $1100 security. Shown by appointment. No pets. Basic cable, W/S/T included. Annual lease, must be approved by condo board. Call 727-347-8298. Real Estate For Sale CONDO FOR SALE IN PASADENA 55+ complex, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, spectacular water view. Low maintenance, close to beaches, restaurants, shopping, bus line, and hospital. Call 702-771-1587 for details.

Let us share your good news! Photos printed as space allows. Free. email: goodnews@thegabber.com. New Baby • Engaged Save The Date • Graduation Student of the Month • Dean's List

theGabber.com

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

Real Estate Snapshots

Here’s What Sold in Gulfport Last Week

MELANIE KING

6020 Shore Blvd. S. #912 (Town Shores) This 1974 condo has 2,210 square feet, three bedrooms, and two and a half baths. It listed for $605,000 and sold for $581,000.

Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week

6020 Shore Blvd. S. #511 (Town Shores) This 1974 condo has 1,450 square feet, two bedrooms, and two baths. It listed for $525,000 and sold for $485,000.

It's still a good time to sell your home! SMACK DAB IN THE ARTS DISTRICT!

BY THE SEA, BY THE BEAUTIFUL SEA

INCOME, INCOME, INCOME

SOLD

2619 56th St S

PENDING

4716 29th Ave S 6020 Shore Blvd #904 2-1-1 Garage

$399,000

3-2-1

4-3 Corner Lot

544 72nd Ave S

2802 Clinton St S

$1.28M

5302 29th Ave S

2902 Beach Blvd S.

$775,000

www.GulfportRealty.com

STILL AVAILABLE 1407 York St S 3-2 Block $367.000

(727) 289-5500

#1 Listing Agency in Gulfport! theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022

theGabber.com | July 14, 2022 - July 20, 2022