The Gabber: July 22, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2718

July 22 - July 28, 2021

Off to Find the Lizards

By Abby Baker

ABBY BAKER

Artists Zora deBodisco, Kim Bonney and Art & Seek organizer Kelli Lapuma show off their hidden creations.

Do you have a passion for the hunt?

This year, Gulfport’s annual Gecko World festivities will be complemented by a grassroots art “hide and seek” event organized by hometown artists.

The premise is simple: Artists create their geckothemed pieces and at 9 a.m. on Saturday, August 7 they

will hide the lizards locally for “seekers” to discover until the cutoff at 5 p.m.

With gecko-inspired paintings, jewelry and figurines buried around Gulfport – largely in the downtown area – organizers will post pre-photos and live clues on the public Facebook page.

Gecko continued on page 18

Love the Gabber? There’s always more online!

This week, find red tide updates for South Pinellas, help for small businesses in St. Pete and more Gabber goodness at thegabber.com.

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Bogie, Bradley and Busing: Part 4 P.4

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

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info@thegabber.com

Reporters & Contributors Abby Baker, News & Events Jeff Donnelly, Theater Sheree Greer, Advice June Johns, Photographer Jon Kile, Columnist Ryan McGahan, News Gabrielle Reeder, Gabs & News Nano Riley, Environment Jen Ring, Food & Culture Morgan Banno, Food

Social Media Leah Petrakis

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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 Perturbed By Poo

Dear Editor: I have been walking my dog at Wood Ibis Park for many years and for the past three years I have noticed that someone, first with little green doggy bags, now blue ones, has been disposing of them in the plastic bag holder placed there for people without a bag to get one for themselves. It is obviously not a doggy poop bin and probably contaminates the clean bags placed there for everyone’s use. Hopefully the culprit will see this message and stop doing it. As for me, I check it everyday and remove the offending bags with doggy poop in them. Also the owner must have a small dog, because these are small bags. – Pat Dunham

Good Work, Gabber

Dear Editor: I want to tell you how very much I’m enjoying the new Gabber format! The series on school integration has been so informative. I am enjoying the artist highlights as well. Keep up the good work! – Paulette Szlivko

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The Gabber welcomes and encourages letters and commentary. All letters must be signed with your real name, and should be as brief as possible. Letters may be lightly edited for content and clarity. We will not print letters that incite violence, include hate speech 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.

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news Bogie, Bradley and Busing

The Story of Pinellas County School Integration A nine-part series exclusive to the Gabber Part 4: The Busing Battle Begins Leon W. Bradley Sr. worked as a Clearwater police officer, served as the vice president of that city’s NAACP branch, and watched the county’s strategy proceed at a snail’s pace. Boycotts and demonstrations had led to the peaceful desegregation of some St. Petersburg stores and luncheonettes by 1961, but public schools remained segregated.

That summer, two African American students enrolled at St. Petersburg Junior College. In the fall of 1961, another Black student enrolled at the Tomlinson Adult Education Center near Mirror Lake. The school board had denied more than 900 other applications by Black parents to switch schools in 1961. Only three Black students integrated schools in September 1962.

A year later, a total of 118 Black students attended 10 formerly allwhite schools. Although the increase between 1962 and 1963 sounds substantial, in reality it exemplified the approach of tokenism: Adding a single student of a different race allowed the district to claim a school had integrated. That fall, 57,124 white and 10,197 non-white students enrolled in Pinellas public schools. Shifting only 118 students seemed like scant progress.

PINELLAS COUNTY SCHOOLS

By James A. Schnur

Desegregation had not occurred at Boca Ciega Senior High School, Disston Junior High School (a few blocks to the east) or Gulfport Elementary School by 1963. Although Black families had slowly started to move into areas such as Childs Park and Fairmount Park, none of their children crossed 49th Street to enter these campuses. Similarly, no Black students attended North-

east High School (opened in 1954) or Dixie Hollins Comprehensive High School (opened in 1959).

The year Dixie opened, Dr. Ralph Wimbish assumed the presidency of St. Petersburg’s NAACP branch.

He joined various Black ministers in combating Jim Crow. That fall, an NAACP representative accompanied 11 Black students who ventured to the newly-opened Dixie Hollins

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

campus in an unsuccessful attempt to enroll. They rebelled against a system that denied them a chance to become Dixie Hollins Rebels.

Their visit prompted an immediate response. White supremacists marched around with wooden replicas of rifles while barking out threats. The message a minister found on one of these rifles was blunt and clear: “Death to all race mixers! Keep your public schools white by massive armed force – Be a Paul Revere! Rally your neighbors to arms. Shoot the race-mixing invaders.”

Rather than retreat, Wimbish’s wife tried a different strategy. In March 1960, C. Bette Wimbish campaigned for a seat on the county school board. She appealed to constituents by talking about their pocketbooks, reminding them of the costs involved to maintain dual facilities.

Wimbish lost the election but her message gained some local traction: She received approximately 10,000 votes in a district with fewer than 4,000 Blacks registered to cast ballots.

A Junior College Takes Big Steps Bette Wimbish’s message would never appeal to the fiscal conservatives who dominated Tallahassee. Although lawmakers regularly prided themselves on the state’s low-tax, small government habits,

Floyd Christian and the school disthey spared no expense to perpettrict responded by getting the leguate racial segregation, even after islature to fund a the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1954 Brown “Lawmakers...spared new college on the campus of Gibbs decision had outno expense to perpet- High School. When lawed it.

When Black stu- uate racial segrega- Gibbs Junior Coldents tried to enroll tion, even after the U.S. lege opened in the in Florida’s junior Supreme Court’s 1954 fall of 1957, its eight faculty and 210 stucolleges, the state Brown decision had dents used the high found the funds to school’s buildings create a dozen new outlawed it.” during the late afinstitutions. Some ternoons and evenings. of these Jim Crow junior colleges Funds long denied to Gibbs High were collegiate in name only. miraculously appeared at Gibbs JC. The smallest ones occupied litNew buildings opened in 1958. The tle more than a couple of rooms in high school’s former principal, John an all-Black high school. In Jackson William Rembert, served as the colCounty along the Panhandle, 1,078 lege president. Under his leadership, white students attended Chipola enrollment more than tripled during Junior College in 1963; a short disthe institution’s first two years. tance away, 77 Black students repRather than limit enrollment to resented the entire enrollment of Blacks in Pinellas County, Rembert Jackson Junior College. and his faculty embarked on a stratSimilarly, state taxpayers and Putegy to build a larger student base. nam County residents subsidized Buses played an important role in the 74 Blacks who made up the stuRembert’s plans. School districts in dent body at Collier-Blocker Junior neighboring Hillsborough and ManCollege to keep them from mingling atee counties soon offered buses so with 855 students at St. Johns RivBlack high school graduates could er Junior College in Palatka. These attend Gibbs JC. Subsidies kept the separate campuses illustrated the costs affordable, even in 1963 dollars. lengths Florida’s politicians went to In the fall of that year, Pinellas County keep white schools white. residents could attend Gibbs full-time Closer to home, the Pinellas Counfor $93; students from Hillsborough ty School District managed St. Pepaid an extra service fee for regular tersburg Junior College. After Black buses that ran to campus. students attempted to enroll at “Fifth Avenue U,” Superintendent Bogie continued on page 6

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Bogie continued from page 5

Rembert’s choice for the speaker at Gibbs JC’s first-ever graduation ceremony made a powerful statement. Rather than choosing a minister or some paternalistic white politician, he selected Branch Rickey, then-general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. When he was GM of the Brooklyn Dodgers, Rickey had signed Jackie Robinson to a contract that later allowed him to break the color barrier in Major League Baseball.

On June 3, 1959, Rickey offered a memorable message to the 61 Black students earning their associate degrees: “You can’t attack prejudice with words, but proximity does wonderful things if you are worthy and can do the job better than anyone else.”

On March 14, 1960 whites flocked to the Gibbs JC auditorium. At a time when no college in the Tampa Bay region had integrated classes or faculties, they came to hear Eleanor Roosevelt talk about America’s role as a world leader. Whites made up the majority of the audience, comfortably sitting in a facility alongside Blacks at a time when such gatherings did not happen in classrooms, cinemas or restaurants.

So many wanted to attend the public lecture that hundreds were turned away from the overcrowded

facility. Immediately after Rembert introduced Roosevelt, security officers quickly ushered the 2,000 people in attendance out of the venue due to a bomb scare. Twenty minutes later, everyone reassembled for the program. Gibbs JC had once again defied politicians and racists who wanted to keep people separate.

Leon Bradley did not attend Rickey’s commencement address or Roosevelt’s speech. He never took a class with Marjorie Carr when she became Gibbs JC’s first white instructor in September 1961.

Neither did he enroll at the campus four years later when the 64 faculty at Gibbs JC (including one Chinese and seven white professors) taught 946 students, nearly 30% of the total enrollment for all of Florida’s Jim Crow junior colleges.

Nevertheless, he got the message. The senior Bradley wanted his son to attend the new John F. Kennedy Junior High School slated to open in the fall of 1964, rather than Pinellas Junior-Senior High.

Less than 1½ miles separated these campuses, but Bradley saw immeasurable potential for his son at Kennedy.

Bradley met with five other Black parents from Clearwater, one from St. Petersburg and an ambitious attorney who filed a lawsuit on their behalf on May 7, 1964. Ironically, their lawsuit – Bradley v.

Board of Public Instruction of Pinellas County – led to an order that closed Gibbs Junior College a couple of years later. St. Petersburg Junior College assumed control of the site that was briefly known as the “Skyway Campus” before it shut down.

Twenty years ago, St. Petersburg College subtracted the “Junior” from its name. However, SPC also added something when it renamed the flagship campus at 5th Avenue North and 66th Street “St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus.”

This act honored a place conceived to perpetuate segregation that nevertheless offered African Americans an opportunity to pursue higher education. Some Gibbs JC graduates even rode a bus.

Join us next week as Bogie finally integrates and tensions accelerate.

James A. Schnur graduated from Boca Ciega High as a member of the inaugural class that experienced Pinellas school desegregation from first through twelfth grades. To comply with court-ordered busing, he rode the bus for four of those years.

He’s written five books about Pinellas communities and has also lectured and published about Florida and Florida education history.

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Dear Gabby: Can I Be Friends With My Ex?

By Sheree Greer

the exchange in which he swore at The Gabber’s semi-regular adyour wife, I’d just say if you’re convice column, Dear Gabby, is here cerned about him by reader demand.

Have a question or a “Friendship with an ex and miss the friendconundrum for Gab- can be difficult to navi- ly rapport, consider him if he’s by? There’s no probgate, particularly if the asking all right or even ask lem too small for our resident advisor. parting was less than him if something’s wrong because you Send your questions amicable.” miss the short chats – they can be anonand neighborly smiles. If his newly ymous – to deargabby@thegabber. acquired bad mood is just a curicom. ous change but doesn’t really affect your day-to-day, ignore him and I have a neighbor problem. When leave him to his misery. we moved in five years ago, our neighbor across the street was suIs it a good idea to be friends with per friendly, always saying hello your ex? We broke up more than and stopping to chat. But we must a year ago, and the other day she have done something to offend texted me to go to an art exhibit him, because now he won’t even she knew I would like. We haven’t look at us and the other day for seen each other since the break no reason, he swore at my wife! Is up – and I’m definitely over it – he crazy? Are we crazy? I’m a little but there was a reason we startscared to ask. I feel like I have to at ed dating in the first place: We get least try to get along? along well and like a lot of the same things. I miss her friendship, but I Two of “The Four Agreements” by don’t need any drama!

Don Miguel Ruiz came to mind with this question. “Don’t take anything Friendship with an ex can be diffipersonally” and “Don’t make ascult to navigate, particularly if the sumptions.” Your neighbor could parting was less than amicable or be experiencing something in his there are residual feelings. But difown life that’s got him soured to ficult doesn’t mean impossible. If the world, and it may very well have there isn’t any resentment between nothing at all to do with you or your the two of you, and there aren’t any wife. Without more context about

closet longings for what once was, then a friendship is possible. This art exhibit can be a test run to see if your friendship has survived the failed romance. If it feels weird or forced, if messy feelings surface or mixed signals show themselves, you’ll know that a friendship won’t work out. Give it a try, but don’t feel bad if it turns out that it’s best to move on altogether.

A Milwaukee native, Sheree L. Greer is a local textbased artist, educator and taco lover. In 2014, she founded Kitchen Table Literary Arts to showcase and support the work of Black women and women of color writers and is the author of two novels, “Let the Lover Be” and “A Return to Arms.”

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Naturally Florida

A New Nature Podcast Answers Your Questions After our long year in shutdown, most folks are itching to get away – even if it’s close to home. What better way to shed some stress than to get out into nature? You don’t have to go far to find gems like Brooker Creek Preserve in North Pinellas, and Weedon Island and Boyd Hill even closer for residents of South Pinellas.

But before you head out, you might want to brush up on what’s out there.

Natural Florida may have a few surprises for you, especially if you’re one of the state’s many new residents.

Now, there’s a podcast to answer those pesky questions, like, “Is there an alligator in that lake?” (The answer is always “yes.”)

“Naturally Florida” is all about the Sunshine State’s natural wonders, with two enthusiastic hosts eager to tell us about it: Lara Milligan and Shannon Carnevale, natural resources agents for UF/IFAS Extension in

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NOSFERATTUS

By Nano Riley

Polk and Pinellas counties, respectively.

“Our goal is to keep it fun, understandable, and get people excited about getting out in nature,” said Milligan, from her Brooker Creek Preserve

office in North Pinellas County.

Milligan and Carnavale are both avid educators and they’ve had this podcast in the works for a couple of years. They recently launched it, and now have three informative offerings

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

available, each at an easy, listenable 15 to 20 minutes – perfect for boning up on what you’re off to see.

“We’re doing one a month,” said Milligan. “Right now we just want to get the word out that we’re available on most platforms like Apple and Spotify.”

“Naturally Florida” is a fun listen.

Milligan and Carnavale know their stuff, and teach us about aspects of Florida the tourist brochures don’t cover. Episode 1, “Lara’s Favorite Species – Green Anoles,” (pronounced “uh-noles”) explains Florida’s native green anoles, and their ubiquitous, nonnative look-alike, the brown anole, a migrant from Cuba; Episode 2, “Where Does Water Go After It Falls?” covers the journey of rainwater after it hits the ground.

Upcoming topics include exploring Florida’s wildlife species and ecosystems, and issues addressing our natural resources. Each episode offers ways listeners can help make a positive impact on Florida’s environment.

Milligan and Carnavale want to answer your questions – so email them!

Search for “Naturally Florida” at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu or wherever you get your podcasts.

Who Knew?

The third episode, titled, “What? We Have Fireflies in Florida?” is a fascinating exploration of the life of these remarkable insects and where we can see them in Florida.

Carnavale explains the life cycle, and why we seldom see them around Pinellas. There’s too much light, she says, advising listeners to query the local astronomy club – “they know where it’s really dark“ – and that’s where there may be fireflies.

There’s even information on starting a firefly colony in your own yard, though you should prepare for a lengthy process of three to four years in the grub stage before transformation into a magical firefly.

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plants? You can now show your support for our noble palmettos and other natives with a new license plate from the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) “The legislature approved a bill,” said Valerie Anderson, communications director for the FNPS, “Now the state’s 33 chapters are ready to help and encourage interest in native Florida plants.”

The plate, designed by Florida artist Peter Argardy, features a variety of native plants in camouflage colors, with the palmetto front and center.

The new fundraising effort needs prepaid vouchers to produce the license plate, available at any county tax collector’s office, through the FNPS or online. The cost of the voucher is $33, and the state will print the plate when 3,000 vouchers are sold.

“I’m excited for the FNPS to get wider exposure with this new license plate,” said Anderson.

Learn more about the Florida Native Plant Society at fnps.org.

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myptc.edu 9

Need a Ride to Work?

PSTA Provides Free and Low-Cost Transportation to Beach Businesses In 2014, as a way to get college kids to beach jobs, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) expanded their network of free and low-cost transportation options for beach staff to get to work. While the service industry struggles to maintain staff, beach businesses are hoping this option may help.

“The hospitality industry is really coming back, especially in Pinellas County, in a big way, now that we’re kind of getting our way out of the pandemic. But at the same time, everybody is desperate to hire more people, and retain the ones they have and not have them leave for an Amazon job, or some other kind of job,” Brad Miller, CEO of PSTA said.

PSTA programs include the TD Late [Transportation Disadvantaged] shift – a discounted ride from an Uber, Lyft or a United Taxi – totaling nine dollars per customer per month. The Corporate Pass (C pass for trolley rides) allows businesses to offer their workers trolley transportation from St. Petersburg and surrounding areas to their place of work on the beach.

“This partnering with public transportation, or giving employees a very low-cost, easy way to get to and from, to get access, can be a real advantage to attracting employees from the mainland out there. Without a lot of expense for giving them a parking space,” Miller said.

Transportation programs ex-

PSTA

By Gabrielle Reeder

A PSTA employee helps a beach worker get on transport to their job.

panded in 2020 with the new program: Mobility on Demand. This provides disabled workers an alternative option to get to work if public transportation is not feasible. This program costs $3.50 per ride.

Charles Fischer, a disabled South Pasadena resident who works at a resort in Treasure Island, relies on

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the TD Late Shift and Mobility on Demand daily.

“Those are life-saving rides because it’s very difficult to get a bus – with the pandemic it’s very difficult with the bus system – but I use the TD Late Shift program that starts after 9 p.m. So that works out perfectly to get me home,” Fischer said.

According to Fischer, the application and approval process through the PSTA was easy. All he needed to provide was proof of work, his schedule, his home and destination addresses.

“I couldn’t express my gratitude to PSTA and the workers that have worked with me and helped me get the applications in. They have been more than accommodating and understanding, they actually want to help you,” Fischer said. “I am so, so fortunate that I’ve been able to utilize these programs.”

More at psta.net/programs.

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

11

Feedback Wanted on $45 Million

St. Pete Says Use of American Rescue Plan Funds is Community’s Call Have an idea of how to spend $45 million? The City of St. Petersburg wants to hear from you.

The city is hosting several community workshops to hear from residents about how best to use $45 million in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. Mayor Rick Kriseman’s office organized the fund’s potential uses into eight categories: infrastructure, housing affordability, health equity, economic development, leisure services, public safety, transportation and resilience sustainability.

“Feedback collected during these workshops will be aggregated and directly influence the ranking of priorities for receiving funds,” the city stated in a press release.

The workshops themselves will consist of each category, or area of impact, outlined by subject experts before the community breaks into sessions to prioritize them.

CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG

By Abby Baker

“I would say the City of St. Pete has a very vocal and outspoken community, which is a good thing to have an engaged community,” said Ben Kirby, the mayor’s communications director. “Whenever we make these big decisions, we want to have an open forum for community response.”

The American Rescue Plan Act, a $1.9 trillion stimulus plan, in part distributes relief to communities to alleviate economic losses generated by the coronavirus.

Community Workshops Monday, July 26, 6-8 p.m., Enoch Davis Center, 1111 18th Ave. S. Tuesday, July 27, 6-8 p.m., JW Cate Rec Center, 5801 22nd Ave. N. Wednesday, July 28, 6-8 p.m., Willis S. Johns Rec Center, 6635 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N. The City of St. Petersburg’s website will post video of the presentation, paired with an online feedback form on Thursday, July 29 for those unable to attend.

More at stpete.org/ARPA.

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

Gulfport Police Chief Tests Positive for COVID-19

By Abby Baker

GULFPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT

Wednesday night, July 14, Gulfport’s Police Chief Robert Vincent began experiencing COVID-19 symptoms; on Thursday, July 15, he tested positive for coronavirus.

According to Vincent, he did not receive the COVID-19 vaccine; it’s unclear if he will do so following his recent diagnosis.

“It was a personal choice I made,” Vincent said on Friday of not getting the vaccine.

Commander Joshua Stone will take the chief’s place for the mandatory 10 days of absence, Vincent said.

City Manager Jim O’Reilly confirmed that the City of Gulfport is aware of the chief’s condition, but his office told the Gabber on Friday, July 16, that the city manager “cannot and will not speak on personal issues.”

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

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Renaissance Dad: A Break from the Kids That sound you don’t hear is our kids at camp. Oh, yes, the house is quiet this morning. For the first time in 16 months, my wife and I can reasonably expect our kids to be out of the house for the better part of the day.

Sure, there have been a few short periods without the ever-present companionship of our offspring.

There was the time they both went down to the neighbor’s house at the same time and we said, “We’ll be right there,” but we were lying. There have been many fleeting moments — brief, irregular and unplanned.

My wife and I made some choices that enhanced our COVID parenting experience: We decided to homeschool, and we’ve spent a cumulative five months of this pandemic traveling in our RV where our habitat shrank to a small room on wheels.

But, the road has also been our escape, where the kids can roam new, expansive spaces so that their parents can relax with a book and a cup of coffee.

Alas, this morning is the first day of a new era. One in which camps and schools become our routine again. I don’t really care about the other aspects of the “new normal” — the things that won’t go back to their pre-pandemic state like readily available Ubers, going to work sick, and vaccines being a widely accepted tool for preventive healthcare — we can again send our kids off into the care of others.

I mean, seriously. This started without warning! It wasn’t like we

JON KILE

By Jon Kile

had a month to prepare for the fact that we were suddenly going to be sentenced to full-time parenting. We were like astronauts who weren’t told this rocket ship was going to Mars instead of the moon.

One day in March 2020 they closed schools for “two weeks.” While everyone else was cleaning out the toilet paper aisle, I was buying a cheap, above ground pool. We didn’t know that “two weeks” was a low guess, like when someone guesses “$1” on “The Price is Right” because everyone else’s estimate is so woefully wrong.

School administrator: How long should we tell them we’re closing school?

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Epidemiologist: Tell them we have no idea.

School administrator: Very funny.

An educated guess?

Epidemiologist: Well, I’m sure everyone will listen to the experts, so things should be normal by fall.

School administrator: Fall 2020!

Are you insane? Can we just say “two weeks” and ask you again later?

Epidemiologist: Knock yourself out.

I don’t want to sound too cynical. It hasn’t been all torture. There have been some really memorable times, like when our son cried tears of gratitude after my wife helped him understand a math concept that had long frustrated him or when our daughter nonchalantly coined the term “cautious like McClellan” in reference to the embattled Civil War general.

We’ve been fortunate during the pandemic. Healthy, safe, and secure. And we’ve learned a lot about everyone’s needs and differences.

The growth we’ve made as a family, and the reliance, the love and the support is something that we can all carry as we go out into the world.

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

crime Crash Blocks Gulfport Boulevard

By Abby Baker

CATHY SALUSTRI

Despite damages to the two vehicles involved in a collision in the 5300 block of Gulfport Boulevard at 3:34 p.m., Friday, July 16, neither driver went to the hospital at the time of the crash.

According to Gulfport Police Department Public Information Officer Thomas Woodman, a white Chevy

pickup truck was stopped for a turn onto 54th Street when a blue Honda Fit struck it. The crash dispersed a large amount of debris in the road, including several white real estate sign posts that had been in the truck bed. The incident blocked both the east and westbound lanes of Gulfport Boulevard Friday, prompting

police to divert traffic into early evening while they cleared the scene.

The driver of the Honda was cited for careless driving.

“Neither driver was treated on the scene,” Woodman said. “The driver of the truck complained of neck pains, but he did not go to the hospital at that time.”

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arts

Gecko continued from cover

ABBY BAKER

“It’s like getting a piece of someone’s personality as a treasure,” Lapuma said. “It’s sort of personal.”

“Everyone loves a treasure hunt,” Gecko Art & Seek Organizer Kelli Lapuma said. “We’re hoping this brings people together.”

Though not affiliated with the official Gecko World sponsor, the Gulfport Merchants Chamber, the reptilian scavenger hunt seeks to bring together Gulfport’s liz-

ard-loving community before the main events in August.

Hide and Seek The idea started with mushrooms.

Lapuma is responsible for a Gulfport treasure hunt called “Game of Shrooms” that invited artists and art

finders to engage in a similar premise, but with fungi-themed creations on June 12.

The mushroom hunt was part of a larger worldwide event – artist Attaboy’s Game of Shrooms – which led international art hunters to find hidden relics and post them on the site.

Lapuma herself hid mushroom paintings at the Gulfport Public Library behind a book about truffles.

“It’s so much fun to watch people find things,” Lapuma said.

That event inspired Lapuma to organize a Gecko-themed art drop.

“It’s like getting a piece of someone’s personality as a treasure,” Lapuma said. “It’s sort of personal.”

A New Tradition

This year, there are at least seven creators donating their time and art for the hunt. Each artist plans to hide a multitude of options throughout Gulfport.

“A particular resident in Gulfport – she’s passed now – used to hide

18

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

ABBY BAKER

ABBY BAKER ABBY BAKER

art and tell everyone to go find it,” Gecko Art & Seek artist Zora deBodisco said. “‘Game of Shrooms’ reminded me of that.”

Some creators were drawn to the idea because of its similarities to the popular 2000’s trend of geocach-

ABBY BAKER

Gecko Art & Seek brings artists and art-lovers together in a Gulfport-wide hunt for hidden lizards.

The event will start at 9 a.m. Saturday, August 7 and give seekers the chance to find art pieces.

ing. Participants found “treasures” through GPS coordinates posted on one main website.

“I used to hide things all over Pennsylvania,” said artist Kim Bonney. “It’s just a fun concept.”

Hiders and seekers are invited to

an after-event the same day that will connect “behind the screen” interactions. A time and location is to be determined.

To participate, search for “GeckoFest Gecko Art n Seek 2021” on Facebook and ask to join the fun.

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Celebrate

National Marina Day at the Gulfport Municipal Marina

Information Booths

Saturday, July 24, 2021 11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• U.S. Coast Guard Flotilla 7-16 • Boat Owners Association of the U.S. • Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission • Gulfport Municipal Marina • Gulfport Police Departments Marine Police

schedule of events

BBQ COOKOUT 11 A.M. - 2 P.M. Sponsored By: O’MADDY’S Bar & grille

• 11 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. - Cast net Demonstration (By: Capt. Zack Arnold) • 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. - Kids Fishing Derby (By: GP Teen council) • 12 P.M. - 12:30 P.M. - Lite Tackle Tactic seminar (By: Capt. DAN Bumgarner) • 1 P.M. - 2 P.M. - Charter Trip Raffle’s • 2:30 P.M. - 3:30 P.M. - Gulfport Marina Tours

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

Circling the Sun

New 30-Foot Sun Sculpture Towers Over EDGE District Drivers and sidewalk-goers in downtown St. Petersburg have likely speculated about the 30-foot, stone sun sculpture that shrinks surrounding buildings and its platform, a roundabout in the city’s bustling EDGE district.

New York-based and Isreali-born sculptor, Ilan Averbuch, created the massive, gear-like fixture for the otherwise-normal roundabout at Central Avenue at 11th Street.

Averbuch, one of 94 creators who applied to create on the space, calls the sculpture an ode to Florida weather, titled “The Sun on the EDGE.” The piece was completed in June, with a city-led ribbon cutting on Thursday, July 15.

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Towering on the EDGE The industrial, almost primitive statue of a sunset, bottomed with a darkened granite and steel partial reflection, gives those passing through Central no choice but to circle the sun.

The head-turning aspect is exactly what Averbuch wanted.

“It’s wonderful to be in the center of town where all the traffic has to slowly make their way around,” Averbuch said. “It’s sort of like a stage.”

The stone sun’s price tag sits at nearly $200k, pulled from the Intown West Community Redevelopment Area tax increment funds approved for streetscape improvements.

“Based on this incredible piece of artwork, and on the social media comments, it’s been a tremendous success really in doing what art does best – it sparks conversation,” Krisman said of Averbuch’s work.

Additions like Averbuch’s towering sunset piece are part of the city’s plan to expand culture and public art in less colorful areas.

“It’s important for art to be all over the city of St. Petersburg, not just the waterfront or the heart of downtown,” said Krisman at the official dedication on Thursday.

St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Krisman, second from right, and other city officials headed the July 15 dedication with sculptor IIan Averbuch, holding scissors.

Created by Cranes How did Averbuch create such a massive art piece in the middle of a traffic hotspot?

The installation consists of more than 40 tons of stones, each one weighing from 1,500 to 1,700

pounds, held together in four points with a metal interior.

The sculpture was welded and finally raised with a crane, with temporary lane closures to get the job done.

“I work with stone; I work with this form often,” Averbunch said. “There is a magical moment involved.”

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GULFPORT Neptune Grill

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Saturday, July 24: Janie and Lenny Duo 6-9 p.m.

In collaboration with the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, with support provided by the Art Bridges Foundation, the Museum of Fine Arts is proud to present three films centered on LGBTQ artists, filmmakers, and allies and their role in advancing conversations about art, social justice, and queer visibility.

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Jimmy B’s Beach Bar

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Friday, July 23: Swipe Right 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m.

Saturday, July 24: Bully 4 U 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m.

The Toasted Monkey

KENNY SCHARF: WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE FRIDAY, JULY 23

7 PM (VIRTUAL SCREENING) FREE FOR MFA MEMBERS; NOT-YET MEMBERS $5 FOLLOWED BY A DIRECTOR Q&A

678 75th Ave. Friday, July 23: Flyte Band 6-10 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: More is More 1-5 p.m., 22N 6-10 p.m.

Woody’s Waterfront

7308 Sunset Way Friday, July 23: J.D. Early 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: J.D. Early 7-10 p.m.

Chill Restaurant and Bar

357 Corey Ave. Friday, July 23: Janie Richards and Motel Funk! 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: Tripp N Becca 6:30 p.m.

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7 PM (VIRTUAL SCREENING) FREE FOR MFA MEMBERS; NOT-YET MEMBERS $5 FOLLOWED BY A DIRECTOR Q&A

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Friday, July 23: Stonegrey 7-11 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: Este Loves & Friends 1-5 p.m., More is More 7-11 p.m.

MADEIRA BEACH Daiquiri Shak Raw Bar & Grille

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Friday, July 23: Kevin Toon 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: Jeff Gurney 6-10 p.m.

Bamboo Beach Bar

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Friday, July 23: Tom Davis 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, July 24: Mark Mann 6-9 p.m.

Find more Beach Music at thegabber.com.

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

School Supplies, Boats & BBQ

Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

All Month School Supply Drive at Gulfport Elementary School is nearly back, signaling the kickoff of long supply lists. Head to Gulfport Brewery + Eatery for a school donation drive benefiting Gulfport Elementary that makes a new year a little easier for some students. Uniforms, lunch boxes, backpacks, reusable water bottles and standard school supplies are all needed and accepted through August 8. See Gulfport Brewery + Eatery for drop off times and uniform specifics.

Gulfport Brewery + Eatery, 3007 Beach Blvd. S. All Weekend Coliseum Art Show Kickoff Explore the workings of 60 visual artists at PAVA’s 32nd Annual Cool Art Show, all in St. Petersburg’s Coliseum. This year’s show will be a mix of both visual and functional art in the mediums of paint, wood, ceramics, photography, metal, glass, fiber, digital, mixed media and jewelry. Parking and admission are free, wine isn’t. The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N. Saturday, 10-5 a.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, July 24 Classic Gulfport Market, Saturday Edition If the classic Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market isn’t enough for you, the fourth Saturday of each month offers a shopping spree down Beach Boulevard with your favorite local vendors and produce, just on Saturday. Beach Boulevard, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Boating BBQ National Marina Day is upon us, and it’s time to celebrate in the marina that Gulfport knows best. With visits from guests such as the Gulfport Police Department Marine Force and Florida Fish and Wildlife alongside a fishing tournament and O’Maddy’s-sponsored BBQ, it’s safe fun by the water all day. The City of Gulfport asks boat-

ers to bring a land lover along for extra points. Gulfport Municipal Marina, 4630 29th Ave S. 11 a.m.3:30 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting with Gulfport Nutrition Gulfport Nutrition has the same fresh salads and fruitful smoothies, but is adding a ribbon-cutting to make things a little crisper. For those beloved businesses that missed the traditional “snip” during the long pandemic months, the Gulfport Merchant’s Chamber is offering a delayed redo. Check it out and get your veggies in on the way out. Gulfport Nutrition, 5012 Gulfport Blvd.

S. 2:30 p.m.

Gyros & Brews Opa! Sample everything Greek and delicious at this food and culture festival. There’s live music, a play area, Greek dishes and, of course, craft beers that the mother country would be proud of. St. Stefanos Greek Orthodox Church, 3600 76th St. N. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, July 25 Christmas in July It’s 100 degrees, but the peppermint snowflake ice cream is chilling Beach Boulevard South’s Let it Be ice cream shop all day long. Enjoy holiday flavors like eggnog, candy cane, cinnamon spices and more, with no reason for the season. Order the “Gabberwockey” flavor and know that proceeds will benefit your favorite local paper’s stockings. Let It Be Ice Cream, 3127 Beach Blvd. S. 12-8 p.m.

Queer Conservations When’s the last time you’ve had a conversation with like-minded people about all things queer? This is a monthly group dedicated to LGBTQPIA+ members sharing stories, thoughts and ideas with other community members, online. The group is guided by counselors and meant to be a safe space for discussion.

The Google Meet link will be posted in the discussion five minutes prior to the event and removed 20 minutes after the event has begun. fb.com/events/1170616696790523 6-7:30 p.m.

Monday, July 26 Shopping Summer Social Come browse, shop, and discover local St. Petersburg businesses in the first returning in-person summer social by LocalShops1. Enjoy tasty chilled treats by Clara Rose Ice Cream Truck and drink specials at this year’s venue, Grand Central Brewhouse. Early birds can expect gift bags at the door. Happy summer! Grand Central Brewhouse, 2340 Central Ave. 6-8 p.m.

Walk the Moon Enter the new cosmic cycle with ease at Beach Boulevard’s own crystal and healing shop. Sky followers will learn how to navigate the new lunar 13 moon and be surrounded by spiritual support. Space is limited and a $11 donation is suggested. Qi Crystal Energy, 3125 Beach Blvd S. 5-7 p.m.

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

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the gabs How is red tide affecting you?

Photos by Gabrielle Reeder

Richardo Simmons, St. Petersburg: “Ain’t nobody at the beach to enjoy.”

Valentina Webster, Russia: “I really miss swimming because I swim around here. I really love. Right now, red tide, too much dead fish. I don’t know how long this will happen because last year, it was a quick couple of weeks and now middle July it continues. I don’t know what I need to do. I’m 75 years old. I retired and it’s my best place. I really miss the water. I like to go jumping and swimming, but not anymore.”

Jamie Doerschuck, Gulfport: “Everyday that I’m walking by the waterfront and I look at the destruction of our environment. It’s honestly really sad. I love animals and it just hurts my heart to see this happening to them, so I hope that we can solve this soon.”

Becky Kurczy, St. Petersburg: “I can’t do Saturdays at the beach with my husband.”

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AFriendWhoBakes@gmail.com theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

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• • • • • •

JUL 30, FRI—CALYPSO BREEZE “LUAU” - Beer, Wine, Rum Punch!...$69 AUG 3, TUE—CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM with Whales!...$69 AUG 7, SAT—FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM & Fred’s Market Buffet!...$79 AUG 17, SAT—ELIXIR TEAROOM including Champagne & more, Sarasota!...$69 AUG 21, SAT—VICTORY CASINO CRUISE 100’s of games & slots, incl lunch.$79 AUG 26, THU—”ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN” Full Queen Concert at Mahafey…$69

Commentary on the Gabber’s Social Media Pages This Week Gulfport Chief Tests Positive for COVID Just cannot fathom why one in this position wouldn’t get vaccinated, especially given the public exposure. Whereas a recoverable case could have been guaranteed, this gentleman has chosen the roll of the dice. Best of luck. – Beth Berkobein Prayers! I work in healthcare and we recently had a vaccinated person test positive and have symptoms. It was kept confidential due to HIPAA. Vaccination is a personal choice and not 100%. Also, there are false positives. – Jeri Marshall Reed

Kriseman Pleads for DeSantis’ Support on Red Tide I’m sure his solid cordial relationship with the Governor will pay off for him and us all. – Matthew Yoder Not sure he cares about St. Pete. Maybe ask the Villages to request for us.

– CM Slicker

FREE TRAVEL CLUB MEETINGS! - Prizes & Excitement!!!

WEDNESDAY AUG 11th, 1:30PM at Big Apple Buf fet in Tyrone Gardens or on Youtube live!!

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 31

...For Your Thoughts

Solution on page 31

Welcome, Malachy!

SHAHEEN MAMAWALA

sudoku

Gulfport residents David Kanter and Shaheen Mamawala welcomed their son Malachy (mal-ah-key) Wayne Mamawala-Kanter on July 11. Coming in as a flyweight of 6lb 11oz and 20 inches. Malachy is a fourth generation Floridian who enjoys mitten tossing, beard grabbing and making faces inspired by the film “Zoolander.” Having heard the lore of Gulfport’s Pet Mayor, he hopes to one day have the opportunity to put in a bid for Tiny Mayor on a platform of equitable naps, milk and cuddling. Until then, he looks forward to meeting many of you at Gecko Fest!

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

27

CLASSIFIEDS

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

Cleaning / Housekeeping

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

PROFESSIONAL CARPET, GROUT & PRESSURE CLEANING

The pollen has finally subsided. Make your home beautiful again. We pressure clean fences, driveways, homes, sidewalks, pavers, stepping stones, pool cages, pool area, you name it we can make it look new again. 40 yrs exp. Excellent references, call 727-7430701 for a free estimate.

Computer Service JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair – 40.00 per visit/hr – 727-643-0697 – www.jmswebservices.com

Computer Problems?

No Problem!

In-Home Service FREE Phone Consultation Virus/Malware Removal Setup • Repair • Tutoring Courteous, Competent, Reliable Service

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 www.hwcg.com/St-PeteBeach AHCA #299995153

PROTECTION FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND

Whether you are needing to ensure your loved one's well-being, recovering from a planned or unplanned surgery, or just the comfort in knowing someone will be coming by, Omnipresent Caregiver's QuickCare Advantage provides everything you need for a flat weekly fee of $ for In-Home Service

TASK BASED CARE SERVICES Mon-Fri Wellness Checks Medication Assistance Meal Prep Light Housekeeping Grocery & Care Related Errand Services

Grooming (no razor

perfectworldllc.com

blade shaving or nail clipping) Bathing

Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

Handy Person HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-410-2201 CARPENTER DEPENDABLE! Have Tools Will Travel. Trustworthy, Doors, Decks/ Eaves/Rotted Wood, Etc. 30 Year Gabber Advertiser. Free Estimates, Lic. C-5754.

727-821-9973.

Dressing In-Continence Care OCF Family Portal

1-866-425-9297

omnipresentcaregivers.com PRIVATE HOMEHEALTH CAREGIVER CNA Licensed and Bonded. Level 2 Background Check Completed. BLS CPR/AED Certified.

Over 10 years of experience. 12hr night shifts.

Please call or text Kristen Simonds, CNA for questions. 727-773-6828

Lawn / Landscape

Health & Fitness

TREE PRUNING & DEBRIS CLEANUP Serving South St. Petersburg • Free Estimates • 727-308-8650

ROCKOUT WHILE YOU WORKOUT

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Rich Moseley, Irrigation Contractor. 25 Years Experience. Reasonable Rates. Well & Pumps.

727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains

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AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

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

Gulfport Computer Repair

QUICK-CARE ADVANTAGE

from PVC fence, siding - stucco - wood, pavers, railings, windows and most other surfaces around your house or business including signage. Cars too. Free estimate and demonstration. Surprisingly low prices. Call/text 727-360-7070 Email RustStainRemoval@icloud.com

Cardio Drumming classes at Gulfport Nutrition. Any fitness level. Cost $8; includes a shake. A fun way to get your body moving!

Come join a great community! Call Marlene 305-619-9734. 5022 Gulfport Blvd S. Six classes a week.

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

Health & Fitness

Looking for Shaklee?

YOUR LOCAL WELLNESS LADY WITH 29 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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.

727-342-0411 WELLNESSPLANS.NET

727-687-7999

Heat / Air Conditioning

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

CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED EC-13008313

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

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

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! Moving / Hauling CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727831-0507.

Painting

Home & Condo Maintenance

D.C. STRONG

Home & condo maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work, A-Z • Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530 • Licensed & Insured Miscellaneous Service THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out, recycling and organizing, and we do mulching and weeding! Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867.

Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

2006 SATURN ION 3. One owner, Florida car, 86k miles, Clean car fax , no accidents , great transportation, very nice car, very cold AC. $4850.00 obo. 727-748-9117 For Sale

Carla Clayton Certified Health Coach

Automotive

WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS. PINNIX PAINTING INC. Interior , Exterior. In Business Locally Since 1980. Free Estimates. Commercial, Residential. References Upon Request.

Lic. #C4334. 727-641-1888 Plumbing

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

COOPER DISCOVERER 265/70R16 TIRES

Used but excellent condition w/ 23,207 miles. $350 OBO for set. Replaced with different tires for our Xterra. No rot, great condition. Call/text 727-360-7070.

SALON PROFESSIONAL Portable Hair Dryers and Roller Caddies. New and used. Call 727-798-9006.

MOBILITY SCOOTER & WHEELCHAIR 6 mth old Ventura Deluxe Mobility scooter - $350. and Large Drive Wheelchair, never used $350. Both for $600. Call 727-3217369 General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341.

THE DHARMA PRANA EARTH NOW MISSION Needs Students to Support the PHR Paradigm shift. The term of utmost importance is Positive Health Radiation.

PHR causes physical Health and leads towards Enlightenment of the Mind. The Church of Dharma Prana Bio Nuclear Physics teaches YR PHR Practical Quantum Mechanics Field Testing to achieve that goal, and stop Breast Cancer at stage one. This is an Open Heaven’s Gate Paradigm Shift. To learn more, call: 727906-2465 Yard / Garage Sale TRASH TO TREASURES SALE St. Pete Garden Club Indoor Yard Sale, Friday & Saturday, July 23-24 9am-2pm 500 Park St. S.

TWELVE APARTMENT SALE

Lots of great Stuff. Everything must go!!!

Incuding: Lawn mower, chain saw, power tools, glassware, clothes, shoes, purses, mics.Items and more. 5301 27th Avenue South Gulfport, FL. Corner of 27th Avenue and 53rd streets. Dates July 23rd-25th, 2021. 8:00am-4:00pm

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

Locally owned and operated.

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

29

Lost & Found

pets Meet the Boys

PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER

ROMEO IS MISSING Please call Andea with any information. 678-523-6465

SAVE OUR STRAYS

Buddy Up!

Help Wanted

Part time, occasional. Work at your home.

Call Carol 727-383-2849 (m) 727-384-8050 (h)

Real Estate for Rent AFFORDABLE 55+ APARTMENT COMMUNITY Philip Benjamin Tower is accepting applications. Must be 55+ to qualify. Rent includes all utilities. Project Based Voucher when available for those 62+ . Call 737-3475191, Mon -Fri, between 8am and 3:30 pm.

Income restrictions apply. An Equal Housing Opportunity.

Real Estate Wanted

NEED A GREAT REALTOR?

How can we describe Buddy? Happy, cute, cuddly, cute, kissable, cute, mature, cute, loyal, cute... did we mention cute? Buddy is a 6-year-old Chihuahua mix with an adorable nubby tail. He can’t wait to share your couch with you, but would prefer a home with no small children.

Sonny is a sweet, friendly 2-monthold tabby – one of three siblings ready for adoption. Sonny, Sammie and Simba have fun playing in their St. Petersburg foster home. They are neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and ready for love.

1830 61st Ave. N.; 727-521-6191; petpalanimalshelter.com

Call SOS at 727-545-1116 for more, or visit saveourstraysinc.com.

What Kind of Name Is That?

Drivers Wanted

PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER

Whether buying or selling a home, please call me for all of your Real Estate needs. I will work hard to earn your trust and confidence.

Greg Graham, Realtor, Charles Rutenberg Realty 727-698-9017. https://gregorygraham.gocrr.com Real Estate For Sale

8743 95 AVE N - 3/2 WITH 1 YR OLD APPLIANCES/HVAC $285,000 VACANT 1.3 ACRE LOT NEAR WESLEY CHAPEL/ZEPHYRHILLS $65,000

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com

Nelda Hamm

3037 Beach Blvd. S.

30

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

LOCAL ARTIST NEEDS HELP FROM SEAMSTRESS/TAILOR

Carl is a 3-month-old boy with a grown-up name. He’s wise beyond his years, and ready to be the king of your castle. Meet Carl at Pet Supermarket, 6892 Gulfport Blvd. S.

Miss Maggie is a cuddle bug and a car enthusiast! She is a social butterfly and a “sit master.” She can lie down, sit pretty, and roll over – well, half roll, but she is getting there.

Maggie’s adoption fee is covered by our No Dog Left Behind fund.

727-345-4581; petpalanimalshelter. com

2911 47th Ave. N.; 727-522-6566; friendsofstrays.org.

theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

solution

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

Town Shores - Groton UNDER CONTRACT !!!

5940 30th Ave S #102

Marie Drew 727-657-1259

mdrew@remax.net 6641 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | LocalExpertHomes.com theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021

31

Open to the Public! Float on by!

B O A T & J E T S K I S L I P S A VA I L A B L E *BRING THIS AD IN FOR 10% OFF YOUR BILL

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION TODAY ON

OR BY CALLING 727-367-4511

O P E N W E D N E S D AY - S U N D AY A T 1 1 A M • T H E C L U B T I . C O M 400 TREASURE ISLAND C AUSEWAY

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theGabber.com | July 22, 2021 - July 28, 2021