The Gabber: August 19, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2722

August 19 - August 25, 2021

School’s In, Masks Optional After the challenge that was 2020, Pinellas County Schools were back in session on Wednesday, August 11.

While the pandemic isn’t over, the mask mandate is, and students at schools across the county could be seen in various stages of mask-wearing – some firmly worn, some askew and many tucked away in the bottom of backpacks or nonexistent.

Per the school board’s decision, PCS is not enforcing a mask mandate, instead leaving the decision up to students – most of whom are unvaccinated – and parents for the 2021-22 school year amidst a massive surge in COVID-19 cases sparked by the Delta variant. Masks are also optional for PCS teachers, staff and visitors.

Unlike neighboring school district, Hillsborough County, students need no “opt out” forms to leave a mask at home, a decision that prompted a rally of parents and healthcare professionals outside Pinellas County School’s district office two days before school started.

As was the case in 2020, parents and students do have multiple “learn-

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Marvion Thomas smiles after the first day of school for Pinellas County on Wednesday, August 11.

ing options” this year – in-person attendance, and the online options of MyPCS Online and Pinellas Virtual

Love the Gabber? There’s always more online!

Taste of the Beaches returns, give your feedback on lawn watering, and much more Gabber goodness at thegabber.com.

School, which has been available for several years, according to PCS. School continued on page 11

Bogie, Bradley and Busing (Part 8) P.4

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voices Letters About Letters

come and publish letters from the community whether or not you share their opinion. – Liz Snow

Dear Editor: I wanted to respond to a letter published in the last issue that complained about you publishing the letter regarding the police chief for not being vaccinated. The initial letter about the police chief was concise and to the point. It shared the writer’s opinion. The second letter stating the Gabber shouldn’t have published the first letter also expressed an opinion. If that’s all it did, that would have been fine but to stoop to name calling by referring to the other writer as a “Karen” and a dolt, that kind of personal attack is unacceptable. The Gabber proved itself neutral by publishing both letters, [but] I would have edited out the name calling. What I appreciate about the Gabber is that you wel-

Change How Death Notifications Are Made Dear Editor: I am reflecting on the way I found out that my brother died. Three armed, armored, stern men came to my door and used that loud banging (there is a doorbell).

I don’t remember any words after “your brother was found dead.” I do remember fixing my eyes in the officer’s gun. I thought, “There is a man with a gun in my house. I don’t allow guns in my house. I don’t like anything about guns.” The officer who spoke to me was professional and sincere. I have done death notifications with doctors when I was

a chaplain. I have held the hands of dying people and dead ones. I have been there to comfort the surviving family and friends. I have been at gravesides when grief-stricken mothers have thrown themselves into graves. I have watched people throw things and break them in rage after a loved one dies. I have caught too many people as they collapsed at hearing terribly sad news. I have seen it all as a social worker, a chaplain, a pastor. And never once did I feel the need to have a gun or armor or two identically armed back-up cops.

It’s time to change how death notifications are made. I needed a helping professional that day, but the system sent the wrong kind. – Rev. Valerie Mapstone Ackerman, MSW, Mdiv, Gulfport

The Gabber welcomes letters and commentary. All letters must be signed and may be lightly edited. We will not print letters that incite violence, include hate speech or that are intentionally misleading. Letters sent to the Gabber for print will also appear online and on the Gabber’s social media. 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

By James A. Schnur

By the mid-1970s, tensions escalated with the federal busing mandate. The majority of students in some zones refused to attend their assigned schools. A white student attacked an attorney with the American flag as the lawyer left city hall, while parents angrily rallied, marched and protested. Authorities canceled football games out of caution. What happened?

Welcome to Boston. These incidents happened in Massachusetts, not Florida.

While tensions boiled over in other parts of the country, Florida counties made substantial progress during the 1970s, moving away from the segregated system of the past and toward unitary status. Gus Sakkis replaced Nicholas Mangin as county school superintendent in June 1972. Sakkis provided stability to a district that had six superintendents in seven years.

He held the office for nine years.

Although the situation improved in most Pinellas schools, lingering

BOCA CIEGA HIGH TREASURE CHEST

Part 8: Moving Forward, One Bus Stop at a Time

hostilities sometimes erupted at Boca Ciega High. A stabbing and cafeteria fight at the beginning of February 1973 morphed into a race riot a few days later that involved more than 400 students, some carrying rocks, sticks and chains.

Less than 500 of Bogie’s 2,200 students remained on campus by

the end of that violent day.

Racial unrest resumed in mid-April 1973. On Friday, April 13, 150 Black students who came to campus refused to go to class. Some fights occurred, students sought refuge in classrooms, administrators tried to diffuse the situation and police swarmed the campus soon after.

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PINELLAS MEMORY

However, over the next few years, tensions mellowed as Bogie’s enrollment soared. By the time John C. Demps became Boca Ciega’s principal in mid-1976, nearly 2,800 students attended the school. A Black educator who led Bogie during a difficult time, Demps maintained an “open-door policy.” As Baby Boomers cycled through high school, enrollment dropped from 2,828 in 1974 to 1,853 in 1979.

“Seminole Schools” and the Limits of Busing Busing remained a necessity because residential communities were still strongly segregated by race. When the 1971 federal court order went into effect, the plaintiffs and county knew that it made little sense to bus students from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs to maintain racial balance. For purposes of busing for desegregation, a line generally following Ulmerton

Road separated busing zones for north and south county.

This line dipped across Lake Seminole before heading west across the Gulf Beaches. White students living south of the line might find themselves re-zoned for a two-year visit to a school in southern St. Petersburg; those in the north did not cross the line for the purpose of maintaining racial balance. This explains why students in North Redington Beach Bogie continued on page 6

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Bogie continued from page 5

attended Lakeview Elementary School near Lake Maggiore from 1973 to 1975 instead of Madeira Beach Elementary.

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, classified ads appeared in some newspapers touting “Seminole Schools.” They announced homes for sale or rent by praising the high quality of “Seminole Schools.” This subtle message had racial overtones. While many excellent schools did exist in that part of the county, the couched meaning was that a move to the property protected children from “forced busing.”

Did it work? By 1980, Boca Ciega, Gibbs and Lakewood high schools approached – and sometimes exceeded – the court-imposed tipping factor of 30%. By comparison, fewer than 4% of the students attending overcrowded double sessions at Seminole High were Black.

When Osceola High School opened in the fall of 1981, the new campus sat on the other side of the line,

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Unlike white students who might meaning Black students from Boboard a bus for two years for a gie and Lakewood rode buses to trip into St. Petersburg then return Osceola. to their “home” school with their Busing remained unpopular friends, these Black students had among parents. During the oil eman entirely different experience. bargo and fuel shortages of the One of them might walk to Lakev1970s, parents growled that busing iew Elementary, should end – unless those buses “A stabbing and cafe- then take buses transported their teria fight at the begin- to Tyrone Middle children to a near- ning of February 1973 and Dixie Hollins High. The friend to by school. Despite morphed into a race riot the east hopped hiccups, a new wave of “white a few days later that in- on buses to 74th flight” never oc- volved more than 400 Street Elementary, Azalea Middle curred. Black stu- students.” and Pinellas Park dents sometimes High. The pal on the north side of benefited, but they also paid a high 22nd Avenue went to Shore Acres price, one that frequently included Elementary, Meadowlawn Middle a different type of academic “segand Northeast High. Finally, the regation” from their friends across last friend caught buses to Gulfthe street. port Elementary, Disston Middle Stand at any major intersection and Boca Ciega High. in St. Petersburg’s Black communiFour friends who could probaty in the late 1970s, such as where bly wave to one another from their 16th Street South meets 22nd Avhomes, yet never would they cross enue. Imagine four friends, all the paths in the same school hallway, same age, each of them living in a compare notes about their favorite different quadrant from that point.

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teachers, play on the same junior varsity team or attend the same graduation ceremony.

Choice Schools and GOALS Setting At both the federal and state levels, a commitment to achieving racial integration declined during the Reagan administration. Locally, the growing racial imbalance north and south of the mid-county busing line made it increasingly difficult for some St. Petersburg schools to stay below the court-mandated 30% tipping factor.

Rather than petition the courts to abandon their commitment to the busing plan, the district worked with the NAACP to modify the court order in June 1982.

A floating quota allowed some south county schools to exceed the 30% threshold. During this time, administrators sought to attract white students from north Pinellas by creating the first sub-

stantial high school magnet proers focused on cohorts that had grams. suffered from failing grades, low Gibbs High School became grade point averages, and discihome of the Artistically Talented pline or attendance issues.

Program, with Next week, we end an innovative “Students sought ref- our journey on this curriculum that uge in classrooms, ad- bus ride through hisincluded dance, ministrators tried to tory. Join us as we music and thewatch a new Boca diffuse the situation Ciega campus take ater. St. Petersburg High School and police swarmed the shape during the received per- campus soon after.” new millennium and mission to host assess how Pinellas the Program for the Academischools continue to strive for incally Talented that later became clusion and diversity. the county’s first International Baccalaureate program. By 1984, James A. Schnur graduated drowsy students in the Tarpon from Boca Ciega High as a memSprings and East Lake areas ber of the inaugural class that started catching buses at 5 a.m. experienced Pinellas school defor long trips to St. Petersburg. segregation from first through Boca Ciega and Dixie Hollins retwelfth grades. To comply with ceived a different type of magnet court-ordered busing, he rode program. In January 1986, they the bus for four of those years. launched the GOALS (Graduation He’s written five books about PiOptions: Alternatives to Leaving nellas communities and has also School) pilot program in partnerlectured and published about ship with the district’s Alternative Florida and Florida education Education office. GOALS teachhistory.

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Business Beat

New Tattoo Studio Opens and Handmade Jewels Abound The gothic glow of Gulfport Boulevard’s only private tattoo studio raises more questions than answers for those passing the shop at 5125 22nd Ave. S. The sole signage for Nocturnal Studio and Gallery a neon purple and glows in the shape of “Nocturnal.” The LED doesn’t offer much information – and according to artist and owner Ande Spade, it’s not supposed to.

“We don’t have people coming in and out of the door; it’s strictly a private space, that’s why we don’t have an ‘open’ sign in the window,” Spade said. “Most of my clients don’t like the regular environment of shops. Quite frankly, it can be annoying.”

Spade, a Philadelphia-native, has been a tattoo artist for 25 years, most recently at Fredo Ink & Co. on 4th St. S. before opening his space in April of this year.

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Tattoo artist Ande Spade opened Nocturnal Gallery and Studio in April of this year.

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ABBY BAKER

He’s lived and tattooed in Florida for the better part of 13 years.

“I worked in street shops for years, and this is the way to go,” Spade said.

With a vintage church pew, skeletons, and tarot cards propped amongst the purple-and-black lounge, it’s clear Spade is gearing up for more than just tattoo sessions.

Eventually, the space will be a pop-up gallery for local artists to exhibit for events. In the meantime, Spade’s shop is a functioning photography gallery, paint studio and space for the dark arts.

“Because the doors are never open, they are always open,” Spade, who is a self-proclaimed insomniac, said. “I’ll work with people; we’re pretty unorthodox, as you can see.”

Interested in the local ink? Visit fb.com/nocturnalgulfport.

A Place for Jewelry With no roof and no walls, Cosmic Eye Creations is an open-air jewelry booth next to Red Hot Tiki that sells hand-crafted jewelry and crystals from its tiny spot at 2904 Beach Blvd. S. Since April, owner and artist Jessica Steele has been selling metaphysical creations and gifts from Thursday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“People seem to love it,” Steele said. “It’s a good feeling.”

Before she came to Beach Boulevard, Steele was selling her work while she drove for Uber.

“I couldn’t open my own shop because of COVID-19 complications and I didn’t want to sit around feel-

Jessica Steele sells her handmade jewelry and crystals – Cosmic Eye Creations – from a table on Beach Boulevard South.

ing helpless,” Steele said. “I eventually want my own store, but I’m in a better place than I was.”

More at fb.com/cosmiceyecreations.

Hold the Fries Locals watched Gulfport’s McDonald’s at ​​ 5111 Gulfport Blvd. undergo a five-month renovation from the ground up, completed in July.

A grand opening was scheduled for Sunday, August 8, however the potentially crowd-heavy event

was canceled amid rising COVID-19 concerns.

“Due to current COVID infectious rates in Tampa, we have decided to cancel our Gulfport Grand Reopening,” shift manager Scott Etter wrote on Facebook.

The chain is open for business, however.

“While we are sad that we won’t be able to share one of our favorite events with the community,” Etter wrote, “We know we’ve taken the proper safety measures to ensure the health and well-being of our people and community.”

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School continued from cover

“Pinellas County Schools will follow the wellness protocols outlined in the Florida Department of Health Emergency Rule 64DER2112, issued August 6, 2021, by Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees,” reads the PCS website. “This applies to all students, staff and visitors.”

PCS “strongly” recommends masks, handwashing and “stay at home when sick” guidelines.

Children under 12 cannot currently get the vaccine, and Pinellas COVID cases are at an all-time high, according to the New York Times COVID-19 Tracker.

During the first week of school, PCS reported an average of 917 coronavirus cases.

“I’d say half and half wear their masks, but it’s only the second day back,” Boca Ciega High School teacher Matt Gudorf told the Gabber on Thursday, August 12. “With the numbers the way they are, I’m a little worried about our team getting COVID.” Gudorf, who coaches football at BCHS, remembers last year’s shaky season.

“A couple games were canceled due to other teams players being out with COVID,” Gudorf said. “I’m interested to see how this year pans out.”

ABBY BAKER

Rising Numbers

The Pinellas County School Board made masks optional for students, teachers, staff and visitors.

“I’m happy because they can breathe again,” Ferro said on the first day. “It’s hard to teach through

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Inside Schools The first day of school on August 11 brought plenty of strong opinions about the mask mandate – or lack thereof.

Antwan Glasper, parent to Gulfport Montessori Elementary School student Joaquin, makes sure his son is equipped with protective measures for school.

“My son is wearing a mask, but you don’t know just how many people are out here walking around unvaccinated,” Glasper said at the school’s pickup area. “He has a bookbag full of masks.”

Fourth grade teacher and parent at the same school, Shantel Ferro, disagrees.

a mask.”

Find more information at pcsb. org/covid19.

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A Full House?

Gecko Pub Crawl Draws Small but Enthusiastic Crowd

By Abby Baker. Photos by Larry Busby

Chuck Roche, John Allen, Pam Scher, and Sandi Gundelfinger at Eddies, formerly Salty’s.

Despite the threat of Tropical Depression Fred and the rise of COVID-19 in Pinellas, Gulfport’s Gecko Pub Crawl was a subdued success on Saturday, August 14.

Normally selling out at 250 tickets, this year’s ticket numbers topped out at just under 200, said Gulfport Merchant Chamber President Barbara Banno.

“We sold a lot of tickets the day of, so it turned out to be more successful than we previously expected,” Banno said following the event. “We’re happy with the outcome.”

Poker run winners Catherine and Ryan Coberly.

Per usual, the crawl spread out over participating pubs and restaurants in Gulfport’s Waterfront District, inviting ticket-holders to bar hop in exchange for six stamped poker cards.

“It went great,” said John Haugen, GMC board coordinator for the event. “The weather was actually comfortable considering Fred.”

Haugen says that the best hand of the night was a full house.

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The band Jahfari plays at Caddy’s.

Gecko Queen Jody Robinson, Kelli La and Bob Ryan at Eddies, formerly Salty’s.

Nina McIntosh and Diane Phelps strike a pose at the Village Courtyard.

Shariel Sharp, Cynthia Stewart and Tina Walker at Eddies, formerly Salty’s.

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A New Pirate Captain

Jennifer Gil takes the Helm at Boca Ciega High School After 11 years with Michael Vigue at the helm, Jennifer Gil has taken command as Boca Ciega High School’s new principal beginning with the 2021-22 school year.

For both of these career educators, it will be a step up. Vigue moves on to be Pinellas County’s Area 4 Superintendent, serving to support the leadership, instruction, operations of 25 schools in central to southeast Pinellas County. He’ll go from overseeing Bogie’s dayto-day, to supporting 15 elementary schools, two special education centers, four middle schools and four high schools.

“Safe to assume I thoroughly enjoyed my time guiding the pirate ship,” Vigue wrote when asked to list some of his fondest memories of his time at Boca Ciega. “Way too many to mention succinctly, but here are just a few: incredibly dedicated staff, positively involved parents, contributing community/ alumni groups, students who care for each other/their school community/and their future goals, all 11 graduation classes are special and unique, increase of academic expectations/rigorous coursework enrollment, increase of graduation rate, AVID National Demonstration School status earned in 2017, and daily positive/supportive interactions with students.”

Gil arrives at Boca Ciega after two years as Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at

BOCA CIEGA HIGH SCHOOL

By Jeff Donnelly

Hollins High School. Before Hollins, she worked a year as Assistant Principal of Athletics and as Assistant Principal of Facilities for six years at Clearwater High School.

“What most excites me about coming aboard the pirate ship is becoming part of a team that is cohesive, caring and dedicated,” Gil said. “Under the leadership of my predecessor, Mr. Michael Vigue, Boca Ciega High School has accomplished so much. I look forward to building upon the strong foundation that was established at our school, and helping Boca Ciega High School continue to evolve into a flagship school in the district.”

Gil also noted Bogie’s status as

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an AVID National Demonstration Site, an in-school academic support program for grades seven through 12 to prepare students for college. Its instructional strategies are infused school-wide into all content areas, and Gil believes this has contributed to student learning gains and success in rigorous courses such as Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment.

“Recently, we implemented the Pre-AP program,” Gil adds, “and I’m looking forward to seeing how the framework and coursework lead to increased opportunities for all students.”

Gil is quick to mention that within her first two weeks being on campus, meeting faculty and staff, she could see its people were the school’s primary strength. And while she dreams big about the future of Bogie under her stewardship, she notes all the positives the school already has going for it.

“I envision Boca Ciega High School to be known as a school where 100% of students [who] graduate [are] college- and career-ready,” she said, “[a school] with robust and highly successful academic and non-academic programming. I would like it to be a school where students will look back and call Boca Ciega High School ‘home’ because of the positive culture and climate of our beautiful campus.”

Both Gil and Vigue refer to Bogie as THE Boca Ciega High School. But why? Principal Gil broke it down for us.

“The ‘The’ was added in 2011 by then principal Mr. Vigue and assistant principal Mr. Solomon Lowery. At the time, the School Within a School Fundamental program was added and Mr. Vigue was working hard to implement initiatives to improve student achievement and the image of the school,” she said.

“It was a rebranding of sorts. We are THE Boca Ciega High School, because we are THE best high school.”

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Two Injured by Lightning Strike on St. Pete Beach On Thursday, August 12, St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue was dispatched to the scene of a lightning strike at the Tradewinds Island Grand Resort at 5500 Gulf Blvd. at 4:53 p.m.

Units from St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue 23, Special Rescue 23, and District 23 responded to help a female victim, 16, who was struck by lightning behind the resort, according to the release. Prior to first responders’ arrival on the scene, Tradewinds staff moved the victim indoors and provided CPR along with Pinellas County Sheriff Office (PCSO) deputies. St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue units took over care, providing Advanced Life Support medical services, according to the city.

A man, 60, who was in close proximity to the strike also needed medical care, though his injuries were determined to be non-life threatening.

St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue crews transported both victims to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

Fire Marshal Kelly Intzes reminded residents to use caution during a storm.

“When you hear thunder, seek cover as quickly as possible in either a substantial building or hard-topped metal vehicle and remain there for at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder,” he stated in the release.

PIXABAY

By Gabber Staff

St. Pete Beach Fire Chief Jim Kilpatrick added that people should also avoid isolated tall trees, towers or utility poles as lightning tends to strike taller objects.

“Metal and water are strong conductors of electricity and electrical current can travel long distances through them,” read the release.

Mayor Al Johnson added, “We have many visitors to our area and residents who aren’t aware of the

dangers of our storms. The storm’s natural beauty can be deceiving.

When it comes to thunder and lightning, no storm is ‘just a small one.’

Always err on the side of caution.

Our thoughts are with the victims of the lightning strike and their families. We are thankful for the quick actions of the Tradewinds staff, our Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the crew at the St. Pete Beach Fire Rescue.”

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Need a COVID Test?

Pinellas Opens a New Testing Site in St. Pete Pinellas County continues to break daily COVID-19 records with the latest Florida Department of Health numbers showing more than a 19% positivity rate. As demand escalates, county officials have opened a free, no-appointment testing site on 34th Street South in St. Petersburg.

The site at the Center for Health Equity, 2333 34th St. S., will stay open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until further notice, say officials.

“In its first four days, the site operated by CDR Maguire provided 2,848 tests to the public. Of those, 2,364 were rapid antigen tests and 484 were PCR tests,” the county stated in a release on Friday, August 13.

Testing is free at this site, but visitors may be asked for health insurance information. Those without health insurance will not be turned away.

For more information about this site, call 1-800-232-0233.

There are also other COVID testing sites in the area, including at some CVS, Walgreens and urgent care clinics.

The Department of Health-Pinellas strongly encourages anyone who has not gotten a COVID-19 vaccine to get protected as soon as possible.

“Vaccination remains the most effective defense from COVID-19,” ac-

PIXABAY

By Gabber Staff

cording to the county, and “are provided at no cost in many places in Pinellas without an appointment or a wait.”

Find other testing sites near you at covid19.pinellascounty.org/testing; find a vaccine location at vaccines. gov.

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arts Meet Tron Montgomery

Actor and Sanitation Worker Premiers His Play at the Hickman Tron Montgomery is the writer and star of the recent production “Hooked on a Bad Spirit” at the Catherine Hickman Theater. Most mornings, you can also find Montgomery driving a City of Gulfport sanitation truck.

“Being an actor isn’t the richest profession... my dream has always been a needle in a haystack,” said Montgomery. “So yes, I have a day job.”

The Gulfport resident often finds himself reading scripts on his route.

“Being an actor, I find myself acting like a garbage man. I can drive the hell out of the truck, but there’s so much more to life than being a robot and working.”

TRON MONTGOMERY

By Abby Baker

Hooked on Theater “Hooked” is a combination of Montgomery’s experience in Gulfport and a three-part miniseries of plays he’s been tinkering with for over a decade. The show follows seven characters, all named after and based on people he knew in childhood.

An empty spot in the Catherine Hickman Theater schedule gave

Actor, playwright and City of Gulfport sanitation worker Tron Montgomery debuted his play, “Hooked on a Bad Spirit“ at the Catherine Hickman Theater. “I want to put my stamp on this thriving little town,” he said.

Montgomery’s original work a chance to shine. The original onenight date of Saturday, July 31 sold out almost immediately, prompting an encore show on Friday, July 30.

“It’s not a musical, so every scene has to be seat-gripping, and you can only sing a person to death so many times,” Montgomery said. “There’s a 15-minute intermission, but aside from that I want people to hold their pee.”

A third “encore, encore” showing of “Hooked” was set for Saturday, August 21, but was canceled this week after the female lead tested positive for COVID-19.

The cast hopes to perform the final promised production in October.

18

theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

“Next time, I’ll definitely have understudies,” Montgomery said. “Lesson learned.”

A Character Originally from Pompano Beach, Montgomery moved to the Tampa Bay area in 2007 to work as an actor in Busch Gardens’ daily jungle-themed show, KaTonga, when he was in his 20s.

The show, and Montgomery’s sock puppet-bearing character “Ayo,” exist now only in memories and a 39-minute recording after the theme park swapped it out for a new crowd draw.

“Since elementary school, I was always a character,” Montgomery said. “I was glad to be a part of it (KaTonga) but I wasn’t done, wasn’t ready to give up yet.”

For the last decade he’s moved on from Busch Gardens to several productions such Universal Studios production of “Beetlejuice,” “Ordinary Days” at the Stageworks Theater, “The Wiz” for the New Tampa Players and a list of other venues and plays.

Last year, Montgomery flew to New York City and tried out for a Broadway production of the Temptations musical, “Ain’t Too Proud.”

He got the callback for a second audition after a prolonged waiting period due to COVID-19, but was already working full time for the City of Gulfport and working on his screenplay.

“There was no stability with it. I thought, ‘Why not bring Broadway here?’” Montgomery said. “I want to put my stamp on this thriving little town.”

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No Baloney

SAGES Plays with Purpose Help Seniors Fight Scammers “Fraudsters use the power of theater – pretending to be someone they are not – to scam seniors. SAGES fights fire with fire,” says Christine Hamacher, Executive Director of Senior Actors Guild and Education Services.

Hamacher and her team at SAGES invite seniors from across Tampa Bay to experience their newest production, “Phoney Baloney,” an original play that spotlights reality on both ends of a scam phone call. Thanks to grants from the RRF Foundation for Aging and the Pinellas Community Foundation Senior Citizens Services, DVDs of a live performance are free for use at 55+ communities in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties to help keep seniors from falling victim to scams.

“The topic of scams came to my attention through my work with seniors,” Hamacher says, “and I realized this was another taboo subject we needed to get people talking about more to protect them.”

Once SAGES’ latest topic came into focus, company playwright Linda Goldman got to work conducting interviews and research, discovering that scams perpetrated over the telephone were the

CHRISTINE HAMACHER

By Jeff Donnelly

Tony Barbetta and Candice Felice in “Phoney Baloney,” an original play by nonprofit SAGES Theater spotlights reality on both ends of a scam call.

most prevalent and target seniors more rapidly than ever.

Goldman, Hamacher and SAGES Board Member Kelly McGuire worked to shape the data, personal stories and tips on prevention into “Phoney Baloney.”

Crafting a play that educates as much as it entertains is not a onceoff gimmick for SAGES. “Baloney” is

just the latest in a string of “Plays with Purpose” going back to 2014.

“This is all Linda Goldman’s fault,” Hamacher said of the playwright.

“Truly! She and her friends love theater, so she would plan outings for senior groups from her temple to see community theater shows around the area. But they were disappointed to see seniors on stage

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theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

CHRISTINE HAMACHER

in only zany character roles and not as the lead actors sharing their own complex stories of overcoming challenges.”

Goldman took matters into her own hands, writing her first play, “Grandma Goes Off Her Rocker.”

Hamacher took note, and saw an opportunity to fold her years of personal advocacy on the subject of fall prevention for seniors into a project with Goldman. SAGES first show, “Denying Gravity,” allowed seniors audiences to see themselves represented more dynamically on stage, while also supporting local Fire Rescue to reduce calls to 911 for falls by older adults.

“All of the stories told in our plays reflect truth from real life events,” says Hamacher.

SAGES’ newest play is no different.

“Telephone scams have touched almost everyone these days, whether they realize it or not. Robocalls are a daily occurrence and many are the results of a large fraud network of scammers calling all over the country and stealing money from all ages.

Several of the scams we discuss have been experienced by people we know, if not our own members of SAGES.” Due to the pandemic, Hamacher

Actors Judy Landis and Max Roberts in “Phoney Baloney,” an original play by nonprofit SAGES Theater spotlights reality on both ends of a scam call.

and company couldn’t do live shows as planned last year so they had “Phoney Baloney” professionally recorded for release as part of their “Do-It-Yourself STOP Scams Kits.”

Fully funded through grants from the RRF Foundation and Pinellas Community Foundation Senior Citizen Services, free kits are now available to senior living communities all over Tampa Bay. The group invites in-

dependent living/retirement homes, assisted living facilities, senior apartments, and both 55+ condos and mobile home parks to request a kit that includes a DVD of “Phoney Baloney,” playbills, guidelines for viewing and audience feedback forms to engage the audience.

Email playswithpurpose@sagestheater.org, call 727-536-7076 or visit sagestheater.org.

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GULFPORT Neptune Grill

STAY, DINE at Gulfport’s Peninsula Inn

Gulfport’s Historic Peninsula Inn is a cozy retreat ready for travelers who are ready to dip their toes back into travel. The quiet beach on the north shore of Boca Ciega Bay is a five-minute walk from the front door.

There is a market on Tuesdays year-round and art everywhere.

The sun is shining, the inn’s owners are ready to welcome you with their warm Southern hospitality, and their in-house restaurant, Isabelle’s, features delicious Southern cuisine, including some of your old favorites in their new menu.

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Friday, August 20: TL Jentgens 8:30 p.m.- 1 a.m.

Saturday, August 21: Swipe Right 8:30- 1 a.m.

The Toasted Monkey

678 75th Ave. Friday, August 20: Hiram’s Magic (Fencewalk) 6 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Motel Funk 1 p.m., Phoenix 6-10 p.m.

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THEY CONTINUE TO ADHERE TO THE HIGHEST SAFETY PROTOCOLS: · All AHLA Stay Safe guidelines · No one enters your room unless you request housekeeping · They frequently sanitize all high-contact surfaces · Staff is required to wear masks

TREASURE ISLAND

357 Corey Ave. Friday, August 20: Brothers Gabriel 6 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Liz Adams 6 p.m.

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10601 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, August 20: Big Brother Band 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Kevin Toon 5 p.m.

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Friday, August 20: Kingpin 7-11 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Gypsy Elise & Her Royal Blues 7-11 p.m.

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Friday, August 20: Well Strung 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Josh Fielding Duo 6-9 p.m.

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Friday, August 20: Ryan Marchand 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, August 21: Mark Mann 6-7 p.m.

Use promocode “Gabber” when booking online to get the free Tuesday night, or you can call directly and ask for it when booking.

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5501 Shore Blvd. S. Friday, August 20: Josh Magwood Duo 6-9 p.m.

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theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Weird Florida, IndieFaire & Trivia Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

All Month Long Donations for Bogie Students Help a Boca Ciega High School teacher create a hygiene closet for students in need this year. The eventual “Need One, Take One” stock will benefit BCHS children for free. Tampons, deodorant, soap, combs and any other toiletries are welcome. Drop off your donations at Pia’s Trattoria during restaurant operating hours.

Pia’s Trattoria, 3054 Beach Blvd. S. Friday, August 20 Weird Florida Art Show Proud of your Florida roots? Intrigued by urban legends? Check out Floridian-themed art from over 50 creators in the area at Coastal’s Weird Florida Art Show. A fire-wielding aerialist will fly over the work throughout the swampy summer night. See the entire warehouse for just $5 per ticket. Coastal Creative, 2201 1st Ave. S. 6-9:30 p.m. $5

IndieFaire Finds 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 full of summer offerings. Shop the stalls, visit local eateries and drinkeries this Saturday. Beach Boulevard South. 5-9 p.m.

Yoga Under the Moon Described as not a class, but a “journey,” Moon Landing Yoga brings yogis to the sand to welcome a new moon. This is a chance for beginners and seasoned stretchers alike to take their practice outdoors. Bring a mat, a water bottle and a small donation.

Gulfport Beach, Shore Boulevard between 54th and 58th St. S. 8-9:16 p.m.

Sunday, August 22 Local Jams, Local Paint Rock out

Outdoor Flicks Hunker down in a beach chair for a free August showing of the Gulfport Historical Society’s Florida Cinema Series. Next up, “Summer Rental.” This 1980s comedy features a strung out Jack Chester’s action-packed family vacation, ending with the iconic boat race. The film immortalized St. Pete with scenes at the old St. Petersburg Pier and the previous Sunshine Skyway. Gulfport Historical Society, 5301 28th Ave. S. 7:30-10 p.m.

Saturday, August 21 St. Pete Flea Browse a large indoor flea market with everything from antiques to brand new digs. It’s a treasure hunt of vendors at Lopez Hall once again. Window shopping is free, but bring cash just in case.

Lopez Hall, 7177 58th St. N. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

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with indie bands, Someday Honey and Vision Crystal at the Blueberry Patch’s outdoor artist retreat. The live blues will feature breaks of community painting with “The Illumi-Nation Project” setting up en plein air canvases for anyone and everyone’s paintbrush. Food and art vendors will arrive when the doors open at 7 p.m. The Blueberry Patch 4923 20th Ave S. 7-11 p.m. $10 Monday, August 23 Courtyard Trivia Make general knowledge a Monday night tradition with trivia night at the Low Tide Kava Bar & The North End Taphouse. Grab your willing teammates for a full-out local battle of wits that puts “Jeopardy!” to shame. Prizes, drinks and good eats will draw you in, the steep competition will keep you around.

Low Tide Kava Bar, 2902-A Beach Blvd. S. 8:30-10 p.m.

SMALL TOWN

BIG ART First Friday of Every Month Downtown Gulfport 3101 Beach Blvd. S.

5 - 9 PM For more information: VisitGulfportFlorida.com/first-friday-art-walk

23

the gabs August is national dog month. What is your favorite thing about dogs?

Photos by Gabrielle Reeder

Margo Dalgetty, Gulfport: “My favorite thing about Albie is that he brings me joy every day. Just something to smile about and he brings joy to a lot of people.”

Anthony Vieira, St. Petersburg: “My favorite thing about dogs is their unconditional love.”

Frankie Culbertson, Gulfport: “My favorite thing about a dog is that it gives me another being to love.”

Margo Rose, Gulfport: “When you have a little old one that would not be adopted and would be thrown away and you can bring her home and make her days happy.”

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theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

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Clothes–Collectibles–Gifts Household Goods A Ministry of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Proceeds go back into the community.

United Fellowship

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announcements Teen Volunteers Welcome Are you a teen who needs to fill community service hours for school or for a scholarship? The Gulfport Public Library here to help. Volunteer, make new friends and improve the library fulfilling your requirements. Email Cailey at cklasson@mygulfport.us or call 727-893-1074 for more.

Get Gulfport on the Go Check out the newest way to connect in Gulfport: an app for iOS and Android. The official City of Gulfport app gives residents a simple way to ask questions or report potholes, signs, trash or debris, code violations, among other things. Users can submit GPS data and photos, keep track of requests and find direct links to utility bill payment, the city calendar, frequently asked questions, the city employee directory, sanitation department, newsletter sign up and more. Email info@mygulfport.us, call 727-893-1118 or visit mygulfport.us/cityapp.

Eviction, Foreclosure Help and More If you need help, Pinellas County provides assistance information on eviction and foreclosure assistance, financial assistance, food pantry distribution sites, pet care assistance and more for those negatively affected by

theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

COVID-19. Visit covid19.pinellascounty.org/where-to-gethelp for more information. Text your zip code to 211 Tampa Bay Cares at 898211 or dial 211, 24 hours a day.

Donate Your Vehicle Have a vehicle you don’t need? Donate it for a good cause!

The Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center Foundation is making vehicle donations easy. They handle everything from the free pick-up and sale to getting you donation tax receipts. They accept many kinds of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles and even RVs. Donate your vehicle and know that you helped support programs like the Gulfport Senior Center Fitness Center and the Gulfport Senior Center Food Pantry. Call 727-893-1244 (9 a.m.1 p.m., Monday though Friday) or visit donatecarsforseniors.org.

Are You Prepared for a Storm?

We’ve all done it – scrambled for hurricane supplies at the last minute as a storm is headed our way. The time to prepare is now. Pinellas County has resources for everything you need to prepare for a hurricane, from evacuation zones and shelters, to supply lists and more. Visit pinellascounty.org/emergency or your local municipal building and pick up a copy of the county’s hurricane guide today.

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theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 31

On The Road

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 31

DONNA BUSFIELD

sudoku

Donna Busfield enjoyed her Gabber with family, while vacationing recently at Place Cove, North Hampton, NH.

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 | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

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

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains 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

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A. Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

Dressing In-Continence Care OCF Family Portal

1-866-425-9297

omnipresentcaregivers.com Cleaning / Housekeeping

PROFESSIONAL CARPET, GROUT & PRESSURE CLEANING

The pollen has finally subsided. Make your home beautiful again. We pressure clean fences, driveways, homes, sidewalks, pavers,

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727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

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

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED EC-13008313

theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

Handy Person

Home Improvement

HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-410-2201

INSPIRED DESIGN AND METICULOUS CRAFTSMANSHIP

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.

Built-ins, custom furniture and fine woodworking. Call for a free consultation. We are ready to turn your room or outdoor space into a place to be proud of. Yacht and boat services also available. 727-318-0311

SEMI RETIRED CARPENTER

MR. FIX ZIT LLC All your home projects that never get done, WE DO!! Over 30 years experience. Call today for free estimate. 727-2892862

At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Gulfport and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus, 727-6446194.

Miscellaneous Service

HANDY HELPER Skilled labor, hourly, daily or weekly. Anything around the house from A-Z. From plants to sod or repairs. Small jobs, free estimates. 30 years experience.

St Pete - Gulfport area. Call James 407244-6045

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!

Heat / Air Conditioning

Moving / Hauling CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-831-0507 Painting

ARTY’S PAINTING INC.

30 years experience. Painting Expert plus Wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arty 727-900-3459 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.

“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

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

Professional Services

LIZ’S WEDDING SERVICE

We offer wedding packages: Elopement/ quick ceremony, minimony, beach weddings, micro weddings, full wedding with rehearsal, vows renewal and marriage license by mail (authorized coordinator). lizsweddingservices.com; 727-350-6115.

TAMPA BAY FLOORS & CARPETS CLEANING SOLUTION

We offer Marble, Vinyl, Ceramic, Grout Cleaning, All Kinds of Carpet Cleaning. We Clean Upholstery, Also Power washing. We Cover All Your Cleaning Needs. We are fully Equipped We are 24:7 Emergency Flooding Service COVID Fumigation Available 727623-7948 Or 813-750-9851

theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

Help Wanted

HELP WANTED

Part time, 8 hrs per week, $12.50 Hr, yard & helper work, 727-480-3030

Automotive 2006 TOYOTA SOLARA SLE V-6 COUP Florida Vehicle, Pearl White, Sunroof, Cold a/c, only 110k original miles. $6150.00 727748-9117 2006 SATURN ION 3 One Owner, Lady Driven Florida Car. 86k miles, Clean Car Fax, no accidents, great transportation, very nice car. $3250.00 obo 727-748-9117 Card of Thanks POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE 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. TTD POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE 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. AD

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

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Card of Thanks OH 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.

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

ANGEL ERRANDS LLC Did your errands turn into a never-ending list of chores that has overwhelmed you? I’m here to help you with your errands and last minute needs, whether they’re for business or everyday things! Website: angelerrandsllc.com Ph: 727-256-4526 Email: angelerrandsllc@gmail.com General

FLORIDA BEACH BANQUETS WATERFRONT EVENT VENUE

Elegant, yet Affordable event space on St Pete Beach. Stunning views of Boca Ciega Bay. Space for your party for 10-150 guests.

Call today to book your room showing 727360-6961.

THE MOTHER EARTH FIRST PARTY Needs fundraising to top the PURPOSEFUL Prenatal Poisoning of American Children, who have no legal voice; we must have funds to be that voice. The Church of Dharma Prana Bio Nuclear Physics needs Students to learn the God Science of YR PHR Practical Quantum Mechanics Field Testing, so Enlightened Adults can intelligently protect the Children from the Purposeful Poisoning

by Testing the Field for PHR. If interested Ph. 727-906-2465 Health & Fitness

Looking for Shaklee?

YOUR LOCAL WELLNESS LADY WITH 29 YEARS EXPERIENCE Carla Clayton Certified Health Coach

727-342-0411 WELLNESSPLANS.NET

Real Estate For Sale

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

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com

Wanted WANTED: TANDEM RECUMBENT BIKE RENTAL Looking to rent a recumbent twofer in January and February. We’ll be in Gulfport, looking for adventure on the Pinellas Trail. Best case: a once-a-week rental for 6 weeks. Any info will result in much gratitude.

610-608-8515

Nelda Hamm

3037 Beach Blvd. S. 505 Pasadena Ave. S.

VENDORS & ARTISTS WANTED

New repurposed vintage mall opening in seminole featuring shabby chic, modern farmhouse & coastal home decor. Booths now available at “dwellings” 9120 seminole blvd. Contact Lou at loubabel@outlook.com or 727-743-6621 WANTED TO RENT IN GULFPORT Boat Dock for 35 ft sail boat with 5ft draft. Call Carl 727-278-0306

Their life deserves more than five lines.

We make sharing it affordable.

Remember your loved ones forever with us.

Free obituaries available; prices range from $10-$300 Obituary on Legacy included

ROCKOUT WHILE YOU WORKOUT

Cardio Drumming classes at Gulfport Nutrition. Any fitness level. Cost $9; includes a shake. A fun way to get your body moving! Come join a great community! Call Marlene 305-619-9734. 5012 Gulfport Blvd S. Six classes a week.

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theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

solution

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

Marie Drew

Licensed Broker

727-440-1000

YOUR GULFPORT LOCAL EXPERT! ERT!!

ERT theGabber.com | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021

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Open to the Public! Float on by!

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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 | August 19, 2021 - August 25, 2021