The Gabber: September 2, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2724

September 2 - September 8, 2021

A Labor Day Feast Labor Day weekend in Florida is a peculiar time for me. As a transplant from the Midwest who has now resided in the Sunshine State for over a decade, my chef brain never quite understands what to cook this time of year. While the rest of the country is starting to sip pumpkin spice lattes and replace their swimsuits with sweaters, Floridians are still in endless summer mode. Sure, this season’s watermelons have run their course and we’ve grilled enough zucchini to get a lifetime of Vitamin A, but we’re not really ready to turn the page to fall flavor profiles.

My late-summer snack choices aim to satiate those fresh, vibrant cravings without launching you right into autumnal hibernation.

These bites are quick to prepare and easily transportable. Whether you’re studying for school, sunsetting on the beach or gearing up for GeckoFest, these Labor Day munchies are designed to make the transition from summer to fall, Florida-style.

MORGAN BANNO

By Morgan Banno

Florida Food continued on page 26

Love the Gabber? There’s always more online!

A look at the comprehensive plan for Pinellas, join the preservation board, storm prep, COVID news and much more at thegabber.com.

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To Mask or Not to Mask? P.7

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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.

Debbie Dunbar

info@thegabber.com

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

Social Media Leah Petrakis

social@thegabber.com Serving Gulfport, South Pasadena, St. Petersburg West, Downtown St. Petersburg, Kenneth City, Tyrone, Tierra Verde, St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille, Treasure Island, Pinellas Point Owners Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

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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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.

ISABELLE’S SERVES: Wednesday - Sunday 4-9pm for dinner Thursday - Burger and a Beer Friday, Saturday & Sunday - Live Music 6-9pm 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 WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Book your stay – choose your room today and pick a special!

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The Peninsula Inn, 2937 Beach Blvd., Gulfport 33707 727-346-9800 • www.HistoricPeninsulaInn.com theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

voices Comments from the Gabber’s Facebook Page: BCHS Habitat for Humanity

Jennifer Gil Takes the Helm at Bogie

Donated their hours to the future homeowner. You have to work so many hours as part of the process of getting the home so all their hours will go towards her requirements. Single mom. – Donna Puckett

Welcome and THANK YOU for breaking up the lunch period into two. I know the students hate it, but its all about safety now. – Lesa Harrison Kurk ‘Significant’ Sewage Leak in Boca Ciega Bay

This is great! People forget that there are many good, charitable young people out there. Kudos to these young folks. – Robert Buscemi

Poor Mother Earth! Us humans just keep trying to kill her! – Danette Schmidt 100 Art 100 Days

​​ All it takes is 10 more condo towers flushing all day. The developers are not concerned, they already pocketed the cash. – CM Slicker

Congratulations! That’s wonderful news!! Thank you all so much!! – Janet Cataldo

nities we see construction in.

Hope all those new taxpayers add enough to the system to rebuild the water system correctly. Did the developers kick in $$$ already? – Tom Cathy Gruchacz

How soon until those new apartments in St Pete are done being built...Same for other commu-

I’m very grateful to Gulfport’s weekly, the Gabber, which is also Florida’s oldest weekly newspaper, for their article about my project to paint 100 paintings in 100 days for $100 each! – Jack Providenti

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news Return of the Gecko

Your Guide to Gulfport’s Favorite Festival From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 4, GeckoFest, Gulfport’s much-anticipated endof-summer event, will unfold into a multi-stage street carnival.

The Gabber has a complete list of events so that you can plan your day in Gulfport’s lizard-hot sun accordingly.

There will be music and performances all day, but big events like the Gecko Queen Coronation – traditionally held at the Gecko Ball, which was postponed this year due to COVID concerns – and the GeckoFest parade down Beach Boulevard are must-sees.

“I remember Jon (Ziegler, Gecko Queen Emeritus) cried a river when he gave the crown to me,” said reigning Queen Jody Robinson. “Anything to do with the crown makes people smile...and seeing all the creative costumes in this town is so fun.”

The theme this year is “Gecko Bandstand,” and attendees are encouraged to go all out, though a face covering isn’t a bad addition to this year’s costume wear.

To combat a rise in COVID-19 cases in Pinellas, social distancing and masks are highly recommended by

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JODY ROBINSON

By Abby Baker

Jody Robinson is the reigning Gecko Queen. Watch Jody pass the crown at this year’s street festival.

organizers the Gulfport Merchants Chamber.

South Caddy’s Stage DJ Lindy Romez will spin retro dance hits from 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

Gecko Queen Coronation: 5:30 p.m.

GeckoFest Walking Parade: 6 p.m.

Costume contest: 6:30 p.m.

City of Gulfport Fireworks: 9 p.m.-ish

North Blueberry Patch/Sea Dog Cantina Stage Laura Shepherd and Lucy Flute: 10– 11:15 a.m.

Beach Bum Barry: 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.

Solar Flair: 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Este Loves: 3–5 p.m.

Trevor Bystrom Band: 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Row Jomah: 8–10 p.m.

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

ANGELINA BRUNO

ANGELINA BRUNO

29th Avenue South – East Grovers Axe Throwing: ($10 for 10 throws) 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

The Crazy Indy Show: 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 9 p.m.

Vitale Magic: 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:30 p.m. & 9 p.m.

29th Avenue South – West: The Dallas and Nick Show: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.

30th Avenue South: World Stage Productions Breakdancers: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.

31st Avenue: The Strong and Amazing Show: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.

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theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

To Mask or Not to Mask?

Local Restaurant Owners Make Their Own Rules Some Gulfport businesses have enacted strict mask policies and even vaccine requirements for employees – despite the executive order from Governor Ron DeSantis banning municipal mask mandates, it’s all completely legal.

Private businesses can enforce mask mandates as part of a uniform, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and they can also require employees to get COVID-19 vaccines, barring a disability or an employee’s religious exemptions.

Because there are no government-ordered mask or vaccine mandates, however, businesses can also choose to forgo any type of CDC-recommended COVID safety guidelines.

In Gulfport Pia Goff, owner of Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport, is taking full precautions. The restaurant began enforcing vaccination requirements for her staff on August 3.

The popular spot at 3054 Beach Blvd. S. also has a mask-on policy for both employees and customers.

Goff enacted the policy in response to rising COVID numbers in Pinellas, a surge fueled by the highly contagious Delta variant.

“Out of 50 employees, one chose not to be vaccinated and one is still contemplating,” Goff said August 24. The employee who chose not to be vaccinated no longer works at the restaurant.

Guests must wear a face covering while standing up inside the building, but are welcome to take it off once they sit down or are in the outdoor seating area.

“I’d say 90% of our customers wear the mask with no problems, and the other 10% are very vocal about disagreeing with it,” Goff said. “That’s sad for our employees because people can get angry and they didn’t make the policy – I did.”

Pia’s also prints and trashes

menus each day to avoid contamination.

Stella’s, a neighboring breakfast and brunch spot at 2914 Beach Blvd.

S., enforces similar precautions.

According to owner Barbara Banno, she isn’t requiring vaccinations, but is enforcing mask wear inside for staff and recommends face covering outdoors for visitors and staff.

The majority of Stella’s seating is outdoors, however, making the mask policy difficult to enforce, says Banno.

“It was challenging at first during the summer,” Banno said. “It’s a long hot day out there, but my staff understands the importance of this issue.”

Online menus and ordering are also an option for those that want to forgo the potential germs. Some local restaurants, like PJ’s on St. Pete Beach, have switched to QR codes for contact-less menus.

“Since the beginning, COVID-19 has been a constant moving target that we’ve been faced with,” Banno said. “We have and will continue to follow CDC guidelines through this.”

Numbers Continue to Rise COVID cases are still on the rise in Pinellas County, with 6,790 cases reported for the week of August 20 through the 26 – a positivity rate of 18% – according to the most recent weekly report available at press time from the Florida Department

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Stella’s Hostess Dakota Roman wears a mask while working outside.

of Health, while 6,779 Pinellas residents received a vaccine in that time period.

According to the CDC, “The risk of COVID-19 spread increases in a restaurant or bar setting as interactions within 6 feet of others increase.” The CDC currently recommends masks in restaurants and bars “for employees and for customers as much as possible when not eating or drinking and when social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.”

Learn more about CDC guidelines and safety recommendations at cdc.gov. Find a vaccine near you at covid19.pinellascounty.org/vaccines.

Gifts for pets and the people who love them.

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theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

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People Helping People

From Gulfport to Haiti, Here’s Where You Can Help

By Abby Baker

From hurricane relief to school needs during the pandemic, many local organizations and businesses are looking to help those in need.

The Gabber compiled a short list of urgent and long-term collection causes in the area for those who have the means to donate.

St. Petersburg’s women-led, Black-owned Southside Fresh Market is collecting donations for 100 families in need living in what is considered the quake center of Haiti.

Located at 2184 9th Ave. S., Southside owner Ramona Brayboy is collecting drop-offs every Sunday through September from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on behalf of the Souvenir Children’s Foundation.

“A lot of times, Haiti gets overlooked and they are a very small country, so they need the extra support,” Brayboy said.

Donors are asked to bring toiletries, tents, aqua tabs, school supplies, clothes, money and anything else that people may need in a disaster.

Kayda, the vendor who owns Real Roots at Southside, is personally taking the donations to the island.

“There can be some corruption, so I made sure to link up with someone I know personally,” Brayboy said. “Her aunt lives in Haiti.”

LAURA MALROONEY

From Southside to Haiti

See a complete list of items and information for the next collection on Sunday, September 5 at fb.com/ southsidefreshmarket.

Clothe Gulfport Elementary Families of students at Gulfport Montessori Elementary may need extra help with school uniforms,

particularly in the beginning of the school year.

That fact is not lost on Gulfport Elementary social worker Marissa G. Stewart, who says collections are given to those in need.

“We like to have them on hand for students...especially the little ones who may have accidents,” Donations continued on page 11

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Donations continued from page 8

Stewart said. “Sometimes families need a little extra help in general.”

You can drop donations at Gulfport Nutrition, 5012 Gulfport Blvd., Monday through Friday, 7:15 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dress code and sizes: Little kids – boys and girls tops and pants/shorts/skirts – 4, 5, 6x.

Big kids – Girls pants/shorts/skirts – 7/8, 10/12, 14, 16 Girls tops – Small – XL Boys pants/shorts – 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 Boys tops – Small – XL Polos may be worn in any solid color, with no stripes, graphics, pictures, numerals, slogans, etc. Tops must have a collar unless they are a school logo t-shirt. Bottoms such as pants, shorts and skirts must be solid navy blue or khaki. No denim.

Solid colored leggings or tights may be worn underneath uniform skirts or shorts.

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Smokin J’s is Off For the first time this hurricane season, Smokin J’s BBQ in Gulfport is loading a truck of donations to bring to victims of the South’s latest natural disaster, Hurricane Ida, which landed in Louisiana early Monday, August 30.

“I understand these are very tough times for all, which is why we are starting now,” said owner John Riesbeck. “Depending on landfall we will be heading out Labor Day to bring what looks like much needed relief.”

Riesbeck says he will accept donations everyday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the restaurant at 5145 Gulfport Blvd. S., until Labor Day, Monday, September 6, though the date may change.

“Those not wanting to shop, I go daily and will be glad to pick up anything you’d like,” Riesbeck wrote.

“Thank you in advance for your continued support.”

This is Riesbeck’s ninth hurricane trip over the years. He is accepting water, masks, blankets, first aid sup-

plies and other necessities. Clothes and shoes are not recommended.

Spotlight Alert: Gulfport Teens The Gulfport Teen Council collected an array of toiletries for Boca Ciega’s Hygiene Closet over the summer.

“The school created a hygiene closet for less fortunate students to utilize in order to improve attendance and who might not have the necessary supplies to keep their health and hygiene in good shape to attend school more regularly,” the Gulfport Recreation Center wrote in a press release.

While the hygiene product drive is technically over, people with additional items such as toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary products and more, are welcome to bring them to the school’s front office at 924 58th St. S. during operating hours.

“The Gulfport Teen Council is proud to give back to the teens in the community,” read the release.

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Boat Begone

Contractor Removes Boat Abandoned Since Eta Near 49th Street Pinellas County contractor Divecom Marine Services removed an abandoned sailboat beached at the end of 49th Street South in Gulfport after more than a year of stagnant not-sailing.

Divecom workers removed the 33-foot sailboat, beached last year during Hurricane Eta, on August 26, Gulfport Harbormaster Denis Frain told the Gabber.

“The [Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission] had the case and they allowed enough time to go by for the county to deem the vessel salvageable,” Frain said. “I’d imagine that’s because the county has the funding to remove it; Gulfport doesn’t.”

Divecom is the same diving contractor that removed the large red boat – another victim of Eta – from Gulfport Beach this February.

“I believe the owner didn’t have the means or the money to remove it themselves,” Divecom co-owner Devin Boersma said of the 49th Street boat. “I believe that’s typically what happens in these cases.”

Boersma noted the sailboat was “quite a bit smaller” than the red vessel previously removed.

“It looked to be anywhere from 10 to 12,000 pounds,” Boersma said. “Given how close to the shore she was, we brought in a tow truck to pull it and lift it in.”

The vessel is currently being

LESLEE CRAMER

By Abby Baker

reduced to bits at a facility in Palm Meadows, near Boynton Beach.

Gulfport resident Leslee Cramer witnessed the Thursday removal first hand.

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Renaissance Dad: Party Like It’s 1975 Live music is back. Or, at least it was for a brief moment in July before Florida rolled out the red carpet for the Delta variant. (Prediction: The Delta Variant will be a popular rock band coming to an outdoor festival near you.) Back in July, my vaccinated wife and I loaded up our two kids and our masks to attend an indoor concert.

Taking our kids to a concert has proven risky. The first show we ever took them to was when we spent a semester of their college savings to see Bruno Mars at the zenith of his stardom. When Mr. Mars took the stage with a horn section and pyrotechnics, our terror-stricken young children fell to the floor holding their shattered eardrums and broken souls. (The retelling was my most-read column when the Gabber publisher and I dominated another news publication.)

When my wife buys concert tickets, it’s time to dust off your eight tracks. She’s a connoisseur of anything post-Beatles, pre-U2. How would our kids handle an indoor show of 1970s bands whose careers are at, well... what’s the op-

JON KILE

By Jon Kile

Our daughter declined an official photo opportunity with one of Firefall’s talented replacement members – in the flowered shirt.

posite of “zenith”? We took them to the cool comfy confines of Ruth Eckerd Hall to see three bands whose combined hits might fill the A-side of a Time/Life mail-order box set. I’m talking about light favorite juggernauts: Pure Prairie

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League, Firefall and Orleans.

For those unfamiliar with these truck stop jukebox heroes, Pure Prairie League is most known for their mega hit “Amie” (whatchu wanna do-oo?) and for their most famous member, Vince Gill, being in the band for about five minutes.

I steeled myself to endure three hours of woozy guitar solos before finally hearing “Amie.”

Firefall is a band I’d never heard of. Ever. But I knew their hit, “You Are the Woman” (that I’ve always dreamed of). Orleans is known for “Dance With Me” as well as a couple of other pleasing soft hits.

Their deep-voiced guitarist John Hall had a memorable stint in the U.S. Congress. The trivia in these bands runs deep.

It’s a lot to ask a child to sit through three and a half hours of music sprinkled with three or four songs they vaguely recognize from long car rides. Our kids were by far the youngest in the audience.

Monica and I were the second youngest. But the musicianship and fine acoustics held our young ones rapt. Each of these bands are down to two or three original members, plus a “new guy” who

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

has “only” been with them for 25 years, and someone who may not have been born when they had their first record deal.

Our kids were entertained not just by the music, but by the gyrations of a few over-served patrons near the front. (I love it when one person wants to dance, and also feels compelled to angrily implore the rest of the seated audience to join them.)

I was excited that Pure Prairie League took the stage first, but I grew a little concerned when they played for more than an hour and fifteen minutes before getting around to the one song I knew. If each band planned to play their “deep cuts” we might not make it to the second intermission. But Firefall’s lead gui-

surviving members of the ‘70s tarist, Jock Bartley (best ‘70s Monsters of Lite Rock bade farerock name ever), attacked their well to the surviving members of set with the zeal of a man with the audience and an old-timer a mint condition Dodge converoffered us a broad grin and fistsion van in his carport. bump: “CongratulaBy the time “Our kids were enter- tions on making it Orleans took the stage, tained not just by the mu- all the way through. our daughter sic, but by the gyrations Impressive!”

I can’t tell if our was soundly of a few over-served pakids are sincere or asleep in one trons.” if they’re blowing of Ruth Ecksmoke when they tell us how erd’s big plush seats, and our son much fun they had. I don’t realwas getting antsy. But while the ly care. I didn’t mind indulging crowd’s most entertaining dancFirefall’s “new stuff” or Orleans’ ing drunks didn’t have the stayextended jams. After almost two ing power to hear Orleans’ greatyears without seeing a live show, est hit, we were still there when to hold my wife’s hand while she the house lights came up. sings “Amie” like it’s 1975 is about We made it to the glorious end, the best way to spend a summer singing “You’re Still the One” like evening.

Gerald Ford was president. The

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15

Business Beat

Sea Dog’s New Management, Shopping Center Sells & Beach House Celebrates

By Abby Baker

Margarita enthusiasts in Gulfport may have noticed that Beach Boulevard’s spot for Mexican eats, Sea Dog Cantina, closed for two weeks on August 17 before hosting a grand reopening on Wednesday, September 1.

While much remains the same at the 2832 Beach Blvd S. spot, the restaurant is now under new management – and added a new rule that requires all staff to wear masks.

Sea Dog general manager Jessie Hatch, a newly Gulfportian transplant from Maine, came to the state to completely sanitize the restaurant, and retrain and rehire a crew.

“We want to move forward with the new staff in place and properly train our team so that we can put our best foot forward,” Hatch said.

“People will see some familiar faces

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Sea Dog Cantina in Gulfport closed for two weeks in August and reemerged on September 1 with new management and COVID-19 guidelines for staff.

and some new ones...I would say the majority of the staff stayed on.”

Hatch noted that face coverings for guests will not be mandatory.

“All our food and cocktails will essentially be the same with maybe a few tweaks,” Hatch said. “We really want to focus on being more

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theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

PXHERE

The South Pasadena Shopping Center sold to a New York real estate investment firm.

involved in the community – that’s a primary goal.”

South Pasadena Shopping Center Sold A South Pasadena Shopping Center, anchored by a Walmart Neighborhood Market at 6818 Gulfport Blvd. S., sold to South Pasadena R2G LLC for $32.65 million in July.

The new owners represent a New York-based realty firm that owns a number of similar shopping centers throughout the country, with a handful in Florida.

According to Pinellas County prop-

erty records, the previous owners were Atlanta-based Branch Properties, a private real estate investment firm focused on grocery-anchored shopping centers.

The center, which remains open, is 166,188 square feet with eight separate buildings and more than 30 separate businesses, including Anytime Fitness and Ace Hardware.

One Year with Beach House Gulfport’s very pink local art gallery, Beach House 5317, conveniently located at 5317 Gulfport Blvd., is

hosting a ribbon cutting after one year of business.

Beach House is not alone in its delayed celebration with the Gulfport’s Merchant Chamber. Many local businesses are hosting overdue ribbon-cutting ceremonies that were postponed in 2020 due to COVID concerns.

“The support of the community has been amazing; opening in the middle of COVID was a risk, but it’s working,” said owner Jamie Edwards.

The celebration will be held on Friday, September 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. and features a raffle for donated artwork by local artists, snacks by the Funky Flamingo and ice cream from Great Heights Creamery.

Up until the event, every purchase at the Beach House comes with a ticket to Friday’s raffle.

“We have a ton of talent in the shop...30 artists and curators and it’s all unique,” Edwards said. “You can’t find these types of things anywhere else.”

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17

Residents Speak Up

Public Input Time Unchanged for Now in South Pasadena

By Cheryl A. Koski

JUNE JOHNS

The amount of public input in South Pasadena remains unchanged, at least for now.

But momentarily, during discus-

sions on a new marina expansion plan, it appeared that the South Pasadena City Commission was moving to reduce the time that individuals

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could speak at its meetings from five minutes to three minutes.

That’s just a couple of minutes. No big deal, right?

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Not so fast, says resident Marj Loronment.” The removal of sand in the rand, whose home sits 500 feet from bay – known as maintenance dredgthe marina at Causeway Village, a ing – to allow easy access to the promobile home park where the number posed additional 24 boat slips would of boat slips may increase from 11 to damage the seagrass beds that serve 35, explains. as the primary food source for mana “It’s a complicated issue, and peotees, she said. ple had a lot to say about it,” she said.

Environmental concerns regarding A commission meeting on the issue the marina expansion intersect with held on April 13, 2021 ran late into the other issues, the residents say. night.

“People are going to lose their It ran so late that the developer in homes,” Chiappetta said, echoing charge of expanding the marina, Hans Lorand, who thinks the residents of J. M. Wilson, PresiCauseway Village dent of Hans Wilson “This isn’t ‘hide the ball’; are “being led by & Associates in Fort this isn’t trying to ram- the nose” into alMeyers, expressed rod anything. There’s lowing the marina his frustration in an to be turned into a no gotcha here.” email message sent so-called “regional to the City Clerk for South Pasadena, attractor” of business intended not Carley Lewis, on April 16, 2021. to enhance Causeway Village, but to “I would really like to thank the broaden the tax base. commissioners for their patience and Then there is the question of the for their ability to see through the proper procedure for changing the hysteria and focus on the facts,” Hans time limits for residents to address Wilson wrote, adding, “Do you always the commission, either by revising the have that type of comment on such city resolution that has been in effect simple things?” since 1995 or by making modifications Lorand believes that the expansion to the city code itself or both. of the marina is anything but simple.

Noting that “three minutes is genAmong her concerns with expanding erally the norm” for speaking to govthe marina include the disruption of ernmental bodies in Tampa Bay – the the seagrass beds where manatees City of Gulfport has a three-minute forage in Boca Ciega Bay. The comlimit on public comment – the attormissioners are “oblivious to what’s ney for the City of South Pasadena, happening in this bay,” said Lorand, Julia Mandell, said that it was she, who notes that maintaining the currather than the city commissioners, rent amount of public input is critical, who brought forward the recommenespecially because “we have so little dation to reduce the public input time impact anyway.” limit from the current five minutes.

Another resident of South PasaMandell later rescinded the recomdena agrees. According to Sandra mendation pending further study of Chiappetta, “The number of slips is the issue. obscene and a hindrance to the envi “My job as city attorney is to give

my best advice” in bringing South Pasadena in line with other nearby cities, Mandell said. Addressing those who oppose reducing public input, she added, “This isn’t ‘hide the ball’; this isn’t trying to ramrod anything.

There’s no gotcha here.”

The city clerk told the Gabber that, because reducing public input at meetings of the city commission is not on the agenda at this time, the city commissioners would have no comment.

However, both Lorand and Chiappetta fully expect the issue of reducing public input to resurface.

“If they can legally do it, they will,” said Lorand.

Whether that objective could be achieved via the city resolution or the city code or both, limiting the public’s ability to respond to the ramifications of the proposed redevelopment plan is “a really big deal,” said Chiappetta.

“The city is us,” she said. “The city is the people.”

An administrative workshop with the city commission is scheduled for September 21. It was originally intended to explore the possibility of reducing public input during meetings of the city commission, but Mandell now says her own “workload issues” prevent her from raising the issue again as she had planned.

Anyone is allowed to observe administrative workshops, either in person or on Spectrum Channel 643, but for the most part, members of the general public are not allowed to speak during administrative workshops given that they are exploratory in nature.

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@gabberlife

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19

arts Otherworldly Art

Fairgrounds St. Pete Provides an Escape From Reality After six months of wrangling artists, the Warehouse Arts District is opening the doors to an-ever changing but permanent interactive art installation dubbed Fairgrounds St. Pete on Thursday, September 2.

Once a collection of offices, the 5,000-square-foot space is now a screaming neon Alice-in-Wonderland-meets-Florida experience that is run separately, but attached to The Factory St. Pete at 2622 Fairfield Ave. S. Otherworldly Meets Local Co-founders Liz Dimmitt, Mikhail Mansion and Olivia Mansion came together to string the works of 64 local creators into one space.

“The idea is that this is an adventure into weird, wacky, wonderful Florida – but that’s a mouthful,” CEO Dimmitt said. “Really, this is a whole new world made by artists that everyone is welcome to explore.”

Fairgrounds is the place to be for artists, as the attraction provides each participating creator with a percentage of the ticket sales for

FAIRGROUNDS ST. PETE

By Abby Baker

as long as their work is on display.

As Dimmitt puts it, royalties for artists.

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gallery, Nick Davis of NDArtlife, National Geographic photographer Carlton Ward and over 60 more will have both small and colossal marks on the space.

“I really love the attention to detail,” Dimmitt said. “It’s the little things that make this something to be proud of.”

What to Expect Visitors can wander the motel motif or dig a little deeper into the interactive experience of Fairgrounds, which is centered around a couple who’ve gone missing while visiting the Mermaid Star Motel.

The 1970s-style roadside-hotel narrative leads mystery lovers through hurricanes, alligators and murderous themes as a homage to old Sunshine State stereotypes.

“There’s no set outcome; you can

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

FAIRGROUNDS ST. PETE FAIRGROUNDS ST. PETE

FAIRGROUNDS ST. PETE

interpret the story in many different ways,” Dimmitt said. “In fact, there’s people on our team that have very different interpretations of what’s happening.”

The exhibit exists in broad spaces as well as many small “motel rooms,” filled wall-to-ceiling with art – a theme that made sense with the building’s previous office space life.

“It’s made for every type of person: kids, young adults, Boomers,” Dimmitt said. “The more you come, the more you’ll get out of it. I hope people will come, and I hope they’ll keep coming back.”

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brendamcmahongallery 21

Naked and Powerful

Artist Rhyn Cavallaro Gets ‘Out There’ St. Petersburg native Rhyn Cavallaro is painting her hometown colorful – and mostly nude.

“I am a gay female artist; I identify as lesbian and surround myself with other strong, powerful women,” Cavallaro said. “I want to represent that power and nudity tends to make that femininity more digestible.”

Her current favorite child is the painting “Lot Fees,” an acrylic-on-canvas piece that features a Florida woman sporting oversized sunglasses, a tattooed breast and a possum scarf outside a mobile home.

“It’s a whole story in one scene,” Cavallaro said. “I used to dismember my characters, but as I’m growing as an artist, I want to put the scene together.”

Cavallaro studied studio art at Butte College in California to sharpen her form before returning home.

In the last five years, her use of bold

RHYN CAVALLARO

By Abby Baker

Deer skull, goat mandibles and a rabbit pelvis suspended in an antique frame in Rhyn Cavallaro’s “Bound.”

Elizabeth Bell stars in this one-woman comedy about the mistress of manners herself, Eppie Lederer, a.k.a. Ann Landers. Based on her life and letters, and filled with secrets, regrets, and triumphs, this play focuses on her two closest relationships - her husband and her twin sister better known as Dear Abby.

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theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

RHYN CAVALLARO

“Lot Fees” by Rhyn Cavallaro. “I do love the curve of the female form,” Cavallaro said. “It’s reflected in my art.”

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colors and content has surpassed the norm.

“I like to change the roles of color,” Cavallaro said. “I can be really out there.”

When she’s not painting the female form, she’s returning to a motif of bones.

“I include a lot of bones in my artwork, and I think that freaks people out,” Cavallaro said. “There’s beauty in everything we have, and we all die. We will all become bones one day.”

She also identifies as a professional doodler, but as Cavallaro’s name grows throughout the St. Petersburg art scene, her work is becoming more prominent around town.

Cavallaro’s next solo show, “Wild Women,” premiers at St. Petersburg’s Wayward Goose this October.

“I’ve had solo shows before, but they were clumsy,” she said. “This one is going to be amazing. I make my art for other people to see, so I can’t wait.”

Keep up with the artist at instagram.com/color_rhyn

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23

Poet for Hire

Giovanni Cerro Takes His Typewriter to the Streets In the last four years, Giovanni Cerro and his sticker-decked typewriter have composed more than 4,000 on-the-spot poems for anyone with $20 and a need for inspiration.

A self-proclaimed “traveling poet for hire,” Cerro lives in St. Petersburg with his wife, Kayley Robsham, and spends his days trekking to Bay area art events with his typewriter and a desk – a combination that he calls “Gios Typos.”

The grammatical pun is intended, apparently.

Recently, Cerro set up shop at Coastal Creative’s Weird Florida Art Show on August 20 and typed 25 poems for his line of curious word lovers.

A topic and a donation results in a printed poem on the back of a National Geographic map, no matter where he is.

“I just think of myself as a writer,

ABBY BAKER

By Abby Baker

Traveling street poet Giovanni Cerro takes “Gios Typos” on the road.

but poetry is my main shtick,” Cerro said. “I’ve always liked the idea of refining something as much as you possibly can in the littlest amount of words.”

Busking Words The maps are his trademark, but he got the idea of selling poetry while visiting Seattle.

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on the street and figured out what I got.”

Do you ever get stumped?

GIOVANNI CERRO

No. I’ve had maybe two people not like my poems, but I guess it just wasn’t their thing. Of course people try to stump you if you’re out on the street with a typewriter, but I run with it.

Favorite topic?

I like it when people give me like three or four random topics and I have to weave things together. I was at Armature Works one time and this guy gave me the words “KGB, Russia, cannabis.” It was like seven words that I can’t remember now.

“I saw this woman on the street doing her thing and I thought ‘I have a typewriter, I can write poetry, I should do that,” Cerro. “So I came to St. Petersburg and set it up.”

His first gig was outside Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails on Central Avenue, and his first street poem was for the owner of Billy’s Corner Barber Shop in St. Petersburg.

“He wanted a poem for his soonto-be granddaughter...his wife cried when she read it, then she gave me money,” Cerro said. “That was it for me.”

While Cerros’ love affair with words began with his first shot at poetry at age 9, before he became a “poet for hire” he was working as a technician’s assistant for Tesla.

It was “not as gratifying, but a cool job,” he said.

“I would wake up an hour early in the morning to write at the coffee shop before work,” Cerro said. “I was writing a lot about corpses and corporations at that point.”

At 35, he’s since said goodbye to his previous life and dedicates his time to “writing for the people.”

“I always knew deep in my bones that I wanted to write, and affect change in that way,” Cerro said. “A lot of the people that I met that were writers were giving me the spiel about going back to school. So I sat

But that was the gist and I had to make something up from just that.

It’s cool, I have to make a story with those loose words. I made up something about assassins.

Do you ever write poems for your wife?

I have. I haven’t recently, but I should.

I’ve written so much for her but when you write everyday.... In the beginning when we first met, I used to hide poems all over Black Crow Coffee for her to find. Her love language is words of affirmation so it worked.

Keep up with Gios Typos at fb.com/ Giostypo. Want a poem and can’t track him down? Email giostypos@ gmail.com.

Submit your events online at thegabber.com

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25

food Birria tacos are all the rage on social media and are the epitome of #FoodPorn. The OG birria tacos are made with rich, juicy beef, but try putting a Florida spin on them by using alligator! Gator is very lean (read: chewy) so braising it low and slow is the best way to go. You can usually find gator meat at Ryan’s Meat Market in St. Pete or at Bayway Country Store and Butcher Shop.

For my fellow veg-heads and clean eaters, falafel is an extra tasty way to get plant-based protein. Densely packed with herbaceous, earthy ingredients, my Mediterranean falafel bites pay homage to my time in culinary school. To cut calories, bake the balls in the oven or cook in an air fryer. But they are best enjoyed after frying. The most important tip to remember when making falafel from scratch: Use dry chickpeas, not canned! Dry chickpeas give falafel its signature texture and the best consistency.

Craving seafood? Warm crab canapés combine sweet summer corn with lump crabmeat and are served on mini scratch-made cheddar biscuits.

Round out the last of your summertime cooking with my fresh vegetable crostinis. This vegan play on a tea sandwich combines homemade beet hummus with juicy heirloom tomatoes, crunchy radish discs and allium for a refreshing bite that explodes with as much flavor as it does color!

Find recipes for all these Labor Day snack ideas with this article at thegabber.com.

MORGAN BANNO

Florida Food continued from cover

Mediterranean Falafel Bites Serves four

Ingredients: 8 oz chickpeas, dried 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 ½ oz green onions, chopped 1 ½ oz fresh cilantro, washed and chopped ¼ oz fresh parsley, chopped and ground 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp coriander, ground ⅛ tsp cayenne 1 ½ tsp salt ½ tsp pepper oil for frying Method: Rinse and drain chickpeas. Place in a container and add water to cover by three inches. Soak overnight. Drain chickpeas and purée

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in a food processor with all of the other ingredients. Blend until coarse mixture forms. (The mix should hold together, but not be pasty.) Form mixture into eight balls and pan/deep fry until golden brown and crispy. I recommend serving with Tzatziki, hummus or creamy garlic sauce!

Braised Gator Birria Tacos Serves six

Ingredients: 2 lb alligator meat Marinade: 3 each Guajillo peppers, dried ¼ c vinegar ½ c crushed tomatoes 5 garlic cloves 1 tsp oregano, dried ½ tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp cumin Stew: 4 tbsp duck fat (recommended) or lard 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 cinnamon stick 2 bay leaves ¼ tsp ground clove 1 qt beef stock

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

Tacos: corn tortillas veggies of choice cheese of choice Method: Preheat oven to 325°. Cube gator meat into large chunks and set aside. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and soak the dried Guajillo peppers off the heat for 15 minutes to rehydrate. Seed and stem peppers.

Combine peppers and rest of the marinade ingredients in food processor until a smooth paste forms.

Marinate the gator meat for two hours or overnight. Heat fat in a Dutch oven over medium high heat.

Add gator and sear on all sides until crust forms. Remove from heat and set aside. Add onion to Dutch oven and cook until caramelized. Add cinnamon stick, bay leaves, clove and garlic until aromatic. Add gator meat and marinade back to Dutch oven mixture. Cover with beef stock and bring to a simmer. Remove Dutch oven from stove top, cover and braise in oven for three to four

hours or until meat is tender and falls apart. Discard bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Reserve the broth for dipping. (Additional stock may be needed to thin out the consistency.)

Shred gator meat and set aside.

To make the tacos, dip both sides tortilla in broth/consommé, assemble with cheese and veggies of choice and heat in large sauté over medium high heat. Once cheese starts to melt, add gator meat and more cheese. Fold tortilla over and pan fry until crispy. Serve with hot gator consommé for dipping.

Fresh Vegetable Crostinis Ingredients: 1 beet, fresh 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed ⅔ c tahini Juice and zest from 2 lemons 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp kosher salt ⅓ c olive oil 1 package pita bread

1 container baby heirloom tomatoes 3 each radishes, raw chives for garnish Method: Preheat oven to 400°. Peel and roast the beet for 15 minutes. Combine roasted beet with chickpeas, tahini, lemon zest and juice, cumin and kosher salt in food processor. Slowly add the olive oil to the mix until desired consistency is reached. Remove from processor and set aside. Over open flame, grill pita bread until toasted. Slice bread into uniform, bite-size rectangles. Spread hummus on grilled pita squares. Top with thinly sliced baby heirloom tomatoes and thinly sliced radish; garnish with chives.

Serve cold or room temperature.

Help make history, VOTE ProjectFREE for Best of the Bay! ProjectFREE ADT Rock Band Program in Gulfport has been nominated for a Best of the Bay this year in the Non-Academic Music School category. We are the ONLY rock band with ID Musicians. This is a big honor competing with able body performers and music schools. We are asking that you, your friends, and family please vote everyday including September 9 for ProjectFREE. This is a win for all Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Thanks for all of your support! Kim Costanzo, Executive Director, ProjectFREE

Scan QR code and Vote Today!

Go down 11 slots to ProjectFREE and vote.

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

27

TRAVEL IS FUN TOURS

Licensed FL Seller of Travel #ST12255

727-347-1600

• • • •

Tours Designed with you in mind!

Full Brochures available on all trips!

Over 38 years in business Expert Drivers, Luxury Coaches!

www.tiftours.com

919 Tyrone Blvd, St. Pete, FL 33710

MYRTLE BEACH—OCEAN OCEAN VIEW!!!

NOVEMBER 14-19, 2021—6 DAY

Includes: 9 Meals, 3 Nt stay at the lovely BEACH COVE RESORT RESORT— All Rooms Ocean View! 3 Great Holiday Shows, Barefoot Queen Lunch Cruise, Afternoon in Savannah and much more!!!

COST: $939* per person double or $1192 single

TROPICAL CHRISTMAS DEC 25-27, 2021—3 DAY

Includes: 6 Meals (2B, 2L, 2D) Two night’s hotel accommodations at the Drury Inn in Fort Myers, with nightly 5:30 Kickback with food and drinks and a full, hot buffet breakfast, included daily, Broadway Palm Dinner Theater for Christmas dinner and “HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS” song & dance extravaganza on Christmas Night, BABCOCK WILDERNESS with lunch included!

Also includes an Amish buffet midday meal at Der Dutchman in Sarasota.

COST: $479* per person double or $569 single

SPECTACULAR NEW YEARS EVE DEC 30, 2021—JAN JAN 1, 2022, 3 DAY

Includes: 5 Meals, 2 Nights at the Ft Myers Holiday Inn Express, New Years Eve visit to the Immokalee Casino with live music, dance floor & party favors! Plus visits to Braden Castle, Peace River Wildlife Center, a performance of “Singin in the Rain” at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, Sunset tour at the Ford & Edison estates to see the holiday lights and much much more!

COST: $509* per person double or $629 single More Great 2021 Multi-Day Tours

•

FEB 13, 6 DAY—NEW ORLEANS VALENTINE! - 3 nights in NOLA!!!...$TBD *Price is Per Person for Double Occupancy

Plus Dozens of Great Day Trips! Here are just a few!

• • •

• • • •

•

• •

SEP 9, THU—”NIGHT ON BROADWAY” at Broadway Palm with lunch!...$105 SEP 12, SUN—WAT TAMPA BUDDHIST TEMPLE & FOOD MARKET…$34 SEP 17, FRI—TRAVEL IS FUN MYSTERY TOUR—Where will we go? What will we see? Sign up & find out! Great Dinner & Entertainment!...$99 SEP 18, SAT—LAKERIDGE WINERY— Included Tour Tasting & Music!...$39 SEP 20, MON—TOM & JERRY AIRBOAT RIDE—Lake Panasoffkee…$79 SEP 23, THU—LUNCH BUNCH with Todd at Ozona Blue in Palm Harbor…$59 SEP 24, FRI—BOK TOWER GARDENS & Spook Hill in Lake Wales. Come see Edward Bok’s gift to Florida—the Beautiful Gardens are filled with music from the carillon bells in the tower every half hour, lunch on your own…$39 SEP 25, SAT—FISHERMAN’s VILLAGE Key Lime Festival, Sales, Shops & Music! Plus all kinds of Key lime delicacies! Nice trip to Punta Gorda…$39 SEP 27, MON—RINGLING MUSEUM of Art in Sarasota, Lunch on own…$39/$59 SEP 29. WED—GIRAFFE RANCH! Meet Giraffes & More in Dade City!...$109

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

WEDNESDAY SEP 22nd, 1:30PM at Big Apple Buf fet in Tyrone Gardens or on Youtube live!!

28

GULFPORT Neptune Grill

5501 Shore Blvd. S. Friday, September 3: Chello Holiday Band 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, September 4: Rhythm and Boone Duo 6-9 p.m.

The Tiki Bar & Grill at 56th & Shore

5519 Shore Blvd. S Sunday, September 5: Hot Tonic 6-9 p.m.

ST. PETE BEACH

The Toasted Monkey

678 75th Ave. Friday, September 3: Motel Funk 6-10 p.m.

Saturday, September 4: Conspiracy 6-10 p.m.

Chill Restaurant and Bar

357 Corey Ave. Friday, September 3: Brothers Gabriel 6 p.m.

Burgerish Bar & Grille

4755 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, September 3: Steve Isaac 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, September 4: Erika Najibo 6-9 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ricky T’s Bar and Grille

10601 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, September 3: Big Brother Band 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 4: Kevin Toon 5 p.m.

Sloppy Joe’s

10650 Gulf Blvd.

Sunday, September 5: Josh Fielding 6-10 p.m

MADEIRA BEACH

Daiquiri Shak Raw Bar & Grille 21995 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, September 3: Kevin Toon 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, September 4: Jeff Gurney 6-10 p.m.

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Geckos, Coffee & a Dance Party Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

All Month Long A Day at the Fair Explore an explosion of local art and fantasy at an interactive exhibit experience Fairgrounds St. Pete. This colorful escape features the work of over 60 creators and a Florida side-show style walk through narrative at The Factory. The doors open to the public on September 2, but this is a permanent addition to the Warehouse Arts District. The Factory, 2622 Fairfield Ave. S. 5-9 p.m.

Friday, September 3 Art Walkin’ So much art packed in to just one Friday a month. It’s the First Friday Art Walk in Gulfport and Beach Boulevard will be filled with local artwork and creators.

Find a new muse, tip street performers and try out Gulfport eats.

Gulfport Waterfront District. 5-9 p.m.

at Archibald Memorial Beach Park.

Saturday warriors get the chance to win a “bag of swag” while scouring the beach for litter. Archibald Memorial Beach Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd. 8-10 a.m.

Geckos on the Street Get those lizard hands in the air, it’s time for Gulfport’s scaliest street festival. GeckoFest will crawl through downtown Gulfport to celebrate the end of summer. This year marks 20 years of local flavor and the City of Gulfport is hosting a fireworks show right over the water. The theme is “Gecko Bandstand,” so don’t forget the costumes – wigs encouraged. Downtown Gulfport, 2900 Beach Blvd. S. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Poet Practice Get your pens – and keyboards – ready. Poets and

writers are welcomed to an online workshop hosted by Keep St. Pete Lit to discuss, critique and analyze poetry. With full utilization of the Zoom share screen, it’s a good chance to get other writers’ eyes on your words. $15 gets you a Zoom link. fb.com/ events/3036603663285854 1-3 p.m. $15 Sunday, September 5 Shop Corey Avenue Yet another fresh-air market to peruse this Sunday funday. Shop more than 60 vendors and brag about all the raw honey, fresh spices, sustainable veggies and local art you stumbled upon. Corey Avenue, 595 Corey Ave. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Tuesday, September 7 An Open Microphone All acts – music, comedy, spoken word – are Things To Do continued on page 30

One Year with the Beach House Beach House 5317 celebrates one year with an official ribbon-cutting. Shop art, talk about the last year and check out what’s new at the house. 5317 Gulfport Blvd. 6 - 8 p.m.

Pop Up and Dance Head to the historic Gulfport Casino on the waterfront for live music and cold drinks.

Local musicians will get you moving, and the bar will be open. September’s band is Hot Tonic Orchestra, fusing jazz with Latin rhythms, funk and soul. Admission benefits the Gulfport Arts Center and the Gulfport Historical Society. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S. 7-10 p.m. $10 Saturday, September 4 Trash Pirates Who said pirates arrr all bad? Set up ship with the MAD Beach Trash Pirates and head out for a monthly community cleanup

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

29

Things To Do continued from page 29

vice, you’ll be in good company.

This connection is every second Wednesday of the month. Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S. 8:30 a.m.

welcome at the Patch’s open mic night. Come perform or watch the action hosted by Dillon Reeder at one of Florida’s oldest artist retreats. All participants will receive a $5 Blueberry Patch voucher.

Bring your own beer as long as it’s before midnight. The Blueberry Patch, 4923 20th Ave. S. $5

Who Are You Looking For? Dinner, drinks and connection – with rainbows. Meet Me Locally is pairing with Punky’s for a “speedy” night of meeting other members of the LGBTQ community. A $10 ticket gets attendees one of three color coordinated wristbands that shows other bar-goers if you are looking for love, business or friends.

Punky’s Bar and Grill, 3063 Central Ave. 6-9 p.m. $10

In the Know in Gulfport Gulfportians stay informed, in-person or virtually, at the Gulfport City Council. This is the best way to stay up to date on happenings in your town.

Masks are highly recommended.

Those who would like to avoid the crowds are welcome to attend and comment via Zoom. mygulfport. us/councilmeetings, Gulfport City Hall, 2401 53rd St S. 6 p.m.

Gab About Books Discover the dark side of Tampa Bay at this month’s Gabber Book Club, in partnership with Tombolo Books. This month’s subject: Tampa Bay Noir. This collection of stories about the local scene will be at Gulfport’s Historic Peninsula Inn and dive into dicey stories by the bay. The Historic Peninsula

Wednesday, September 8 Coffee and Chats for Vets Connect with other veterans over coffee at this Gulfport Senior Center-hosted event. No matter the area of ser-

New Times.

Neighborhood Watch Alert Your community, your crime watch.

The Gulfport Police Department’s Neighborhood Watch Program streams on Facebook every Wednesday, live or prerecorded.

Post your questions under the video and they will be answered the next business day. fb.com/ groups/694674127283494 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 9 To Italy Master Italian for free without downloading any pesky apps. The Italian American Society of St. Petersburg is hosting Italian language classes at the Gulfport Senior Center to kick off a season of romantic language. There will be two class opportunities: 6-7 p.m. and 7-8 p.m. All levels are more than welcome and membership is not required. Ciao! Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S. 6-8 p.m.

> Terms start: August, October, January, March, May

New Beginnings.

Train for the New World.

ARTS & AUDIO/VISUAL AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORTATION BEAUTY BUSINESS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CHILD CARE

Inn 2937 Beach Blvd. S. 7-8:30 p.m.

CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN HEALTH SCIENCE HOSPITALITY MANUFACTURING PUBLIC WORKS

• • • • • • • • •

Career Training Programs & Short Courses Online Classes available High School Dual Enrollment GED, ESOL & Adult Education Earn Industry Licenses, Certificates & College Credit where applicable Transportation Assistance available Career Counseling & Job Placement Services High School Class of 2020 & 2021: Grant Funds available for Tuition, Books & Supplies Most programs completed in one year, or less

+ 40+ 60 Programs Careers Clearwater | 727.538.7167 30

St. Petersburg | 727.893.2500

myptc.edu

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

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

Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

HERE FOR YOU FOR 110 YEARS!

First United Methodist Church of Gulfport

Paradise Lutheran Church

on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

Sundays:

Sunday Service

10am with Holy Communion

727-360-5739

28th Ave. S. & 53rd St.

321-3620

paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist ‘Upscale Resale’

316 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach 727-360-5647 Open five days a week: 10am-2pm Mon. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.

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

GET IN HERE, YA WEIRD-DOUGHS!

United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

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

- Francis David, 1534

uuunited.org

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation Come Celebrate the High Holy Days Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur Sukkot Mon., Sept. 6th - 7pm

LaShana Tovah - may you be inscribed in God’s book for a good year. Receive a free Jewish calendar for attending.

Wed., Sept. 15th - 7pm

Fri., Sept. 24th - 7pm

The Most important day of the year.

Come celebrate this joyous time with us.

FREE, ALL WELCOME

Depressed People of the Bible Seminar

a To-Go Bakery 2901 Beach Blvd. S. Unit 105 • Gulfport, FL

AFriendWhoBakes@gmail.com

Fri., Oct. 1, 7pm. $20 pre-registration, includes book. Call or go to Jewishheritage.net to pre-register.

1701 29th Ave N, St. Pete

727-345-7777

rabbi@jewishheritage.net • JewishHeritage.net • ShalomAdventure.com

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

31

SIROTTA, Milton, 97 of Gulfport, Florida passed away on August 13, 2021. Milton was born in New York City to Hyman and Anna Sirotta. Milton was the youngest of five children and devoted brother to Max, Bea, Ruth and Sol. At the age of 18, Milton proudly enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He fought in the 370th Bomb Squad where he served with his oldest brother in the Pacific Arena with bravery. After the war, Milton attended George Washington University where he received a degree in Mechanical Engineering. While attending school, he supplemented his GI benefits by teaching ballroom dancing.

Throughout his life, Milton loved music and dance. He was a superb dancer who had his daughter dancing on his feet before she could walk. Everyone who danced with Milton could feel his passion and joy. After graduation, Milton continued to serve his country with distinction. He was a highly respected engineer at various military bases and the Pentagon. Milton was a devoted husband. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Ludwig Sirotta in 1995 and second wife Barbara Welch Sirotta in 2009; after taking care of both of them during their long illnesses. Milton is deeply missed by his loving family members and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Phyllis Sirotta Feldman (Michael), grandson Dr. Adam Mark Sirotta Feldman, partner Helenrose Ploughtoff and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Milton will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, loyalty, and his heart of gold. He uplifted friends, family and strangers with his positive attitude. He had a wonderful sense of humor and lit up every room. Milton loved being outside in nature and enjoyed every flower, tree, bird and dolphin. He enjoyed long walks. Milton waved at everyone he saw, whether he knew them or not. He hoped it would add cheer to their day. There is no doubt that Milton made this world a better place and we will miss him forever. To express condolences online visit segalfuneralhome.com.

32

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

Robert “Bob” Lindstrom 81, passed away peacefully on Aug 18, 2021 after a long battle with dementia. He was with loved ones when he passed. Bob was born on April 3, 1940 in Tucson, Arizona to the late Olof and Eleanor Lindstrom. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and teacher. Bob is survived by his twin sister Barbara Eanes; nephew Mark Eanes (Kelly); niece Jennifer Foster (Greg); great-nieces Emily Eanes, Ellie Foster, and Anna Foster; great-nephew Jack Foster; and daughters Robin Blosser and her family of St. Petersburg, Florida and Glennda Nikitopoulos and her family of Houston, Texas. Bob grew up on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. He joined the Army and was stationed in Germany for a several years, then returned to Virginia where he got his undergraduate and master’s degrees at James Madison University. He worked for a time as an IBM salesman and he also was a teacher for 30 years in Pinellas County, Florida. He was responsible for helping to get the Peer Counseling program started in Pinellas County schools, and he taught troubled youth at Pinellas Marine Institute. Bob loved the water and was a PADI Master Diver with a specialist training to be an Aquanaut Instructor. He worked with Jacques Cousteau and the Cousteau Society, taking part in several expeditions on the Calypso. He taught scuba diving in the Florida Keys, the Virgin Islands, and the Bahamas. Bob also loved MG cars, and he raced cars with the Sports Car Club of America and was a member of the British Car Club. Bob had a big heart and bigger soul. He also had a kind word for everyone and would always go out of his way to help anyone that needed help. He loved to dance and had a great sense of humor (lots of Dad jokes). He was a great fisherman and boat captain.

Bob loved everyone, and his hugs made all of your worries go away. The family requests that instead of flowers please make a donation to the Cousteau Society or your local youth organization in his name.

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

33

the gabs What is your favorite part of fall?

Photos by Gabrielle Reeder

Liam Thomas, Salamanca, New York: “Liam’s favorite is pumpkins.”

Bentley James, Salamanca, New York: “Bentley’s favorite is scarecrows.”

Lauren Hunt, Salamanca, New York: “My favorite thing about fall is pumpkin donuts and watching the leaves change.”

Emmalynn Myles, Fort Lauderdale: “When fall comes, we get more cold fronts, so maybe we have an evening temperature that is actually below 70 degrees, or, at the very least, below 75. So we have the cooler weather coming leading into winter.”

5702 GULFPORT BLVD S, SUITE 6

2908-A Beach Boulevard (in the heart of the Village) 727-303-0976 34

(727) 560-3485

INFINITYMASSAGETHERAPY.COM

LMT MA #93920 & LMT MA #93705

un dries

KNEAD SOME RELAXATION?

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 39

Picking Up Speed

sudoku

Solution on page 39

obituary

MICHAEL CHAPMAN

We mourn the loss of our dear Isabella who now belongs to the angels. During her 14 years she served faithfully as a pet therapy dog for Signature Healthcare of Lake Worth, Florida and the JFK Hospice Center founded by Matt Lauer (GMA). The PUP, as she was lovingly known, attended the Delta Certification program for her training. She gladly retired when her master and Chaplain retired in 2012. She is survived by her two daddies, Michael Chapman and Thomas Tomlinson, and a host of friends: Izzie, the late Duke Zeni, Lorenzo Keagan-O’Hara, Tony, brother Alex, nephew Trey and niece Lila Rose. A private interment was held on Thursday, August 25. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

35

CLASSIFIEDS

Accounting

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonprofits. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor.

10+ years experience.

Call/text to 727-248-0714 or email to nspence@clearnumbers.biz

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. able, 25 yrs. Re-hab/Nursing facility exp.

CNA, excellent references, vaccinated, level 2 background check. Call or Text Donna 727-564-0464 Cleaning / Housekeeping AFFORDABLE HOUSEKEEPING Laura Carol Germaine 727-557-4247

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.

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!

Computer Service Caregivers

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area.

Family owned and local business. Providing in home personal aid companion care, after surgery care, 24-hour care, dementia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472 hwcg.com/St-Pete-Beach AHCA #299995153

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

perfectworldllc.com

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience LIVE IN CARE PROVIDER For Senior needing daily assistance. Help with meals, home care, errands, personal hygiene, companionship, help with pets, etc. IN EXCHANGE for room and board. References available Call Deb Rodriguez 727-479-6147.

QUALITY COMPANION FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE Driver, Respite Care (my home or yours), Medical visits, Errands. Depend-

36

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

Electrical AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108 Over 30 years experience. Residential & commercial. New or remodel work, service upgrades, lightning arrestors. Fans and lighting installed. State License #ER0007653

727-687-7999 CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

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

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED EC-13008313

Lawn / Landscape

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 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

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

CLEAN UP YARD - CLEAN OUT HOUSES Tree Work and Yard Work, Big/Small Tree Removal, Hauling, Trim/Rake + Pressure Cleaning, Handyman, Call Sylvester: 727460-8721 or 727-482-9433 Heat / Air Conditioning

Professional Services

LIZ’S WEDDING SERVICES

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). liz@lizsweddingservices.com. 727-350-6115

Help Wanted BREAK INTO THE MUSIC BUSINESS, MUSIC REPS WANTED Talent manager /music publisher is seeking song reps and bookers. You can work at home, make your own hours. Commission-based, make 10% on music placement and 10% on any bookings for my clients. Details on contact. Call Gene @ 727-289-4124

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.

SEMI RETIRED CARPENTER

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

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

“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

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 Home Improvement 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 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!

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

ARTY’S PAINTING INC.

30 years experience. Painting Expert plus Wallpaper hanging and removing. Lic. #C9579. Call Arty 727-900-3459 PINNIX PAINTING INC. Interior, Exterior.

In Business Locally Since 1980. Free Estimates. Commercial, Residential. References Upon Request. Lic. #C4334. 727-6411888. We appreciate your business.

D.C. STRONG

Painting, Pressure Washing, Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work A-Z • Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530 • Insured 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.

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

HELP WANTED In-home caretaker for a mentally challenged LGBTQ Male.

Part-time 3days per week 4hrs per day. Choose your Days and hrs between 8 am and 5 pm, Cash $15 per hr. includes some cleaning, cooking, and bathing supervising. GULFPORT, CALL 813-713-5767 MANUAL MACHINIST WANTED $20.00-$22.00/hour. Dental, Vision, and Health insurance, 401(k). 5–10 years of machinist experience required. Requires experience with drill presses, milling machines, lathes, grinders. Also requires reading, understanding and interpreting complex drawings and specifications. Send resume to dvalloreo@farmermold.com.

Other positions available. Farmermold.com

Automotive 2003 TOYOTA CAMRY XLS Florida vehicle, 74k original miles, Beautiful full carriage top, Leather, all power, ice cold A/C, extra clean. $7250 obo 727-748-9117 General GULFPORT LIONS CLUB Available for parties, weddings, meetings. Great waterfront location with full facilities. Call Jean for info and dates. 727-366-6341.

HELLO LOVES

Do you have a Sacred Space in need of Ceremonial Blessing or Cleansing? I offer this and other healing modalities. Whether it be your home, business, garden or You! All spaces deserve honoring. If interested, please call 704-609-4070. Peace.

37

General THE MOTHER EARTH FIRST PARTY needs fundraising for teddy roosevelt’s 1906 stop 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 positive health radiation 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.

727-906-245

Yard / Garage Sale

GARAGE SALE

Furniture, Electric Bike, Fabric, Dishes and so much more. 6337 10th Ave. S. Saturday, September 4th. 8:00-2:00pm.

ST PETE BEACH COMMUNITY CENTER

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.

RECUMBENT EXERCISE BIKE Stationary NordicTrack Model GX 4.7, great condition, brand new digital program monitor with owner’s manual. Asking $250 obo.

Possibly able to help move it to it’s new home! Please call 727-343-2093 and leave a message.

Looking for Shaklee?

YOUR SOURCE FOR HIGH QUALITY

Vitamin C Vitamin D3 and Zinc

IN BOCA CIEGA BAY SOUTH PASADENA

SEPTEMBER 11TH, 2021

8AM-12PM SPACES AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE FOR $15 IN PERSON OR OVER THE PHONE 7701 BOCA CIEGA DR • ST PETE BEACH (727) 363-9245

727-342-0411 WELLNESSPLANS.NET 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

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

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PLUS: Submerged Land Abutting The HEMINGWAY CONDO’S Seawall- Going 250’ Feet into the Bay.

A BARGAIN AT $100,000

10% Co-Op Commission Accommodations to Share APARTMENT TO SHARE Handicapped Veteran with MS has apartment to share. Own room, Cable, Air, 3 minutes from beach. Non smoker, No drugs, Low alcohol, Pet okay. $250 month. Joe H. 727-678-0166 Real Estate For Sale

Carla Clayton Certified Health Coach

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Call Jim Blinn Luxury and Beach Realty when buying or selling realestate.Selling Gulfport and the tampa bay area properties.I will get you top dollar when selling and the best price when buying.20 years local experience.Ph 813- 294 3395.

THE ISLAND

Health & Fitness

ROCKOUT WHILE YOU WORKOUT

were replaced. The unit boasts all high end materials including marble floors, cherry cabinets, concealed bathroom cabinets, smooth sheetrock and LG stainless steel appliances. Secure lobby and reserved under building parking space. $595,000 Contact Rbuckinghamcondo@gmail.com

8743 95 AVE N 3/2 WITH 1 YR OLD APPLIANCES/HVAC CONTRACT PENDING

Joseph W. Cotton, Broker 727-289-4436

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

VACANT 1.3 ACRE LOT NEAR WESLEY CHAPEL/ZEPHYRHILLS $65,000

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com

Nelda Hamm

3037 Beach Blvd. S. 505 Pasadena Ave. S. COMING SOON - TOWN SHORES BUCKINGHAM Building. Corner unit with 1295 interior sq. ft. plus 300 sq. ft. L shaped balcony with dining area. Two ensuite bedrooms and additional office/den. Watch dolphins and manatees from your balcony and sunrise over St. Pete from your office.

Completely stripped to studs and concrete in 2017 and totally renovated. New mechanicals, hurricane rated sliders and windows even the sheetrock and insulation

theGabber.com

theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

solution

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

GULFPORT

CERTIFIED!!!

NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL! Are you wondering what the value of your home is?

• FREE PROPERTY CONSULTATIONS!!!

• FREE SELLER HOME WARRANTIES IF LISTED!!!

• FREE STAGING WITH PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY & FLOOR PLANS!!!

Marie Drew

mdrew@remax.net

727-657-1259

6641 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | LocalExpertHomes.com theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

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Now accepting Humana, Freedom, Optimum, United, Wellmed, Medicare, and most commercial insurance.

All Florida Family Care, Inc. S. Tirupathi M.D. Primary Care Physician

3301 66th St N, Ste-A, St. Petersburg

727-344-6200

Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 9-5pm

We are always there for YOU! 24 Hour Answering Service with doctor on call 24 hours a day.

We offer same day appointments for all our patients!

Complimentary BEMER/PEMF Treatment, & Meditation Room Physician Supervised Weight Loss Program 2001 Board Certified in Internal Medicine at Michigan State University. Practicing as an Internist in the area since 2003.

Recipient of the 2009 and 2010 People Choice Award for Favorite Physician.

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theGabber.com | September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021