The Gabber: September 14, 2023

Gulfport Soul

By Cameron Healy

As the self-declared official yellow Kia fan page, we went in search of all the details on Gulfport’s favorite car.

On that dark and stormy Wednes-

day morning, a yellow Kia Soul won the hearts of Gulfportians watching on our Gulfport webcam. Across the street from the Gulfport Beach Bazaar, everyone watched as a

storm surge flooded the streets — and one lonesome yellow Kia.

Questions emerged with concern. Who is she? Is the yellow Kia

Kia continued on page 12

After Gulfportians watched Hurricane Idalia flood downtown on The Gabber Newspaper’s webcam, a lonesome yellow Kia Soul caught their eye. Here’s her story.

2908-B Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707

727-321-6965

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Advertising Director

Barry Loper barry@thegabber.com

Creative Director

Joey Neill

Assistant Editor

Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

News & Politics

Patrick Heinzen cityhall@thegabber.com

Beaches

Lisa Leveroni beaches@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com

Reporters

Mike Sunnucks, Crime

Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment

Morgan Banno, Food & Dining

Jon Kile, Columnist

Elana Boses, Features

Ethan Perelstein, Summer Features Intern

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, Madeira Beach, Pinellas Park

Owners

Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper

Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

thegabber.com @gabbernews

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.

Yellow Kia

I wrote this little poem about the beloved yellow Kia and thought I’d share it with you:

Little yellow Kia riding out the hurricane

Everyone was watching you through all the wind and rain. Hoping you’d never falter In all that wind and water, But, you made it through, you sure did persevere.

We’re all so happy that you’re still here.

Reminding quite a few of The Brave Little Toaster and now you even have a fan page.

Brave little yellow Kia you are all the rage! —Lynn Connor

Seaweed

Look at the mess Gulfport maintenance has left on our west side of our beach. I have lived in Town Shores for almost 20 years and have never seen it this bad. The local people jog and walk the point all day long and when they go past that stinky, rotten heap of decaying mess, the stench is unbearable. I’m sure the current Gulfport maintenance manager can alleviate this problem effectively like it was done in the past. —Ron S., Gulfport

The Gabber Newspaper encourages letters (one per person, per month). Include your real name and city, and please keep it short – <250 words. We may edit letters for content, clarity, and length. We don’t print letters that incite violence, include attacks on private citizens, or that intentionally mislead people. Letters may appear online and/or in print. Comments on The Gabber’s website and social media may get printed. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of The Gabber owners, advertisers, or staff. Send letters to news@thegabber.com or 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL, 33707.

Senate Bill 2-A Changes to Florida’s Property Insurance Laws

By Rick Kriseman

We recently breathed a collective sigh of relief as Hurricane Idalia skated by, leaving our area largely unscathed. Still, some area homes suffered storm damage. Lucky to have escaped the worst of a hurricane, these unlucky homeowners are the first to navigate claims under the recent changes to Florida’s property insurance laws.

Senate Bill 2-A, passed during a special session last December, was sold as an effort to combat fraudulent claims and reduce premiums. Instead of signing a law designed to help Floridians, this legislation only serves those who write the campaign checks — the insurance companies.

Since the passage of Senate Bill 2-A, almost no one has seen a decrease in their property insurance rates. In fact, rate increases of 5% to more than 50% are common. The insurance industry cites fraudulent claims and excessive litigation as the justification for SB 2-A. They support the notion that SB 2-A is a panacea for problems that befall the industry. However, insurance companies and lawmakers fail to consider that SB 2-A is unfair to homeowners.

SB 2-A reduces the filing deadline from 2 years to 1, and the time frame in which to file supplementary claims from 3 years to 18 months. People who have lost homes or suffered damage deal with emotional trauma while rebuilding their lives. Time moves quickly when you’re trying to secure temporary housing, replace lost belongings, and determine how to pay for it all.

If you end up having to file a suit against your insurance company for failure to pay your claim, SB 2-A removes your right to compel the insurance company to pay your attorney fees for filing that suit, even if you prevail.

If you’re struggling to understand how this is legal, consider this example:

Your house floods, which severely damages your furniture. You’ve made a timely claim, and produced proof that it will cost $10,000 to purchase new furniture. The insurance carrier either ignores the claim or refuses to pay for the replacement furniture, forcing you to file a suit. You go to trial, and the court rules that the carrier should have paid the claim and awards you $10,000 in damages, the cost to replace your furniture.

But now you must pay your attorney $10,000 in fees. Before SB 2-A became law, the insurance carrier who refused to pay or ignored your claim would be required to pay attorney fees, plus the $10,000 awarded in damages for furniture replacement. Now, under SB 2-A, you are responsible for paying at-

torney fees, and using this example, would be left with nothing to buy replacement furniture.

Will SB 2-A meet its goal of reducing the number of claims and lawsuits filed? Absolutely. Many property owners will miss the deadline to file their claims. If forced to choose between filing a suit and possibly winning, but having no money to replace belongings, they’ll forgo a lawsuit to instead pay to replace their items.

Whether it’s due to the Tocobaga Tribe blessing the land they inhabited in our area in the 900s, or luck, we continue to escape the worst devastation from hurricanes. What we can’t escape is lawmakers’ refusal to prioritize people they serve over corporations that help elect them.

What Floridians should know about Senate Bill 2-A and their property insurance rates during hurricane season.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Coffee, Smoothies, and Cuban Sandwiches A Taste of Annex Coffeehouse in Gulfport

By Cameron Healy

Annex Coffeehouse opened in Gulfport at the beginning of September. The Gabber Newspaper grubbed out on their breakfast and lunch options in the office. Here’s our experience with the new coffee shop.

Reporter Patrick Heinzen and I drove around the building where customers find a large, standing menu. Not long after pulling around back, an employee met us outside to take our order. At the side window, we paid and received our food.

Since this is mainly a drivethrough coffee shop, we took our goodies to the office.

Açai Bowls, Bagels, and Lattes

First, I tamed my caffeine addiction with an iced caramel latte. I enjoy sweet, lattes so caramel was the right choice. They have other flavors such as mocha, lavender, and vanilla.

I also took the healthy route by ordering Annex’s açai bowl. For $8.99, this was a huge smooth -

ie bowl and definitely worth my money. Layered on top of the smoothie were blueberries, cut up strawberries and bananas, and a whole lot of crunchy granola. It was perfect for a warm morning in Florida.

Lastly, I ordered a plain buttered bagel because new bagel

spots are important to me. Don’t forget to add jelly!

Smoothies and Cuban Sandwiches

Patrick decided a smoothie and a Cuban sandwich was the way to go.

He ordered Annex’s “chocolate monkey” smoothie, which consists of dark chocolate, almond milk, bananas, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt. He said it was tasty and all the flavors stuck out.

We heard plenty of good things about Annex’s Cuban sandwiches.

“That is one of the best Cubans I’ve ever had... that was really good,” Patrick said as he swallowed his first bite.

Final Thoughts

This place is for anyone in need of quick, high-quality breakfast or lunch options. Order inside or at the drive-through.

Annex Coffeehouse, 5133 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport. 6 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. info@annex-coffee.com

Look for a full review in a future issue of The Gabber Newspaper.

The Gabber Newspaper office fueled up on Annex Coffeehouse in Gulfport with coffee, smoothies, and Cuban sandwiches.

CAMERON HEALY

Money for Art and History City Council Discusses Gulfport’s Operating Budget

By Patrick Heinzen

As the 2022-23 fiscal year comes to an end, Gulfport City Council puts forward a new operating budget.

At the City Council’s Sept. 5 meeting, councilmembers voted on Ordinance No. 2023-11 to adopt the newly proposed budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Gulfport’s Operating Budget

This year’s budget is set to be $19 million, with 22% of that being in reserve. These funds go towards all sorts of projects. Projects include expanding the City’s website, a $1 million sewer restoration project, and a $1.2 million road improvement plan.

This structured budget provides Gulfport’s full-time and part-time employees, as well as residents, with the day-to-day services they have come to expect.

Developing the operating budget is a relatively routine process. The issue sparked a lengthy discussion at the council meeting.

When the time came for public comment, citizens were ready to share their opinions. The main issue on the table is whether or not to approve the budget. However, citizens expressed concern about what will happen with the money. Specific concerns surfaced about what will happen with the Gulfport Historical Society and Bryer Hall (home to the Gulfport Arts Center, part of Gulfport Arts and Heritage, the DBA for  Gulfport Historical Society; GHS runs both the history museum and the Arts Center).

Gulfportians to the Stand

Gulfport resident Caron Schwartz began with the Gulfport History Mu-

seum. Schwartz discussed the possibility of staffing the history museum. She suggested providing the public with regular hours of operation so visitors and residents alike can visit the museum whenever.

Along with this, Schwartz brought up the importance of using the art center more often. She said it should be reasonably priced for local artists and groups who want to use the space as a community meeting place.

Following Schwartz, Shirley Baldwin took the stand.

Baldwin brought up how Bryer Hall opened nearly two years ago, and has been underutilized (Editor’s note: The Gulfport Arts Center reopened in fall 2022). Baldwin echoed Schwartz by supporting the art center should become a hub for artists and groups to collectively share their talents. This would go

Gulfportians spoke up on what should happen with the money for the City’s operating budget.

ABBY BAKER

hand-in-hand with an educational program inspiring the next generation of artists.

“Fostering tolerance and diversity is important in these times of strife,” said Baldwin. “Bryer Hall is better off in the hands of artists who know how to utilize it.”

Gulfport Historical Society

The President of the Gulfport Historical Society (and the owner of The Gabber Newspaper) Cathy Salustri Loper cleared up misconceptions about the topic at hand.

“It was our understanding that council would be voting on approving the budget, not what to do with it,” said Salustri Loper. “We have paid our lease on both buildings through 2027 and if this fails to pass, the building is not up for grabs. We will have to ratchet back our plans.”

Arts Center

Furthermore, citizens shared their opinions on what should happen with these buildings. Gulfport artists Margo Dalgetty and Jan Lyon-Bennett brought up the importance of reinvigorating the art center. One suggested making it more accessible.

“It is important that whoever runs the art center has the ability to infuse it with programs that foster a more diverse experience for our citizens,” said Dalgetty.

Dalgetty suggested that the arts center should be a vibrant and diverse place.

“As I get older, I want to share what I can do with the younger generations. I want to see the doors open. I want to see colors popping,” said Lyon-Bennett.

Budgeting

Like many Gulfportians, Walter Barker expressed his content with the community interest in the budget issue. Barker focused on the importance of exposing visitors and residents to Gulfport artists, and “getting eyes on the art.”

Barker had suggestions for those in charge of the art center and their

ability to connect with the public.

“It would be good if this person had a component in their description that allowed them to provide resources to people in local colleges and universities for internships and practicums, as well as helping with local art universities and programs,” said Barker.

As the public comment on this budget comes to an end, Karen Love approached the stand. Love showed her appreciation for the community’s interest in the issue.

“I think the residents of Gulfport are saying that if we’re going to put that money in the budget, then everyone should have access to the building instead of the Historical Society having control,” said Love. “Citizens should have a right to have input on how tax money is used.”

Council’s Thoughts

After the public comments, the council shared their opinions.

“I like the idea of making it into a multipurpose space,” said Coun-

cilmember and Vice Mayor Paul Ray (Ward III). “It is confusing, but we’re voting on putting the money in the budget. Not the final outcome.”

On the contrary, Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) expressed concerns with voting on the budget before fully understanding what will be done with the money. Thanos said she hopes that allowing people to utilize the space freely will be able to pay for the staffing of both buildings.

Lastly, Councilmember Christine Brown (Ward II) concluded the meeting with a positive outlook for the future of the arts center.

“I went to the first planning meeting for the arts center, and it was a bunch of great ideas and a bunch of them came out tonight,” said Brown. “Great vibes. Adults, children, and everyone in between. I’m excited about what came out of the meeting and I’m looking forward to it.”

The budget (ordinance 2023-11) passed, with a no from Thanos.

Sand Dunes and Public Safety

St. Pete Beach Commission Extended the State of Emergency

By Lisa Leveroni

Prior to Hurricane Idalia, the dunes were at least 65-75 feet wide, from the street to the beach. Now, they are nearly gone.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia, the St. Pete Beach Board of Commissioners called a special meeting on Sept. 5. The main reason: to be proactive about extreme erosion of the beaches.

Commissioner Chris Graus (District 1), and Commissioner Christopher Marone (District 4) presented, along with Mayor Adrian Petrila. Commissioners Ward Friszolowski (District 3) and Vice Mayor Mark Grill (District 2) were absent.  Three of the five elected officials constitute a quorum, so the meeting proceeded.

What Does It Mean?

The Commission extended the citywide State of Local Emergency (Resolution 2023-14). During a State of Local Emergency, normal procedures get set aside. Specifically, “performing of public work and taking whatever action is necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the community; entering into contracts; incurring obligations; employing permanent and temporary workers; utilizing volunteer workers; renting

of equipment; acquiring and distributing with or without compensation of supplies, materials, and facilities; and appropriating and expending public funds.”

At the next meeting on Sept. 11, the commission will take further steps.

Lucky News for City Buildings

“The City got really lucky with the storm,” said City Manager Alex Rey about Hurricane Idalia.

He explained that after inspection and a “very preliminary” evaluation, City facilities appeared to have no more than $25,000 in damage.

“So, [it’s] really not significant,” explained Rey. “The real significant issue that we have is the impact to Pass-a-Grille in terms of the beach and dunes.”

Losing the Dunes in Pass-a-Grille

The main concern, said Rey, was “losing the dunes and losing the remaining portion of the beach

LISA LEVERONI

that we had.”

Last year, the beach eroded to the point that the Commission was desperate for beach renourishment provided by the Army Corps of Engineers. When the Corps declined to renourish the beaches in Pinellas earlier this year, the Commission hadn’t had time to discuss the next move before Hurricane Idalia hit.

After the hurricane, “it was a nightmare to see the dunes leveled and the walkovers destroyed,” according to Marone.

No Safety on Walkovers

Marone suggested the St. Pete Beach Commission and the Pinellas County Sheriffs close Pass-a-Grille Beach due to the advanced erosion of sand on the beach and beneath the walkovers.

“This is strictly a safety issue,” he said.

Beach-goers can face 4-6 foot drops down to the sand on the beach. In many spots, the drop is as much as 10 feet. In order to preserve the dunes, the Sheriff’s Department watches over the beach and the public’s safety.

Residents Weigh In on Beach Closings

Pass-a-Grille residents Evan and Cathy Cann offered input on closing Pass-a-Grille beach.

“Seeing people walking across the dunes is just awful,” Cathy said.

The couple asked for more communication from the City about what is happening on Pass-a-Grille beach.

Needed: More Sand

Petrila asked Rey to ensure there would be enough sand for sandbags during the rest of hurricane season. Petrila also announced the Army Corps of Engineers meeting about beach renourishment in Indian Shores will take place on Sept. 8.

“With all the people they are going to have there,” said Rey. “They better have answers.”

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD MD

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

ON-SITE BLOOD DRAWS • GENERAL SICK VISITS

CARDIOLOGY SERVICES • FLU SHOTS • PT/INR

B-12 SHOTS • SPORTS PHYSICALS• WELL WOMAN EXAMS

GEL JOINT INJECTIONS • PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA)

WELLNESS SCREENINGS • ELECTROCARDIOGRAMS

WOUND CARE • PHYSICAL THERAPY

NON-SURGICAL FRACTURE MANAGEMENT, ETC.

Meet Leo Briceno

Lifelong Athlete and Coach

By Ethan Perelstein

Every Sunday morning, I wake up before the sun and sit on Spa Beach next to the St. Pete Pier with some 30 other regular and irregular pilgrims to watch the sunrise before we strip down, don goggles and caps, and form a huddle to listen to what Leo has to say.

He’ll let us know the route we’ll

swim out and around the pier, note the water temperature, remind us to stick together, and give his usual water safety briefing before he sends us off into the bay.

Leo Briceno is a lifelong athlete and coach who organizes open-water swims like this for the public. He was born and raised in Venezuela, where

at 13 years old he was given a choice between joining a local gang and spending his days at the local YMCA. By 17, he was the captain of his swim team and a competitive triathlete.

On Aug. 20, after sending us off, Leo stayed on the beach to watch. Our multicolored neon swim caps and buoys on the waves look like a

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEO BRICENO

spilled box of candy migrating east. He hasn’t swam in three years.

Last Wednesday was the third anniversary of the day Leo and his mother were driving to work when another driver hit them head-on. The collision took the lives of Leo’s mother and the other driver and put Leo in the ICU.

After surgery and three weeks in the hospital for a broken leg, hip, and arm, Leo had to learn how to walk again.

“It’s frustrating,” he said. “I was a breaststroker, but I can’t do breaststroke anymore because of my hip.”

One week after the crash, Leo learned that he was going to be a father.

“I didn’t have time to feel sorry for myself,” he said. “I’m in pain every day. I try to stay positive, other people have it worse than me.”

can get inspired. Just by me moving around, it might inspire others.”

Humans are not well-designed to swim. Yet we swim for food, we swim for fun, we swim to survive. It takes great courage to let go of the ground below you and move yourself through a medium 800 times denser than air with nothing fixed to hold on to and air to breathe only if you know how to find it.

Open Water Swimming

Leo knows this. For his first swim lessons in Venezuela at 11 years old, he was thrown into the deep end of the pool and expected to learn through instinct. He almost drowned. As a coach, he does everything he can to make his athletes as comfortable as he can so they can swim without fear.

He’s never had any safety incidents at his swims. He credits this record to preventative measures: safety briefing, kayak support, alternate routes. Everyone swims at their own risk, but also at their own level.

Not sure you can make it the whole way on the swim? Leo will make sure someone is with you for a shorter route. Afraid to put your head under? He’ll start you in shallow water. Never been in before? Breathing exercises on dry land.

The St. Pete Pier Open Water Swim Facebook group has 1,500 members. Most swims have around 30 people. Leo is always trying to grow the event through social media.

Leo built his career as a coach teaching people with disabilities how to swim. Now, he gets to take that journey on his own. Only in the past three months has he been able to sleep in a bed instead of upright on the couch. He started leaving his cane at home a few weeks ago. He walked across the St. Pete Pier to watch us swim and cheer us on.

“Today, I walked around the Pier; it felt like a 10k,” he said after the swim. “I was sweating so much. I still have pain, but you never know who

“Open water can be intimidating. Swimming is one of the most intimidating sports,” Leo said.

“I want to encourage people to swim because it creates a series of other great behaviors. It instills confidence,” he said. “I believe all of us are heroes. We give examples to someone, a son, a daughter, a nephew, a niece, a stranger, that’s being a hero.”

Coach Leo Briceno

Kia continued from cover

OK? Does it have damage? Whose car is this? Does she have a name? Why was it left all by its lonesome?

Gulfport Has Soul

Her name is Sunny.

“That’s about as close to a name as she has. I often refer to her as ‘my little yellow car,’” said owner Ron Hayward, aka Captain Ron.

Hayward received the yellow cube car as a gift from his son Ronnie Hayward about eight months ago.

Every B R I L L I A N T Thing

“It’s a great little car,” Hayward said. “To me it has a sunny disposition. So it’s the right color.”

Our Brave Yellow (Kia) Submarine

On Aug. 29, Hayward recalls moving seven boats with his group, Opiate Awareness Institute (OAI), to prepare for the storm the next day. As someone who lives in the local marina on a boat, he tends to leave his yellow Kia in the shade across from Gulfport Beach Bazaar.

By the time Hayward and colleagues finished moving the boats that evening, the winds had already picked up. He said he knew his car was a little bit up the street. But he didn’t imagine the storm surge would reach that far up the block.

And just like that, we all watched from behind our screens as the water flooded Shore and Beach Boulevards — along with this yellow Kia.

For those wondering about her physical well being, Hayward took Sunny to the carwash the day after the hurricane.

Sunny got the spa day she desperately deserved. Hayward said water made its way into the car, reaching the bottom half of the seats.

Yellow Kia Fandom

“I have a couple of friends that are big on social media, not myself. But, they started seeing things all over social media,” Hayward said. “There’s even a girl who does T-shirts and stickers with my car on it and I bought a couple.”

Redbubble user maudelawless created Gulfport Has Soul merch for the box-shaped vehicle. Invest in a sticker, clothes, and bags with Sunny on the front.

You may even find photos of the car on  The Gabber Newspaper’s  social media pages as well as Gulfport-related Facebook groups.

“But ‘Soul of Gulfport’ will be on her back window within a couple weeks... I’m ordering a vinyl graphic,” Hayward said.

Keep your eye out for Sunny’s new tail art the next time you’re around town.

directed by Anthony Gervais

by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe featuring Dylan Barlowe

Get your yellow Kia merch on Redbubble.

MAUDELAWLESS

Change is in the Wind Updates in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach

By Lisa Leveroni

Here’s some Pinellas beaches updates. St. Pete Beach made changes regarding municipal constructions, lease renewals, and SunRunner fares. Treasure Island is the first among the beaches to carry the smoking and vaping ban to public beaches and parks. Madeira Beach continues to interview for the position of city attorney.

St. Pete Beach

On St. Pete Beach, change is in the wind. At the Aug. 22 city commission meeting, the Commission voted to allow easements for construction and lease renewals. This represented everything from residential driveways to a new multi-unit (8-11 rooms) hotel in the Upham Beach area. It also includes landscaping in Districts III and IV, and seawall reconstruction in Pass-a-Grille.

The commissioners discussed a rental renewal agreement with the two locations of the Paradise Grille. Paradise Grille is on Pass-a-Grille Beach and also on Upham Beach. The lease renewal is rescheduled for a few weeks from now. Public input is welcome.

The Board of Commissioners also discussed replacing the playground at Horan Park. The completion of

the playground is scheduled for six months, ending in March 2024.

In the absence of Commissioner Ward Friszolowski, the Commission voted on these issues with approval as a 4-0 or a 3-1 vote. Mayor Adrian Petrila was the only commissioner to vote no on some of these development issues.

Year-round St. Pete Beach residents expressed their hope that Sheriff Bob Gualtieri would support their desire for PSTA to charge a fare on the SunRunner bus line.

Treasure Island

Treasure Island was the first of the South Pinellas County cities to vote in favor of a smoking and vaping ban on the beaches. The Treasure Island City Commission passed Ordinance 2023-10 unanimously. While Pinellas County already has a smoking and vaping ban in place

for county parks and beaches like Seminole Lake Park and Shell Island, Treasure Island is the first city in Pinellas County to carry the ban to public beaches and parks.

Resident Carrie Auerbach held a beach cleanup on Labor Day. She also donated 25 cigarette receptacles from Keep Pinellas Beautiful for city use in support of the smoking ban on public beaches and parks.

Mayor Tyler Payne indicated that the Florida League of Cities was “extremely pleased” that Treasure Island joined with other cities to ban cigarettes and vaping on public beaches and parks.

“It’s happening all around the state,” Payne said.

Madeira Beach

Madeira Beach is in the process of interviewing for the position of City Attorney. The first two interviews took place on Aug. 23 at the Board of Commissioners regular workshop meeting.

Interim City Attorney Thomas Trask of Trask Daigneault, LLP and candidate Sarah Johnston of Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, PL were both present for questions.

With five supporting attorneys from Trask Daigneault in attendance, Trask answered interview questions from the Madeira Beach Commission.

While Johnston does not have the same depth of experience as attorney Trask, she also fielded questions from the BOC.

The interview process and review will continue at the next commission meeting on Sept. 13.

Lisa Pence

Stay in the loop with the Pinellas Beaches.

LISA LEVERONI

Monkey Business Overheard at Gulfport Council’s Sept. 5 Meeting

By Patrick Heinzen

This is a sample of things overhead at the Sept. 5 Gulfport Council meeting:

“After I read The Gabber [Newspaper], I had to come see what was going on. This City Council $#!% show with big personalities and power plays.” —Unknown person in the audience, prior to the meeting start.

“You managed to save us a dollar, and I’m going to give that dollar to you.” —Richard Fried, on the minimal savings in relation to water issues.

“I probably wouldn’t commission you for a piece of art.” —Scott Linde addressing Councilmember Christine Brown (Ward II)

“I’ve written all of you letters. I’ve gotten no response which is… awful.” —Karen Love, addressing Council. Later,

Councilmember Brown remarked to The Gabber Newspaper that she didn’t recall receiving said emails, but would check.

“We’re a group of people who like to roll up our sleeves and play in the dirt. That’s how things happen here.” — Kelli Garcia, when discussing volunteers with the Gulfport Food Forest.

“Anyone else for new business? Monkey business? We love that.” —The closing moments of the meeting between Mayor Samuel Henderson and Councilmember Ian O’Hara (Ward IV)

“I just wanted to say that Gulfport is going to get lei’d! Come on down and get lei’d” —Councilmember Christine Brown, when talking about Gulfport Lion Club’s Lei festival.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Aphasia Advocacy St. Pete Group Provides Aphasia Training to Indian Shores Police

By Mike Sunnucks

The Indian Shores Police Department, along with the beach town’s vice mayor, received training last month related to people dealing with aphasia.

Voices for Hope for Aphasia, a St. Petersburg-based nonprofit, conducted the two aphasia training sessions with the Indian Shores Police.

Aphasia is a brain disorder hindering speech and communication skills such as reading and writing. Evidently, it affects people who have suffered strokes or brain injuries.

“The first training was conducted on Aug. 2 by Debbie Yones, executive director of Voices of Hope for Aphasia,” said Lauren Hoadley, program coordinator with Voices for Hope.

Hoadley said two people with aphasia, Tim Burns and Trish Hambridge, helped with the training and answered questions.

On Aug. 23, the second training involved speech-language pathologists from Voices for Hope. Burns and Hambridge returned to answer questions for this session, too.

Indian Shores Vice Mayor Diantha Schear and her husband Larry Schear attended that session as well.

Aphasia Numbers

As many as 8,336 people in Pinellas County suffer from aphasia. Additionally, around 175,916 people in Florida suffer from aphasia because of strokes, according to 2019 estimates. There are as many as 2.5 million people with strokes that deal with aphasia.

Hoadley said these numbers do not include individuals with aphasia due to brain injuries, brain tumor, or other neurological problems beyond strokes.

The St. Pete group hopes to bring education efforts to other public safety agencies.

“We hope to be able to provide this training to police departments, paramedics, and fire departments around Pinellas County,” said Hoadley. “In the past, we have provided similar training to St. Pete city employees.”

Furthermore, Hoadley explained that Yones is also a member of CAPI (Committee to Advocate for Persons with Impairments). CAPI is a committee based in St. Pete providing advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities.

Building Bridges

Hoadley said the education and outreach efforts aim to build awareness about aphasia. This includes misperceptions about those struggling to speak and communicate

“There are several misperceptions of aphasia, but the most common ones are that people with aphasia

are psychologically ill, intellectually challenged, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” Hoadley said.

“The overall goal of our training was to prepare the police department for encounters with people with aphasia. We wanted them to be able to recognize the signs and types of aphasia, learn how to communicate with a person with aphasia, and increase their overall awareness so they can look for aphasia instead of assuming a person may be under the influence. We also wanted to get the police department’s feedback for how we can help prepare our members for emergency situations,” Hoadley said.

The Indian Shore Police Department held two aphasia training sessions with Voices for Hope for Aphasia in August.

TOWN OF INDIAN SHORES

Azucar, Murals, and Property Education Stay Up-to-Date with Pinellas Businesses

By The Gabber Staff

Property Webinars

Do you want to learn more about real estate? The Pinellas County Property Appraiser’s Office (PCPAO) has you covered. At noon on Sept. 21, the office will hold one of its virtual educational sessions.

Virtual sessions center around topics such as valuing properties, property tax law, exemptions, and trends in real estate. The PCPAO gathers all the information while experts in real estate teach it to you.

The first of the speakers registered to present is PCPAO Communications Manager Kyle Holton. Pinellas Coun-

ty Property Appraiser Mike Twitty will also speak at the virtual sessions. During the meeting, attendees can ask these speakers questions.

Each virtual session is an hour long, and specifically focuses on the new PCPAO website. The meeting is set to give people a walkthrough of the new site, show people where to find specific resources, and offer them a better understanding of the real estate process as a whole.

On July 20, the office held a similar session. But, this upcoming virtual session is meant more for the consumer rather than the professional. This doesn’t mean professionals will

be shunned since all are welcome to attend.

The PCPAO also looks for feedback on how to better themselves while teaching others more information. For convenience, the virtual sessions will be recorded. Find videos on the PCPAO’s YouTube channel.

Register on their website. Once completed, attendees will receive an email with the link to the virtual sessions.

South Pasadena Murals

Creative Pinellas announced the three selected artists to participate in their South Pasadena mural project. The selected artists are Ashley Cassens, Illsol Studio, and Brian McAllister.

Cassens’ mural will grace the wall at Florida Orange Groves Winery (1500 Pasadena Ave. S.). McAllister will be at Pasadena Liquor and Fine Wines (1100 Pasadena Ave. S.). And artists from Illsol Studio will work on a mural at Leverocks (840 Pasadena Ave. S.).

“It was exciting to see the response from the artist community,” said Mayor Arthur Penny. “There are some very creative individuals in our area and to have so many participate in our call for artists was really inspiring. I can’t wait to see what the chosen artists come up with for their walls.”

The City of South Pasadena and Creative Pinellas partnered to bring three vibrant and impactful murals to the community.

This first round of artists will work on their murals at the designated locations from now until November.

“It was important to us that the artists chosen for each site understand and embrace the unique character of their mural location and of the city itself,” said City Administrator Carley Lewis. “There was a lot of talent to choose from and I think the community is going to be pleased with the selections that were made.”

Artists have until November to finish their South Pasadena murals.

CAMERON HEALY

Azucar Cuban Cafe

Azucar Cuban Cafe opened Aug. 21 and it is going strong. Located just off the Treasure Island Causeway on Central Avenue, Azucar features authentic Cuban specialties.

This is a great place to stop for classic dishes like black bean soup with the perfect empanadas. Of course, they specialize in Cuban sandwiches, but they also feature a breakfast empanada for $4.99.

Azucar makes a Meal-of-the-Day, which includes white or yellow rice, chicken or pork, and fried Yucca or plantains. Don’t forget desserts like tres leches and flan.

You can order online or stop in from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.

7224 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-202-0199, azucarkitchen.com

The Hippie Shack

The Hippie Shack is a new place at Blind Pass Marina. Located where the original Sea Hags was, the Hip-

pie Shack wants to be known as “an eatin’, drinkin’, dancin’ kind of joint.”

They are currently hiring both staff and entertainment. The establishment’s goal is to become a place that locals like to hang out. Aside from the ‘60s references, it is unclear about the type of food The Hippie Shack will serve. This is one of those mysteries that is worth investigation. It’s “a groovy kind of scene opening soon.”

9555 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach. hippieshackstpete.com

Here’s a plate of roast pork with white rice, black beans, and yucca to try at Azucar Cuban Cafe.

AZUCAR CUBAN CAFE

according to gulfport

Global Warming, Cleanups, and Vodka Crans Random Quotes from Gulfportians

By Chris Shablak

Global warming’s a bitch, ain’t it?.

“We clean up well.” —Jerri-Anne Smithe, about Gulfport’s post-hurricane look

“It’s great 2 a.m. junk food.” —Sydney Prescott, about vegan food

“Sometimes the best deal you make is the deal you don’t make.” —Life advice from Rick Rager

“It’s pink.” —Devin K., bartender at Chris’s Beachside Bar talking about the advantages of cranberry vodka

—Mike Hannigan, about the crazy hurricane season

Hope for Ukraine

Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Brings Hope

By Amanda Hagood

For a year and a half, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has saturated U.S. airwaves with images of death, destruction, and despair. Now, the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus (KSOC), backed by a Florida-based nonprofit, is out to strike a different note on its monthlong “Hope for Ukraine” tour.

An Explosion of Light

It’s hard to imagine a more enduring expression of joy and faith than the “Hallelujah Chorus” of Handel’s Messiah . And yet, for decades, its exuberant tones — and any other religious music — fell silent behind the ideological walls of the Iron Curtain. When Roger McMurrin, a church music director from Orlando, was invited to Kiev in 1991 to direct local musicians in Messiah’s first performance in 70 years, he was profoundly moved by the experience. For the Ukranian musicians, he later recalled, the new music was like “an explosion of light.”

McMurrin and his wife Diane would later found Music Mission Kiev, a music-based ministry powered by the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus (which McMurrin also founded). The KSOC now regularly performs in Ukraine, Canada, and the United States. Its “Hope for Ukraine” tour, running from mid-September to mid-October, will bring the group to 13 church venues from Florida to Ohio. Performances will raise money for humanitarian aid — and hope for the restoration of peace — for Ukraine.

A Unique Repertoire

The KSOC will perform at the First Presbyterian Church of St. Petersburg on Sunday, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. FPC’s Director of Traditional Worship Music and the Arts

Matthew Clear said the concert

features sacred choral classics as well as traditional Ukrainian music. The repertoire, he notes, features solely female voices, as none of the group’s male performers may leave their country under current wartime restrictions.

There is no admission fee for the concert, though the Church will collect a freewill offering during the performance. Each host church, Clear explains, commits to raising $20,000 in donations in order to host the KSOC. First Presbyterian, together with other organizations in the Tampa Bay Area, has already met and exceeded this goal with a collection of $23,000.

A Warm Welcome

The experience of organizing the performance, says Clear, has been like nothing else in his career. Community members have come

together to provide financial support, housing, and transportation for the 30 KSOC performers. Hosts will treat the group to a tour of the James Museum. They will also visit Pinellas County Center for the Arts at Gibbs High School, where they will sing with and to Clear’s choral students. And, of course, there will be a trip to the beach.

Most of all, Clear hopes the performance will inspire a sense of connection between the audience and the performers, some of whom have not been able to return to their homes for years due to the ongoing conflict.

“This concert truly puts a face on what is happening in the news,” he says. “It’s a whole other level of humanity.”

First Presbyterian Church of St. Petersburg, 701 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. fpcstpete.com. 727-822-2031.

St. Petersburg’s First Presbyterian Church will be one of 13 stops on the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus’s “Hope for Ukraine” tour this month.

KYIV SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS

Not Your Average Cirque Worth the Drive: This Cirque du Soleil’s an Homage to the Art of Animation

By Cathy Salustri Loper

The popcorn is green, but tastes exactly like its yellow counterparts. The concession serves wine in branded stemless cups, complete with a sippy cup-style lid. A pillow takes the stage, and gets the audience to clap in rhythm.

There’s a lot about a Cirque du Soleil show that differs dramatically from, well, pretty much everything else at Disney Springs. This iteration of Cirque caught my eye because one of its performers has a Tampa Bay connection.

Drawn to Life not only differs from everything else at Disney Springs, it’s also a departure from most other Cirque shows. While every Cirque show has astounding aerialists and amazing costumes showcasing the artistic part of circus, Drawn to Life  has, perhaps, the clearest and most compelling narrative to date.

Disney fans will love the show because it is, as the marketing promises, a love letter to Disney animation.

Non-Disney fans who appreciate Cirque will love it, too, because Drawn to Life offers the traditional Cirque du Soleil performances.

What About Non-Cirque du Soleil Fans?

If you’ve been to Cirque du Soleil before and walked out appreciating the show but wondering what, exactly, the storyline was , Drawn to Life is the Cirque for you. At the top of the show, a young woman walks onstage and curls into a chair. We see her read a letter, and we hear the words of her recently deceased father, asking her to finish his animation.

Those simple spoken sentences take up not even a minute in the show, but they allow audiences to understand everything that happens as the young woman struggles to finish the animation — and process her own grief.

Drawn to Life partnered with Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt

Disney Animation Studios to bring the 50th Cirque du Soleil to the stage, and this creating a striking demarcation between Drawn and all other Cirque shows. While the performers are all Cirque, the scenery contains scenes from animated Disney shorts and films, and eagle-eyed fans will see images of Walt’s Nine Old Men. Rather than a tribute to the films themselves, this show pays homage to the artistic process and the talent that made the studio a giant in the animation world.

Another standout scene includes the Ink and Paint girls, working around an animator’s desk — a reminder that in less-enlightened (and not so long ago) times, woman couldn’t work as animators, only as ink and paint girls, tasked with coloring a man’s art. The homage to these women is clear, and it’s

not lost on this writer that Cirque du Soleil created a daughter, not a son, to carry out the father’s legacy.

While the tribute to Disney’s animation legacy makes this show a standout for reasons the typical Cirque fan might not expect, any artist will appreciate the throughline tying the show together: the artist’s struggle. Drawn to Life presents this so beautifully it indeed makes the show worth the drive.

See Drawn to Life

Disney Springs, 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista. Tues.-Sat., 5:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 p.m. & 4 p.m. $59, seat categories 1-4, through Sept. 23; $85, all seat categories, ongoing. cirquedusoleil. com, 877-773-6470.

Drawn to Life, the current Cirque du Soleil show at Disney Springs, pays tribute to Disney Animation. Here’s why it’s worth the drive to see.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Slays the Spices

Indian Bistro on St. Pete Beach

By Morgan Banno

Few things in this life make my heart flutter and my tastebuds flare like Indian food. Warm spices, creamy curries, and tandoori flavor are the holy trinity in my worship of Indian cuisine. I have an eating strategy when I approach Indian food: I forego the naan bread to make more space in my stomach and I always ask for a bowl and spoon. Why? Because I can literally shovel more (curry, channa masala, biriyani) into my face than I can by eating with a fork off a plate. Work smarter, not harder, right?! Lucky for fans like me, Indian Bistro opened a new location in St. Pete Beach that I couldn’t wait to try.

Exploring India has always been on my culinary bucket list, if nothing more than an excuse to eat my way around the country, sampling regional specialties and absorbing the beautiful culture. So when this longtime, Clearwater favorite opened their second outpost just minutes from Gulfport, I was ecstatic.

Splurge

I won’t sugar coat it: Indian Bistro is a bit of a splurge (financially and gastronomically) but it’s so worth it. With a menu mix of both vegan and non-vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Carnivorous cravings? Try the goat biryani ($19.99), tandoori chicken platter ($19.99), or the lamb korma ($20.99). Prefer meatless eats? Get the dal tadka ($16.99), yellow lentils cooked with garlic, cumin and coriander leaves;  matar aloo ($16.99), cheese and green peas slow cooked in a light curry; or the aloo gobi ($16.99), cauliflower and potato in turmeric and traditional spices. Regardless of what you order, I guarantee it’ll be delicious.

Aromatic Specialities

Indian cuisine is littered with aromatics and warm spice profiles. Simple combinations of garam masala, fenugreek, cumin, and cardamom (and more) along with fresh herbs make for dynamic dishes. Paneer tikka masala is my alltime favorite Indian dish. It’s rooted in Northern India and consists of grilled paneer (Indian cheese) served in a tomato-based curry with ginger, garlic, onions and bell pepper. It’s creamy, squeaky, and Indian Bistro’s paneer tikka masala ($18.99) was dynamite.

Their veggie samosas, two for $6.99 and served with mint chutney and tamarind sauce were crispy and stuffed completely full. I also noshed on the Punjabi channa masala ($16.99), chickpeas simmered in

onion and tomato sauce. But I have to give Indian Bistro a high five for their chicken tikka platter ($19.99). Massive chunks of boneless chicken breast are marinated in yogurt and spices, and grilled to perfection with onions, bell peppers, chilies, and lime. Superb.

Indian Bistro is located in the Dolphin Village shopping plaza, so there’s plenty of parking. However, there are only five tables inside, so dining space is limited — but their takeout is top notch. Everything I ordered was hot, fresh, and prepared as ordered. If you love full-bodied food and are up for a culinary adventure, Indian Bistro is waiting for you.

4785 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Sun.-Mon., 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 727954-7355.

Indian Bistro is an instant favorite.

MORGAN BANNO

the gabs

Where Do You Spend Most of Your Day?

Photos by Cameron Healy

Courtney Jackson, Gulfport: “Work or the beach.”

Ainsley Morman, St. Pete: “Work or the beach.”

Paul Milakovich, St. Pete: “In my apartment.”

David Dilley, St. Pete: “Work.”

Valerie

decided to take The Gabber Newspaper across the pond to Monaco.

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

Jimmy and

Marquez

things to do

Benefit Concert, Book Launch, and Brunch

Thursday, Sept. 14Sunday, Sept. 17

St. Pete Theater Enjoy the Off-Central Players’ newest production of Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan Macmillan. This one-act, life-affirming play pulls back the curtain on the experiences of the child of a suicidal mother. Purchase your tickets online.  Studio Grand Central, 2260 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. 727-202-7019, theoffcentral.com

Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art Wildlife images from the National Museum of Wildlife Art explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The James Museum, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10-23. thejamesmuseum.org; 727-892-4200.

Thursday, Sept. 14

Fried Fish for Freedom  Support our country’s veterans at the Fish Fry for Freedom Fundraiser. Mow down on freshly fried fish with crispy fries and cole slaw. Enjoy delicious food, drink specials, live music, raffles, and family-friendly activities. All proceeds go to Honor Flight West Central Florida and The Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch. Buy your tickets online or in person.  Holiday Isles Elks #1912, 14111 E. Parsley Dr., Madeira Beach. 5-9 p.m. $20-25. 727-360-4121, timbchamber.org

Community Concert Sit back and relax with a Thursday night concert with your friends and family. Enjoy tunes from the South Pasadena Community Band as they perform a program acknowledging Patriot Day and Rosh Hashanah. Donations appreciated. South Pasadena City Hall, 7047 Sunset Dr. S., South Pasadena. 7:30 p.m. 727-337-0442, southpasadenaband.com

Friday, Sept. 15

Oh, Tea and Crumpets! Enjoy a little Friday afternoon tea with friends. Drink tasty tea, scrumptious finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and sweet treats. There are plenty of gluten-free options, too. Spice up the afternoon with sparkling wine spritz or a mocktail spritz. Buy tickets online. The Chelsea, 2462 5th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 3:30 p.m. $16-32. 727200-6083, thechelseastpete.com

Outdoor Concert Enjoy an outdoor concert at a beautiful waterfront botanical garden. Listen to music from Gypsy Star Band. This band performs an enchanting show with a mix of pop, rock, folk, and jazz music. Buy the optional homemade dinner of one entree, a salad, fruit, and a brownie before the show. Reserve your spot online. Sacred Lands Preservation, 1700 Park St. N., St. Petersburg. 6:30 p.m. 727-3470354, sacredlandspreservation.org

Saturday, Sept. 16Sunday, Sept. 17

Nautical Flea Market Get new or used nautical items at the second

annual Nautical Flea Market. Find yourself all types of boating equipment, fishing and scuba gear, nautical antiques, beach art and decor, jewelry, motors, and even anchors. Some dealers will be on site selling new and used boats, motors, trailers and jet-skis.  R.O.C. Park, 200 Rex Place, Madeira Beach. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 727-391-9951, madeirabeachfl. gov

Saturday, Sept. 16

Third Saturdays Exploration  Head out to Third Saturdays at Pinewood. Explore art exhibitions, self-guided scavenger hunts, and curated family fun. This three-inone experience includes activities from Creative Pinellas, the Florida Botanical Gardens, and Heritage Village.  Creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. 727-582-2172, creativepinellas.org

The Writing Life Join a group of fellow writers to meet, take time to write, and reflect on your process. The group is open to all 18+, though its focus is the writing lives of LGBTQ+ people. Sponsored by the LGBTQ Resource Center.  Gulf-

The women of Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus host a Ukrainian benefit concert Sept. 17.

KYIV SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS

port Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 727-8931074, mygulfport.us

Paradise Is Deadly is an anthology of gripping tales produced by the Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime. Check out the book launch party where authors will be on hand to sign books. Refreshments will be served. Books at Park Place, 6800 Gulfport Blvd. S., Suite 113, South Pasadena. 2-4 p.m. flgcsinc.com

Sunday, Sept. 17

Gospel Brunch Fundraiser Dinner and a show? More like brunch and a show. Spend your Sunday morning at the third annual Gospel Brunch. Enjoy live gospel music as you eat yummy food. Donations encouraged. The Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 727-895-6620, thestudioat620.org

Sunday Market  Spend your afternoon shopping at the St. Pete Sunday Market. This market hosts some of the coolest small businesses selling secondhand items, handcrafted pieces, baked goods, and art. Enjoy live music while you shop and watch live painting from Tampa Bay artists creating cool art.  Arts XChange, 515 22nd St. S.,

St. Petersburg. 12-6 p.m. 727-7102727, stpeteissupercool.com

Ukrainian Benefit Concert The women of Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus hosts a Ukrainian benefit concert. This group tours and performs Ukrainian music to raise funds for their humanitarian relief mission to widows, orphans, and war victims. Help those in need by attending this special concert . First Presbyterian Church, 701 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. 4 p.m. 727-822-2031, musicmissionkiev.org

Monday, Sept. 18

History Harvest Learn about your ancestors and your family’s past with USF St. Petersburg students. USF’s History Harvest invites you to bring letters, photographs, records, and objects. Students majoring in history will help you find the significance of your materials. Email Erin Mauldin at emauldin@usf.edu with any questions. Nelson Poynter Memorial Library, 140 7th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 5 p.m. 727-873-4405, stpetersburg.usf.edu

Tuesday, Sept. 19

Art & Food Enjoy a special evening of art and food tastings inspired by watercolor drawings by Chef Chuck Ban-

del. First, you walk through the special exhibition Where Ideas Come From: Dalí’s Drawings. After, indulge in a selection of delicious bites accompanied by the chef’s drawings. House white or red wine will be served. Buy your tickets online. The Dalí Museum’s Raymond James Community Room, 1 Dalí Blvd., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. $6070. 727-823-3767, thedali.org

Wednesday, Sept. 20

Bluey’s Wackadoo Bash  Are you a fan of Bluey and the Heeler family? Join in on all the Bluey fun with family-friendly crafts, activities, and snacks inspired by the dogs from down under. Drop by and stay awhile with your little ones for Bluey’s Wackadoo Bash.  St. Pete Beach Library, 365 73rd Ave., St Pete Beach. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 727-3639238, spblibrary.com

Underground History St. Pete’s African American Heritage Association and Tombolo Books host a screening of Underground History , a new documentary film project designed to explore connections between St. Petersburg’s diverse cultural history and emerging community efforts to acknowledge that past in charting the future. Tombolo Books, 2153 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. 727-7559456, tombolobooks.com

IF EVERY HEAD OF STATE WERE A WOMAN WOULD THERE BE A. MORE WARS

B. THE SAME NUMBER OF WARS

C. FEWER WARS

THOUGHT EXPERIMENT EMPOWERED WOMEN OUR ONLY HOPE

worship

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

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com

JewishHeritage.net

Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church

2728 53rd St. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 (Entrance on 28th Ave.)

Where ALL are welcome at the Lord’s table. Come and See...

Sunday Mass 9:30am

www.goodshepherdocc.net

727-403-7178

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION

330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach

Reverend Omar Reyes

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist

Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

“St. Alban's is an inviting faith community striving to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So, no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.”

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

Hours 10 AM to 2PM

Wednesday to Saturday

Italian Fundraiser Dinner at Paradise Lutheran Church Sep 22, 5-8pm

Special worship rates starting as low as $30/week.

Send an email to: advertising@thegabber.com

Affiliated with St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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

Sunday Services 10AM

Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

obituaries

Michael Richardson

Michael Richardson, 59, of St. Petersburg, passed away on Aug. 21, 2023 with his loving girlfriend, Kelli LaPuma and his sister, Jennifer Kim Silva by his side. Michael fought a brave 6-month battle with glioblastoma brain cancer. He is preceded in death by his father, John, mother, Jacoba, and brothers, Gary and Nicholas.

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Mike, as everyone called him, and his family sailed their sailboat from Cape Town to Ft. Lauderdale in the mid 1980’s with stops in South America and the Caribbean. Mike grew up on sailboats and loved racing at the local yacht clubs around Tampa Bay where he had many friends. Mike’s love for dogs was his long time passion and he created a senior dog rescue called Grey Muzzle Rescue Sanctuary that was just

RSVP: 727-360-5739

More info @ Paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

beginning to get off the ground. A celebration of life will take place in the coming weeks.

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Electrical

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

Accounting

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING

Virtual bookkeeping for small businesses and nonpro ts. Monthly packages customized to your needs or one time cleanups. Payroll available. QuickBooks Online Certi ed ProAdvisor. 10+ years experience.

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

Caregivers

QUALITY COMPANION CAREGIVER AVAILABLE

For you or your loved one. 32-year Gulfport resident, dependable, excellent driving record, Level 2 background check. Call or text Donna: 727-564-0464.

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Providing in-home health care services to the greater St Petersburg Area. Personal, companion, complex care, post-surgery, respite care, and more. Family and veteran owned local business. Accepting private pay, VA, and Long-term health insurance. Licensed, insured, and bonded; all employees are W2. Free consultation: 727914-7472. Hwcg.com/St-Pete-Beach.com. AHCA #2999995153.

HANDS N HEART IN HOME CARE LLC

If you or your loved one is looking for care, I can provide the best compassionate care you need, in the home of your comfort. Meal prep, feeding, bed/bath/shower, meds reminder, light housekeeping, short errands, etc. Call 727-481-4722 or 727-6232410. www.handsandheart.com

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

Handy Person

HANDYMAN SERVICES Electrical: ceiling fans, lighting, switches, outlets, and other devices. Plumbing: faucets, valves, and other fixtures. Door locks and cabinet hardware. Flips to problem solving and rental punch lists. References upon request. David: 727-851-7548.

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP XERISCAPING/ PLANTS/MULCH

Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, lawn maintanence, leaves removed, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Electrical consults available. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Locally St. Pete /Gulfport: 407-244-6045. James: 407-244-6045.

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

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTER OR REFINISHING OF FURNITURE Great deals on all painting jobs, very clean work. Cabinets, furniture, interior or exterior paint jobs. Free estimates; call 727-320-6420.

Home Improvement

THE TRASH QUEEN: OVERWHELMED WITH THE MESS?

My team will clean-up/clean-out, inside and out. Organizing, dumping, recycling, odd jobs, yard and maintenance work. Free estimate! We are licensed and insured, with truck and trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867.

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

Tile, grout, carpet, furniture, & pressure wash cleaning, plus water extraction services. Commercial & Residential. A local business for over 35 years. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 727-895-2349 or 727-481-7653.

JS COMPUTER REPAIR

Mobile computer repair – $40 per visit/hour

– 727-643-0697; jscomputerrepair.com

DARCY ROOFING LLC

Residential/Commercial. All roofing typesT.P.O., tapered systems, shingle, metal, tile, & flat roofs. Great prices, best warranties. Our general contracting division also does kitchens, baths, additions, new construction, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727-410-7323.

KEITH THE ROOFER

“Quality Through The Roof.” Free estimates, 24-hour emergency service available. Residential & Commercial. 20+ years experience. All types of roofs. Lic. # CCC 1334641. Call 727-768-5140.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS,EXTENSIONS,DRIVEWAY & REPAIRS

Custom concrete patios, driveway extensions, custom steps, & all types of concrete repairs. Storage Building slabs. Over 35 years experience. Call Mark for a free estimate: 813-859-2023.

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

CLEAN UP YARD - CLEAN OUT HOUSES

Tree Work, Yard Work, Big/Small Tree Removal, Hauling, Trim/Rake, Pressure Cleaning, Handyman. Call Sylvester: 727-460-8721.

YARD CLEAN UP 727-641-9033

Leaves, trees, weeds, etc. Call for estimate: 727-641-9033.

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

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

James Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP MEETS THURSDAYS

Pasadena Community Church / Life Enrichment Building / Classroom 3c, 227 70th St. S., St. Petersburg, Fl 33707. Free, no registration, 7 p.m. Call 727-410-1569 for more information. Website: https:// dbstampabay.org

NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber now provides Notary Services. In office only at 2908-B Beach Blvd S. in Gulfport. Our Notary Public is not an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.

Moving / Hauling

HB HAULING SERVICES Hauling Services

Available. We do everything from junk removal, demo, debris removal, estate clean out, and so much more. 12ft. dump trailer. Mention The Gabber and get a discount. Call or text Kenny Baschuk at 727-793-5816 for free estimates.

JUNK REMOVALFULL SERVICE

Big or Small, We Haul it All. Eviction/hoarder/property cleanouts. Shed/fence removal, carpet removal, garage/storage clean outs. Too much stuff, let us help! Fully Licensed and Insured. Free estimates. Lamys Hauling and Removal Service. 727-5016464. Lamyshaulingandremoval.com.

SEASONS BEST PAINTING & CONTRACTING, LLC Interior/exterior painting and power washing services. Over 25 years of experience. 727-506-3677. Licensed/insured. Lic. #C-11623

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

PINNIX PAINTING, INC. In business locally since 1980. Interior, exterior, commercial, residential. Free Estimates. Lic. #C4334. Call 727-504-1508.

Apple Painting Experts

Benjamin Apple, Owner 727-280-3110

applepaintingexperts.com

applebenjamin81@gmail.com

License # L23000303923

727-902-7077

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

Professional Services

FOOD ASSISTANT NEEDED

Looking for an enthusiastic foodie to assist me with sampling menus for an upcoming project! You will accompany me to restaurants of my choosing and sample dishes of my choice that pertain to the project. You will remain completely anonymous throughout the duration of the project as well as in post-production and publishing. If you love to eat and crave adventure, this is a dope deal for you! Looking to bring you on ASAP! Criteria: Love for food | Open mind | Flexible schedule | Be brutally honest in your feedback | Agree to uphold the integrity of the project by refraining from posting anything on any social media that pertains to the project, including but not limited to restaurants sampled, feedback discussed, service, food/bev, pricing, etc.

THIS IS NON NEGOTIABLE. Compensation: Food. Travel: Included - I’ll drive. NOTE : If you have food allergies, dietary restrictions, a picky palate or count macros, this is NOT a project for you at this time. Contact chefmorganbanno@gmail.com if interested.

Automotive

NISSAN ULTIMA GXE 1999 Automatic, one owner since new, Florida white. Cold A/C, maintained 160k miles, power windows, power door locks. Good, reliable transportation. $1,950. 727-748-9117.

VAN FOR SALE BY DINNER AND DUDS

anxiety, depression, self-esteemthere is hope for a better

Mark Sieg, QS,LCSW, CAP 727-251-2319 marksieg@gulfportcounselingcenter.com

Dinner and Duds for the Homeless is selling our van. 6cyl, 3.9 liter, 15,951.9 miles. Runs but needs work. Good brakes, tires, new ignition switch & window motors. Rust removal/paint roof 2020. Replaced transmission, front pump seal, pan seal. 727851-8177.

Plumbing

Card of Thanks

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

Cycles / Scooters

OLD MOTORCYCLES WANTED *1920-1999*

All vintage motorcycles wanted, all makes and models 1920-1999. Any condition, running or not! Cash paid $$$ we come to you! Call 845-389-3239 or email cyclesndmore10@gmail.com. Parts lots / dirt bikes / three wheelers / ATV’s welcome too!

GULFPORT FAMILY RESTAURANT

Why did you close? Our readers are asking. 727-321-6965

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

Property Managers

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & LEASING SERVICES

Property owners! The Blue Waters Team from Berkshire Hathaway offers full service management: marketing, tenant screening, leasing, 24/7 maintenance and a dedicated website, rentahomewithus.com. Ashtin Brock and Dan Heroux: 727-422-3686. We maximize your investment potential!

Property Managers

FOR SALE TOWNSHORES CONDO

Pet friendly Avalon Building, 55+. Spacious 2bed/2baths with sunny Florida room. Reduced to $275,000. Offered by Keller Williams Gulfside Realty. Call agent Marie Confident at 727-642-6635.

Real Estate Sales Find More Home Sales at thegabber.com. Here’s what homes sold in South Pinellas Sept. 1-7.

Gulfport Real Estate

1212 60th St. S. (Stetson)

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1949, has 854 square feet. It listed for $399,900 and sold for $400,000.

5217 16th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1958, has 1,032 square feet. It listed for $360,000 and sold for $365,000.

5136 Newton Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This 1951 home has two bedrooms, one bath, and 716 square feet. It listed for $329,900 and sold for $325,000.

St. Pete Beach Real Estate

400 64th Ave., #604

2601 Miriam St. S. (Marina)

This 1950 home has four bedrooms, two baths, and 1,320 square feet. It listed for $499,000 and sold for $477,500.

This one-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1974, has 1,003 square feet. It listed for $359,444 and sold for $350,000.

505 67th Ave., #4

This one-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1960, has 560 square feet. It listed for $289,000 and sold for $255,000.

BranchOUT Scholarships

Three $2000 Scholarships Available for 2024

Once again, the Resource Center is proud to partner with Raymond James’ Pride Inclusion Network (PIN) to support continuing education for LGBTQ students in Pinellas County. Three scholarships of $2000 each are available for the 2024 school year. This year’s awards target the

Scholar, Continuing Scholar and Returning Scholar with different levels of work/life experience.

Emerging Scholar

Continuing Scholar Returning Scholar