The Gabber: September 21, 2023

To Tree or Not to Tree

By Patrick Heinzen

Trees are an integral part of any yard. That is, until they become a problem. Trees that cause problems are relatively easy to remove. If a tree isn’t causing a specific problem, it can still be removed, but with stipulations. Florida state statutes allow landowners to remove a tree that poses an “unacceptable risk” to people or property, free of fees from local governments.

At the Sept. 5 Gulfport City Council meeting, Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) proposed an amendment that would make it more difficult for individuals to remove trees.

Chapter 22, Article XX of the Gulfport Code of Ordinances lays out tree guidelines. This current ordinance allows landowners to remove trees after applying for and receiving a permit from the City. Along with this, there are stringent requirements as to the size of the replacement trees, as well as the fee for removal.

Councilmember Thanos’ proposed amendment would add more specifications to those guidelines, but would not override the Florida Statutes.

Proposed Tree Ordinance

Thanos’ proposed amendment promotes the importance of 2-inch, pot-grown trees in favor of the

currently required 4-inch groundgrown trees.

“Say you’re taking out a 10-inch tree. You have to replace it with five

Trees continued on page 5

Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) proposed a new tree ordinance that would make it harder for individuals to remove trees like this one.

CATHY SALUSTRI

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Yellow Kia

Just to let you know. I was watching that little yellow car from central Minnesota. Glad it is OK! —Tim Phillips, Richmond, MN

Advertising

I am deeply offended by the ad on page 13 of the Sept. 7 issue of my beloved Gabber. Criminalize male masturbation?? You’ve got to be joking. Sacred sperm? Dear gawd what crap! There’s plenty of sperm around and it replicates pretty quickly.

Do you really need the money from ads such as this? If so, I’ll pay for the space myself if you want. NOBODY needs to read this!! —Muzi Michaels, not a puritan resident Publisher’s note: The advertiser intends these ads as satire. The ads do not necessarily reflect the beliefs of The Gabber Newspaper,

our staff, or other advertisers. In this case, The Gabber Newspaper does not endorse criminalizing any act of self-pleasure that doesn’t harm anyone else.

Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus

We are all so excited about your wonderful article about our Kyiv visitors!! You beautifully captured the essence and the spirit of this exciting event.

The women have their visas and have begun their journey. We will welcome them to St. Pete on Sunday morning, just in time for them to join our choir in the anthem at the 11 a.m. service. We’ll have the high of their very special concert, then they’ll have a very busy Monday to experience St. Pete.  They’ll board the bus for their next destination Tuesday morning.

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.

We are grateful to have reached our initial fundraising goal, so we will send them with a substantial sum to support their worthy causes in Ukraine.

Thank you both so much for your generous support by spreading the word with an excellent article in The Gabber [Newspaper]. It has significantly contributed to the success we are rejoicing. —Joan

Karins

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.

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The Long and Shorts of It Lakewood High School Students Protested Over Dress Codes

By James Schnur

Forty years ago, students returning to Lakewood High School noticed a new principal, two new assistant principals, and two new deans. “Change” became the buzzword throughout the 1983-84 academic year. The school’s yearbook described that transitional year as a “Time for a Change.”

A short, week-long protest in April 1983 prompted some of these changes. No skirting around the issue: a dressing down about shorts and skirts in the Code of Conduct brought national attention to the Lakewood campus.

Similar to discussions about instructional materials, gender boundaries, and parental involvement in public schools today, battles over dress codes have enmeshed Pinellas school conversations for more than 50 years.

Shoes Optional?

Early Pinellas schools had informal dress codes. Students of-

ten came to class without shoes. Standards became more rigorous after World War II. Kids who lived near groves may have worn blue jeans to class a century ago, but their children had to wear pants or dresses.

Before Boca Ciega High School opened in 1953, the nearest white high schools in lower Pinellas were St. Petersburg, Largo, and Clearwater Highs. Students at St. Pete and Clearwater often joked that Largo Packers never packed shoes when they went anywhere.

Rights and Responsibilities

By the late 1960s, students began to test boundaries in high schools throughout America.

Boys started to grow hair over their ears. Girls donned boots and miniskirts. Pinellas school leaders came up with a proactive approach to address changing student attitudes, fashion tastes, and demands.

During the fall of 1969, Pinellas school leaders created a Student Rights and Responsibilities Committee (SRRC) to address student demands. Rev. Arthur Libby Albers, a progressive Pinellas County School Board member, wanted an advisory committee allowing students to participate in conversations about dress codes, due process, privacy rights, and freedom of expression.

The first SRRC meeting took place at Largo High in November 1969. Albers chaired the meeting of 65 student leaders. By April 1970, SRRC members requested meetings with Superintendent Thomas Southard and board members about dress and grooming rules.

Dressing Down the Dress Code

Dr. Charles Crist, father of Charlie Crist, also served on the school board at the time. After listening to student requests, Crist called for the

The Lakewood High School dress code had students leaving the football stadium after an assembly more than 40 years ago. Note: no shorts in sight.

LAKEWOOD HIGH ALPHA OMEGA YEARBOOK

Trees continued from cover 2-inch trees,” said Thanos. “If they pay us a fee instead of putting in a tree, they aren’t compensating for the loss of that tree.”

Along with the change in size of the tree, Thanos also proposed an increase in the fee to $125.

“We’re just trying to recover the costs of the tree removal,” said Thanos. “I’m not trying to be punitive, but the more it discourages people from removing their trees, the better.”

Community Response

This ordinance garnered community support, receiving two lengthy public comments from Walter Barker and Toffer Ross. Ross works as the City of Gulfport Horticulturalist.

“I’ve been waiting for trees to come up,” said Barker, approaching the podium. “I’m all in favor of whatever we can do to increase trees and allow trees to survive. Make it more costly because if

Gulfport gathers

they’re going to clear it, they’re going to clear it.”

Barker stressed the importance of trees to Gulfport as a whole. He described his disappointment at the lack of trees in the area surrounding the city.

Ross brought up studies coming out of Florida universities. She explained these studies demonstrate the specific importance of figuring out the perfect situation for a tree to survive, looking across size, place, species, and time of planting.

“Be cautious with a 4-inch tree,” said Ross. “Citizens have a tough time buying a 4-inch tree and it is hard to get citizens to do what you tell them to. If we’re not enforcing it, it won’t get done.”

Council Response

Despite the public support at the meeting, Council still was apprehensive to pass the amendment in its current form.

“I believe the current ordinance

is fine. I don’t think we need to improve it. It isn’t broken,” said Councilmember Ian O’Hara (Ward IV).

Similarly, Councilmember Christine Brown (Ward II) described concerns with the amendment.

“I don’t want to make it harder for people to replace trees. I don’t want to make it harder for the family who wants to build a room for grandma and have to remove a tree to make it happen,” said Brown.

In its current state, the amendment failed to pass.

“I came in here thinking this was a great idea, but that isn’t what I’m hearing,” Mayor Sam Henderson said before calling the vote. “Would anyone be opposed with tabling this and looking at it more? I do want to see something that would give you more pause before removing a tree, but I want to make sure that if we are making it more stringent, we are doing it in the smartest possible way.”

The council tabled the amendment and will discuss again in the future.

Dress Code continued from page 4

district to scrap all codes and permit principals to have discretion on determining standards of “good taste and good hygiene.”

Students proudly shared their opinions and administrators listened. For the rest of the 1969-70 school year, girls could wear pantsuits, boots, and miniskirts. Boys could grow their hair longer and wear sandals, or shoes without socks, as a way of “air-conditioning” their feet, unless they had an industrial arts class. All junior and senior high students could wear shorts.

The liberalized dress code continued for the next few years. By January 1971, principals approved the concept of enforcing “clean and decent” dress and grooming. Unlike earlier paternalistic policies or later restrictive retrenchments, principals bore the burden of explaining why attire or hair styles failed to meet acceptable policies.

Some restrictions did remain. Rules shaved away opportunities for boys to wear mustaches, beards, beads, t-shirts, or medallions. Girls could not wear bloomer dresses.

By the mid-1970s, student leaders who had served on the SRRC could take credit for ensuring student involvement in the creation of a dress code that most of their peers liked. SRRC participation also fostered increased opportu-

nities for girls to establish middle and high school sports teams.

A Short Leash

Dress code restrictions increased in the late 1970s. Principals reclaimed their right to restrict the wearing of shorts. Lee Roy Sullivan became Lakewood’s principal during the 1979-80 school year. He brought administrative experience from his tenure as leader at Safety Harbor Middle School, a campus where shorts had been given the short shrift.

Known as “Roy,” Sullivan soon prohibited Lakewood Spartans from wearing shorts and shoes without backs. Lakewood’s SRRC members unsuccessfully appealed him to reconsider in January 1980. During the beginning of the 1982-83 school year, Lakewood was one of six of the county’s 14 public high schools that did not permit shorts.

On a countywide level, SRRC members believed that school administrators had lost interest in their input. In early April 1983, a Seminole High student called on peers to consider a strike to get the attention of school board members and Supt. Scott Rose. Soon thereafter, the situation escalated at Lakewood High.

Spartans in Skirts

Tax Day 1983 was a taxing day for Sullivan. On April 15, Jeff Struthers came to campus wearing a blue miniskirt. A few other students followed the senior’s lead in conspiring to show some leg. Struthers and the others protested that they could not wear shorts less revealing than the miniskirts their female peers regularly wore.

Some Lakewood administrators initially responded with a little humor. Catherine Fleeger, an assistant principal at the time, told a St. Petersburg Times (now Tampa Bay Times ) reporter that there was no need to overreact if a few students attempted to skirt the rules.

“If they want to wear miniskirts, there’s nothing we can do about it,” she said.

Noting that wearing miniskirts was a popular fad at the time, Fleeger added that “girls would have a hard time finding anything else on the racks to wear.”

Indeed, girls provided most of the skirts that boys wore during the protest.

Sullivan did not share Fleeger’s lighthearted view. According to Struthers, Sullivan called him into the office and said he would not graduate if he showed up in a skirt again. Sullivan also warned the entire student body over the intercom that nobody should test his resolve by challenging the dress code.

A second wave of protests occurred on April 20. Approximately 20 students donned skirts for less than 15 minutes in front of television cameras at campus. By the time classes began and reporters departed, long pants had replaced skirts.

Sullivan could not skirt around the growing attention the media gave to these protests. He fielded calls from CBS News and turned down a request to appear on ABC’s Good Morning America. Students began to call into local radio stations to complain about the dress code.

“You are no longer students at Lakewood High School,” Sullivan admonished.

On April 21, Sullivan decided to suspend Struthers for five days, a move that angered many of his classmates. The following morning, more than 250 students showed their frustration.

One week after the initial protest, more than 50 students wore shorts to campus on April 22. Others missed the first class bell in support of peers who wore shorts. Some held signs with statements such as “Cool it Sullivan” and “We want shorts” in front of the cameras.

Sullivan ordered students to go to class. Most dispersed, but a few stayed. Acting on behalf of Superintendent Rose, he warned students again. When the bell for second period rang, he told the remaining 37 students they were suspended for up to 10 days.

“You are no longer students at Lakewood High School,” Sullivan admonished. Police escorted them from campus.

Talk in the Teachers’ Lounge

By the early 1980s, teachers at Lakewood High witnessed many transitions. Racial tensions started to ease. Due to changing demographics, Lakewood had integrated without many students having

to travel long distances on buses.

Mike Eccles did his internship at Lakewood High. He remembers the camaraderie on a campus that had a “neighborhood school” feel. Students got along well with each other, and “Lakewood had found out something” about integrating in a way that had not happened at other schools.

When a social studies faculty position opened immediately after he earned his degree from the University of South Florida, Eccles had the rare opportunity to stay at the

same school. He agreed to coach as well as teach.

Eccles recalled that older faculty tended to frown on the protests as an unnecessary distraction. Younger and newer teachers generally supported the cause. They believed that students had legitimate complaints and learned leadership skills from their actions.

Eccles credited the students for carefully reviewing the Code of Conduct and doing their research.

“You have to stand up for what you believe,” he added.

Faculty could see that Sullivan was caught in the middle, trying to enforce a school policy while feeling obvious pressure from Rose to quell any dress code dissent.

Eccles remembered Sullivan as a hands-off administrator who trusted his teachers and cared deeply about student success. Sullivan only planned to intervene if necessary. Demands from above and growing media attention left him no choice.

The Long and Shorts of It

Although Rose wanted to make an example of the students, Sullivan ultimately took a more moderate tone. By April 25, most suspensions were reduced to three days, ensuring that seniors would be able to graduate with their peers.

Dress Code continued on page 8

Roy Sullivan, Lakewood High School’s principal, taking a call during the 1979-80 school year.

LAKEWOOD HIGH ALPHA OMEGA YEARBOOK

No students had to transfer to another school.

Less than two weeks after the skirt protests, Rose announced that Lakewood would get a new principal. The superintendent cited a policy of rotating principals every 10 years, an argument that made little sense since Sullivan has served at Lakewood for less than five years.

Administrators claimed that Sullivan’s transfer to Countryside High School in the fall of 1983 had nothing to do with the protests. Fred Buckman replaced Sullivan as Lakewood’s new principal 40 years ago this fall.

A month after the protests, an advisory body comprised of parents recommended a full ban on shorts in middle and high schools.

Unlike in earlier days, no SRRC members had direct involvement in this decision. Rose persuaded school board members to pass this ban during the summer of 1983.

Two years later, Rose convinced the school board to ban “disruptive” hair styles. This occurred after a girl at St. Pete High came to campus with purple accents in her hair and received a suspension.

End of the Short Story

Those involved in the April 1983 protest at Lakewood argued that if some students had permission to wear skirts, all students should have that right. Shorts are common attire on many campuses today.

Before the end of April 1983, 60

boys at a California high school held a successful skirt-in. Five years later, some students at North Miami Beach High School held an April 1988 skirt-wearing protest after air conditioners failed at their campus.

Sullivan spent more than a decade at Countryside before retiring in 1996. Fleeger later served as the school system’s Deputy Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer. Both outlasted the tenure of Rose, who retired in 1991.

Eccles transferred to Countryside in the fall of 1984, a year after Sullivan. Today, he volunteers as a docent at the Palm Harbor Museum.

While sharing his love of Florida history, he often wears shorts.

Dress Code continued from page 7

A shot with shorts in the library, 1983.

LAKEWOOD HIGH ALPHA OMEGA YEARBOOK

Repairs and Renovations

Gulfport City Council Approves Financial Assistance Grants

By Patrick Heinzen

As Gulfport continues to grow, so does the need for renovations and assessments. In order to get this done, Gulfport City Council approved two resolutions allowing the city manager to receive financial assistance grants.

Both of these grants are from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to better the infrastructure of Gulfport.

Sewer Repairs

Resolution 2023-71 focused on repairing sewers — with help from a $1 million grant.

Overall, the City will repair about 24,030 linear feet of sanitary sewer main lines with this money. Repairs involve the use of trenchless technology that allows the City to maintain sewers without having to dig deep into the ground and disrupt the lives of residents.

The City hopes to finish this project by April 30, 2025.

Environmental Risks in Gulfport

Resolution 2023-72 involves an $80,000 grant from Advanced Engineering.

This grant covers the Gulfport Comprehensive Vulnerability As-

sessment. This looks at environmental risks to Gulfport, and how to address them to make the city safer.

Following the approval of both resolutions, a single “Yay!” could be heard from Councilmember April Thanos.

Two approved resolutions allow the City of Gulfport to receive financial assistance grants from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Higher Property Taxes

Treasure Island Commissioners Set Tax Rate

By Lisa Leveroni

While the City of Tampa rejected a property tax increase last week (4-3), Treasure Island Board of Commissioners accepted a vote on a tax increase for next fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2024). At the Sept. 5 commission meeting, commissioners voted for the property tax increase (4-1).

If passed at the next meeting, the property tax increase will be approximately 10.38%. Vice Mayor Partridge asked to slow the vote on this issue. She expressed concern that her constituents had objected to the tax increase.

Mayor Tyler Payne said the second reading of Ordinance 2023-15 will be at the next commission meeting on Sept. 18. He indicated that there would be time for further discussion then.

“It is important to remember that the millage rate is flat to [still the same as] last year,” Payne said.

The City’s millage rate is 3.8129. That means property owners will pay $3.81 (3.8129 mils) per $1,000 of assessed property value. That excludes Homestead and other exemptions. The raise in taxes is not because the Commission raised the millage rate, but because property values have increased.

Property Values Up

Whenever homes get assessed at a higher value due to comparative neighboring home values, taxes rise to the assessed values of these homes.

Payne used an example of a $1.5 million home. He explained that the property tax increase would total approximately $200, annually. (Editor’s note: This refers to the City of Treasure Island property tax, not Pinellas County, Pinellas County School Board, Southwest Florida Water Management District, Anclote Basin Board, or other taxing agencies.)

He asked commissioners and residents to “reach out” and request a packet from the most recent budget workshop. This packet shows most of the budget goes to other taxing agencies, such as the  school board and Pinellas County.

Some City-collected tax dollars will go towards infrastructure, Payne said.

“We are preparing for the future,” said Payne. “We’re making improve-

ments to help the City be here for 30, 40, 50 years. We have a 50-yearold sewer system that badly needs replacing.”

Temporary Waiver of Building Permit Fees

After Hurricane Idalia, approximately 246 structures on Treasure Island have water and wind damage. Until Oct. 18, the City will waive building permit fees associated with repairs of fences, trees, walls, electrical, roofing, soffit and facia, gutters, and related items. Call the City Clerk’s office for details.

“It was heartwarming to see people helping each other after the storm on Sunset Beach,” said Payne. “Our hearts go out to the folks at Big Bend.”

If passed, the property tax increase will be approximately 10.38%.

MONROE ROARK

Let’s Talk Beach Renourishment

Pinellas County Officials Question Beach Renourishment Plans

By Lisa Leveroni

The History

After introducing his team of presenters, Booth talked about the history of beach renourishment, which he said started in about 1966. That’s when Congress authorized renour-

ishment projects in Sand Key (Clearwater Beach), Treasure Island, and Long Key (St. Pete Beach).

“The Army Corps cannot do anything without authorization of the U.S. Congress,” Booth explained.

The 1986 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) mandated the Corps’ cost-sharing requirements for Shore Protection Projects (SPP).

“Roughly 65% of the cost sharing under the WRDA is federally funded,” he explained. “The remaining 35% will be funded by the county and local governments.”

Booth said the Corps perform renourishment to control beach erosion control and protect the shoreline, not for recreational benefits. Protection of infrastructure, he said, is core to these projects.

“The federal government is not going to pay for the nourishment of

Pinellas County officials expressed concern with the beach renourishment plans — or lack thereof — by the Army Corps of Engineers.

LISA LEVERONI

On Sept. 8, Florida native Colonel Jamie Booth, the Jacksonville District Commander for the Army Corps of Engineers spoke at a Pinellas County-wide meeting at Indian Shores Town Hall.

beaches on private shores. This is what we are talking about with regard to easements,” Booth said.

Reducing the Risk to Infrastructure

“The engineered beach that’s out there is to protect the infrastructure,” Booth said.

The Army Corps of Engineers achieves this through the Erosion Control Line (ECL) and what they call an “engineered berm.”

Congress authorized the Corps to build up this 40-foot berm, which Booth called “sacrificial sand.” Also, the Corps establishes the ECL (designated by the state) at the high water mark on the beach. Seaward of the ECL is public beach; landward of the ECL is often privately owned property.

The Role of Perpetual Easements

“You can think of it as the power company having an easement on your land to do repairs and restore power … the perpetual easement is the same for beach renourishment,” explained Booth.

Pinellas County has the responsibility of obtaining easements. The County does not have 100% compliance from Sand Key to Pass-a-Grille.

In 2018, the Corps performed Beach Erosion Control (BEC) for the last time without perpetual easements. When asked if they would perform any Beach Erosion Control without perpetual easements henceforth, the answer was no.

Public Officials Speak

Pinellas County Commissioner Brian Scott asked if the state, county, or federal government held the easements. The answer: Pinellas County holds perpetual easements.

St. Pete Beach City Manager Alex Rey asked Booth what the Corps plans to do about Pass-a-Grille Beach.

“The situation that we have here … in St. Pete Beach, in Pass-a-Grille is that we didn’t have enough of what you call ‘sacrificial sand’ on the south-

ern portion of the beach ... before [the storm],” Rey said. “So we completely lost all the remaining sand and the entire dune system … you talk about protecting infrastructure, well right now, there is absolutely no protection.”

Additionally, Rey asked about what can be done rather than hear reasons why it cannot.

“This is an urgent situation that we have now,” Rey said. “We have a sufficient segment that needs to [be saved] and it needs to [be saved] now.”

St. Pete Beach Mayor Adrian Petrila asked why the agreement to renourish changed from a few months ago.

“Will the federal government step up and fix the problem now?” he asked. The answer? No, not until the city comes into policy compliance.

Corps Project Manager Ashleigh Fountain said the Pass-a-Grille project is due for renourishment.

“We will be ready to go … we have the funds, but we have to have the land,” she said about the perpetual easements.

Questions for the Corps

Treasure Island Mayor Tyler Payne asked about this easement language: “the right of public use and access” to private property. Payne indicated this scares property owners from signing.

North Redington Beach Mayor Bill Queen asked if the cities went forward with their own repair, would the Corps issue any penalty. The answer was no.

After that, Pinellas County Commissioner Kathleen Peters asked about a

penalty by FEMA. Booth said he could not speak for FEMA. However, his team reiterated that as long as the projects were policy compliant, the cities would not get penalized.

“If we never come into policy compliance, does that mean that the federal government will never help us with beach renourishment?” Matthew McConnell, Assistant City Attorney of St. Pete Beach, asked.

Booth indicated that was correct.

Beach Renourishment Comes Down to Language

“It is not that the property owners do not want their property renourished; it is the public access piece [that bothers them],” Pinellas County Commissioner Rene Flowers said. “You would not be able to control persons wanting to use the beach for recreational purposes and they go through your property to get to the public beach.

“I am asking, is there not a better way to define the public access ... so that you could carve out that public access,” Flowers said. “When we write policies and things, we tweak that language to make it read the way that we desire for it to read.

Then she finished with this thought about beach renourishment and public access:

“Let’s look at how we define that public access. I would love for you all to look at it. I’ll run it up to D.C. with you. Let’s look at that. Those of us who have attorneys within our municipalities can address this.”

There was applause in the room.

Stay Alert

Phone Scammers Impersonate Pinellas County Sheriff ’s Deputies

By Mike Sunnucks

Beware of phone scammers impersonating as Pinellas County captains, sergeants, and lieutenants with the County’s Sheriff office.

“A suspect called a citizen and identified himself as ‘Captain Somers’,” according to a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office press release.

After falsely identifying themselves, the suspect told the citizen they had two outstanding warrants due to missing jury duty. To clear the warrants, the suspect told the citizen they need to pay $3,000 through Zelle or Venmo.”

Don’t Fall for the Bit

PCSO said the agency and its personnel will never call residents asking for money. Additionally, the office would never ask for over-thetelephone, online payment, or wire transfers. They will also not ask for banking or personal information.

In August, PCSO said a fraudster called a resident identifying himself a “Sergeant Ryan Armstrong.”

“The suspect told the victim that

she was going to be charged with failure to appear for a civil violation and a warrant was issued for her arrest,” PCSO said. “The victim was then transferred to multiple different males, claiming to be Jack Peterson and Lieutenant John Luckett.”

This scammer convinced the

woman to buy various gift cards totaling more than $12,500 to resolve a bogus arrest warrant, according to police.

Other Florida police departments and other parts of the U.S. also report similar officer impersonation scams seeking money from potential targets.

Pinellas County Sheriff ’s Office warns of phone scammers impersonating as Pinellas captains, sergeants, and lieutenants.

ADOBE STOCK

city whys

What’s Happening With Gulfport Family Restaurant?

A Reader Asks About The Restaurant’s Status

the building department.”

Although the BTR is still under review, the Gulfport Family Restaurant still faces some issues.

“It has been discovered that the owner has installed a gas water heater without permits,” said Taylor.

Unfortunately for the Gulfport Family Restaurant, this is a code violation and therefore is under review by the city’s code enforcement office. The City gave the owner a compliance date and must resolve the issue, or face being brought to a special magistrate.

Since the new changes are building-related, the City allows the owner to apply for special, afterthe-fact permits. This would allow them to keep their improvements the way they are.

This week, readers want to know the status of the Gulfport Family Restaurant.

Question: “What’s happening with Gulfport Family Restaurant on 49th Street South?” —multiple phone calls and emails

Answer: The Gabber Newspaper received multiple inquiries. We had no luck contacting anyone at the business, so we ran an ad in our classified section looking for anyone with more information. That only prompted more people calling and asking if we’d learned anything.

Finally, we turned to the City of Gulfport and asked if anyone had applied for permits. We spoke with Michael Taylor from the city’s community development department, who provided us with a more concrete understanding of what is going on with the local diner.

“There has not been any recent

permit activity for (the diner),” said Taylor. “A business tax receipt (BTR) has been submitted to our department and is in the review process. It passed through the zoning review and is currently with

While the future of the Gulfport Family Restaurant remains unclear, it sure isn’t over. A new “coming soon” sign hanging on the front of the diner provides residents and tourists alike with a reason to be excited.

We’d love to hear more about what locals can expect — if you’re reading this and you own the diner, please call us at 727-321-6965.

Readers wanted to know the status of the Gulfport Family Restaurant.

PATRICK HEINZEN

a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, the hourly capacity is limited. You must call to pre-register.

Supplemental food assistance for qualifying Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Proper verification required prior to use of the pantry.

GEMS (Gulfport Extended Mobility Service) provides affordable Door-to-Door transportation service, rides to medical appointments, shopping, and much more for Gulfport residents, 55 years of age or older or disabled. 727-893-2242.

Medical Equipment Lending Program provides gently used wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and other medical equipment to seniors who need it. Supplies limited.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Medicare & Health Insurance Assistance

Frustrated trying to navigate the insurance world? We have you covered! Make your appointment today.

Memory Screenings Worried about your memory? St. Anthony’s Memory Disorder Clinic offers free & confidential memory screenings.

Gulfcoast Legal Assistance Do you need assistance, with lifetime planning docs, Medicaid/Medicare issues, Social Security issues, food stamp issues, family law is-

sues, consumer/debt collection Issues, or housing/contract Issues? Call to make an appointment with a legal representative. By appointment only.

TEDTalks: “Focusing on your Strengths”

TED Talks are thought provoking “ideas worth sharing.” Come out for this monthly viewing & discussion of an inspirational TED Talk. MUST Pre-Register. Rm 107. Sept. 21, 1 p.m.

In the Kitchen with Chef Jack: Homemade Italian Tomato Bisque Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step instruction from Chef Jack. MUST Pre-register. D Hall. Sept. 21, 4 p.m.

EPIC Coffee Connections EPIC Generations invites LGBTQ+ adults for coffee, friendship, & support. Rm 106. Sept. 22, 10 a.m. Save Money & Leave Legacy Discuss how to gain more financial stability and freedom, that will result in protecting your family and leaving a wonderful legacy. Must Pre-Register. D Hall. Sept. 26, 2 p.m.

Music Bingo & Cake! Come celebrate this month’s Birthdays. D Hall. Sept. 27, 3 p.m.

Armchair Adventures: The North Countries Explore the world from the comfort of your chair. This month we travel to different parts of Denmark, Germany, & Sweden; all of which were originally formed by The Norse. D Hall. Sept. 28, 4 p.m.

Movie Matinee Take a break from the hustle & bustle and enjoy a movie on the big screen. Call for movie title. Theater. Sept. 29, 1 p.m.

Pasta for a Purpose! Get Your Tickets

Today. The Gulfport Senior Center and The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation is proud to host our first-ever Night in Italy event to raise funds for the Gulfport Senior Center Capital Building Campaign. The Night in Italy event, presented by Walmart Health, will take place at the Gulfport Historic Casino on Monday, October 16, 2023 featuring delicious Italian cuisine and a musical evening you'll never forget. Your Italian dinner will include an appetizer, bread, salad, a choice of three entrees, and dessert all catered by DaSesto Italiano Ristorante. During dinner, Carlann Evans, a member of the Sarasota Orchestra, will surround you with masterful violin music and a local favorite jazz orchestra, HOT TONIC, will perform immediately following dinner with high-energy jazz music to dance the night away. Limited tickets are available for $50, which includes dinner, entertainment, and a wine, beer, mixed drink, or soda/water at The Gulfport Senior Center (5501 27th Ave S., Gulfport), The Gulfport Historic Casino (5500 Shore Blvd S., Gulfport), The Beach Bazaar, or online at https://NightInItaly2023. eventbrite.com Want to sit with your friends? No problem, you may reserve a table of 8 for $450. SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE. Please contact (727) 893-1231 for more information.

Gulfport Casino Ballroom 727-893-1070 • 5500 Shore Blvd. S.

Country Western Two Step with Carol & Danielle Sept. 22, 7 p.m., lesson, 8 p.m. dancing. $15 admission/$25 couples

Contra Dance with Tampa Friends of Old Time Dance Sept. 24, 3:30 p.m., Contra lesson; 4 p.m., dancing with band & caller. $10 admission

Line Dancing with Aleta & Carol Oct. 2, 7 p.m., lesson; 8 p.m. dancing. $10 admission

Casino Weekly Dances

Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12 p.m. $15 ($25 couple)

Argentine Tango: Tues., 6:30 p.m., $10

Swing: Weds., 7 p.m. $10

Latin Night: Thurs., 7 p.m. $10

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

Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8

Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events.

NGA West Coast Classic Body Building Competition Sept. 23, 9 a.m. Tickets are $25 - $130 at ngagatorproductions.com/ tickets

Painted Raven Harvest Moon Celebration Concert Sept. 29, 7 p.m. Tickets $25 and $40 on Eventbrite.com. General Admission tickets at Senior Center, Beach Bazaar, & Casino

Sapateiro Invitational JLCS5 Jiu Jitsu/ Grappling Tournaments Sept. 30, 6 p.m. $30 general admission & $50 first two rows. Tickets on Eventbrite.com.

Baby Time For children two and younger and their caregivers. Sing songs, read books, enjoy lap bounce rhymes, and meet other caregivers with infants and young toddlers. Older siblings also welcome. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.

Teen Space Spend time with friends and meet new ones. Play games, make art, watch movies, or just hang out. Activities vary – and what we do is up to you! Ages 12-18 only. Tuesdays, 4 p.m.

Storytime Join us for stories, rhymes, music. Thursdays, 10:15 & 11 a.m.

Gulfport Book Club This month's selection is Steppenwolf; and other writings by Hermann Hesse. The club will also discuss other works of Hesse, not limited to that novel. Available in print and audio from the Circulation Desk. Sept. 21, 2 p.m.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Basics Presentation on Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D and

what they mean to you. FMI, visit www.floridashine.org . Call the Reference Desk 727-8931073 to leave contact information for individual appointments. Sept. 22, 1 p.m.

Keep Calm & Carry Yarn Join us for a weekly knitting and crochet group! Bring your current project, start something new, learn a new skill, and meet other crafters! Don't know how to knit or crochet? That's ok, we can help you get started. Call 727-893-1074 for additional information. Sept. 25, 10:15 a.m.

STEAM Club: Author Connie Nye STEAM is short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. We welcome local author Connie Nye to talk about her book "Can He Keep It" and what it means to be a steward of nature. Recommended for Grades K-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information call 727-893-1074. Sept. 27, 4 p.m.

COF Presents: Introduction to Bonsai The

Suncoast Bonsai Society will provide an Introduction to Bonsai. During the program we will get an overview of what bonsai is (and what it is not) including the origins, features, different styles and styling techniques, as well as basic care and maintenance. Sponsored by the Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Public Library. Sept. 28, 1 p.m.

Trivia Night Hosted by Gulfport Librarian Alex, a prepared list of questions will be shared with players, who will compete to answer the most questions correctly. Team play is an option with enough attendees. Sept. 28, 6 p.m.

Sew Easy: Reusable Snack Bag Let's get sustainable! In this beginner sewing program we will learn how to make reusable snack bags. Registration required, you may sign-up starting Sept. 22 by calling 727-893-1074 or emailing library.programs@mygulfport.us. Sept. 29, 1 p.m.

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents

Pickleball

Mon., 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Intermediate & Advanced Players

Tues., 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Beginners

Tues., 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., All Levels of Play

Thurs., 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., All Levels of Play

Adult Basketball

Wed. & Fri., 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Thurs., 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Table Tennis

Tues. & Thurs. 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Game Room

Mon., Wed., & Fri., 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

PROGRAMS

School Year Child Care Program Registrations continue for the 2023-2024 School Year Child Care Program for children who are in Kindergarten thru age 14. Bus transportation is available from Pasadena Fundamental, Gulfport Montessori and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program hours are until 5:30 p.m. with extended hours available until 6 p.m. for an extra charge. Please contact the Recreation Center for more details.

Teen Night Registrations continue for the 2023-2024 Teen Night Program for teens in middle and high school, students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required: $3; $25 nonresidents.

Tot Time Program Registrations continue for the 2023-2024 Tot Time Program. The Tot Time Program is a pre-school, handson program for children ages 3-5 aiming to make learning fun for children and help prepare them for Kindergarten. Two, three, and five-day monthly options are available. Program hours are from 8:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Registration hours are from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Proof of residency is required for Gulfport residents.

CLASSES

Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call Jami: 727893-1079.

Ballet/Tap Tues., 5:45 p.m. ages 5-7; 6:45 p.m. ages 8-16. $40/month. Call Lisa: 727742-2594.

Intermediate Tap Tues., 7:45 p.m. $20/ month. Call Lisa: 727-742-2594.

Cardio Tennis Tues. & Thurs, 6 p.m.; Adult lessons are at Chase Park, 28th Ave. & 53rd St. S. $15/class. Mo: 727-515-1454.

F.I.T Tennis Fri., 6p.m.; Free for true beginners age 21 and up. Lessons are at Chase Park, 28th Ave & 53rd St. S. Mo: 727-515-1454. Hatha Yoga Wed., 6:15 p.m. $12/class or $40/ month. Denise: 727-251-8868.

Youth Hip Hop Fri., 6:30 p.m., ages 7-11; 7:30 p.m. ages 12 and up. $40/month. Call Lisa at 727-742-2594.

Tai Chi Gung Mon. 6:30p.m. $15/class or $50/month. Call Kare 727-262-0880

Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m., $6/class, $20/month. Magda: 727-214-7868.

Catherine Hickman Theater 727-893-1070 • 5501 27th Ave. S.

according to gulfport

Yellow Kia, Fire Spinning, and Unemployment Random Quotes from Gulfportians

By Chris Shablak

I nominate the yellow Kia for next year’s Gecko Queen.

Pasckinski,

“I’ve been around a few fire spinners in my day.” —Aaron William, watching the acrobat at Tommy’s Hideaway

“Wait, that whole bottle of sauvignon blanc is only 100 calories?” —Heidi Carol, hearing about Guisen’s non-alcoholic wine

“It’s fun-employment, not unemployment.” —Lisa Halter, enjoying her three free days before starting her new job

“Brush only the teeth you want to keep.” —Herb Holeman’s life advice for his son

—Harvey

on our now-iconic hurricane survivor

A Little Bit of Murder

‘Paradise is Deadly’ is a Deliciously Twisted Treat

By Amanda Hagood

In their riveting new anthology, Paradise is Deadly (Mystery and Horror, LLC, 2023), an impressive group of Florida authors — the Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime — speaks to a well-established premise: Florida. Is trying. To kill you. Florida noir fans probably won’t be surprised by the idea that the Sunshine State is actually pretty shady. But in this case, the devil, and much delight, is in the details.

Each of the collection’s nineteen short stories is a sinister treat. Like a hidden candy stash, I found myself wanting to scarf these tales down — just one more! — when I probably should have washed the dishes or answered emails. Oh, sweet twisted deliciousness!

Sisters in Crime

The Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime was founded in 2015, an offshoot of the Florida chapter of the national Sisters in Crime organization, which promotes the advancement, recognition, and professional development of women crime writers. Paradise is Deadly is the group’s first anthology.

Some of the contributors (such as editors Wendy Dingwall, Martha Reed, and Barbara Ryan) are acclaimed veteran crime writers. Others are publishing for the first time. All of the stories focus on locations along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The stories strike a wide variety of tone and genre, from warmtoned cozies, to nail-biting thrillers, to rich historical fiction.

All Over The Map

I particularly enjoyed the broody buildup of Jenna Kernan’s “Small Craft Advisory.” This tale pits the strained friendship of two men on a less-than-legal crabbing expedition against two tourists on jet skis — all while a dark storm is rolling in. I also relished the absurdity of Wendy Dingwall’s “Murder in Myakka Park.” A new age protagonist practices neo-shamanistic listening through the minds of forest critters to get to the bottom of a murder. Say no more: I’m in! And the cold, calculating logic of a therapist gone rogue in Cindy Martin’s “The Malice Challenge” left me both shaken and stirred — in a good way.

Your mileage may vary. You may be drawn to different stories simply because of the well-loved places they profile. Among them: Spanish Point, Ybor City, and the Everglades. But each of the collection’s stories is well worth the short time it takes to read it.

Oh, Florida!

Maybe it’s just living through three close brushes with hurricanes. (Irma God!, Ian’t Misbehavin’, and The Very Idalia, as we call them in our house). But there’s a grain of truth to Florida stories that call evoke the mystery and precariousness of life on this wild peninsula. Any while some may call it escapism, I’m not quite ready to place myself on a strict diet of The Wall Street Journal.

I think fiction has a place, and that place is somewhere between the heart and the head. Right where flurry of human facts and feelings come together, demanding answers.

Paradise is Deadly helped me think through my strong positive feelings for this bewitching and bewildering state. It might do just the same for you.

Caution – crime scene ahead! Paradise is Deadly is a new anthology by Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime, featuring new and veteran crime writers of Florida.

AMANDA HAGOOD

Life

is a Beach... Then Comes College

Boca Ciega High Grad Jennifer Westlake’s Novel ‘Sand Moon’

By Amanda Hagood

The summer after senior year in high school is a time of endless exciting possibilities. And one sort of scary reality: that you just might – sort of –be an adult now. In the midst of these many changes, local author Jennifer Westlake sets her charming comingof-age novel, Sand Moon.

The story centers on newly graduated Andie, whose boss at the local news station — fresh from her latest wellness retreat — has given her a challenging assignment: Find yourself, then write all about it.

Andie’s quest takes her to the dreamy beach town of Sand Moon. There, from her adorable seaside cottage, she meets a lovely townie called Eric and a spunky cottage-neighbor, Bella, who is in the process of inheriting her parents’ ice cream business. With her new friends, Andie discovers the joys of dancing into the night, sleeping on the beach, and eating ice cream on literally everything. Until adulthood, in the form of her mother’s demand that she enroll in a faraway college, comes knocking.

If it all sounds a little dreamy — a month-long beach junket for a cub reporter, a world where daily icecream-for-breakfast never makes you fat — it is. Readers with a taste for gritty reality may not vibe with this confectionary young adult fiction. But anyone (ahem, present company included) who grew up with summer beach trips, where “the beach” was an extraordinary blank canvas on which new friendships, summer romance, and long, sweet days could all be imagined in vibrant pastels… anyone like that will be charmed with the world the novel evokes.

Westlake is no stranger to the beach. During her time at Boca Ciega

High School, she can remember frequent JROTC jogs to Gulfport Beach, and almost daily trips to Treasure Island with her dad. The town of Sand Moon, with its artsy, eccentric characters and sun worshipping culture, is inspired by the two places.

She also remembers her own long journey toward self-discovery. Diagnosed with interstitial cystitis shortly after graduating from high school, she spent her early adulthood balancing a variety of jobs with college, attempting to find her true path while keeping up with medical bills. Exploring this transitional time in life through writing — working on the draft that would eventually become Sand Moon — was a therapeutic exercise.

“So many of the books I really enjoy take place during that timeframe,” she notes.

Westlake, whose career includes some years as a middle school educator, is especially excited to be working in the young adult space.

“Young adult writing gives readers something to bond about,” she says, recalling instant connections with people who share her passion for particular series or characters.

She admits that there is a lot of pressure for young adult authors to include sex, drugs, and cursing in their worlds — things, publishers say, that make the stories “relevant” for young readers. But she didn’t want this for Sand Moon, which certainly presents feelings of young love and attraction, but spends more time on the emotional complexity of relationships than on sexual intimacy. The characters’ relationships feel close and poignant just the same. Like lyrics from your favorite song, blasted on a car stereo, as you and your friends fly down the road on a summer night.

One thing Sand Moon does present in excess is ice cream. Characters eat it in multiple servings for dessert, on pancakes for breakfast, or just when they need to stop and think. It’s a treat Westlake associates closely with the beach and with the feeling of happiness and fulfillment that Andie seeks.

“I just really love ice cream!” she laughs.

And though she may become the first author ever censored by the FDA, Sand Moon is delicious to the last, sweet lick.

Sand Moon explores that dreamy time between high school and the rest of your life.

AMANDA HAGOOD

"Mad Beach Plans Increased Density”

Vegan Brunch and Bites

Good Intentions in St. Petersburg

By Morgan Banno

Veganism has always perplexed me. I understand not wanting to participate in greenhouse gas emissions or animal cruelty, and I totally get being vegan for health purposes. But what I find utterly fascinating are the number of plant-based consumers who turn to fake meats specifically designed to mimic the flavor and texture of real animal muscle.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed plenty of Buffalo Chick’n Patties and SmartDogs in my day. I used to happily throw down on a tempeh Philly or fried tofu Banh Mi. But vegan food is so much more than artificially-flavored, chemically-laced, fake meat pucks.

St. Pete’s first full-service vegan restaurant and bar, Good Intentions, is now open and slinging some damn fine vegan eats that are super-fresh and guilt-free.

Vegan Mastery

Good Intentions is the brilliant, veg-head brainchild of proprietors of Golden Dinosaurs, Black Radish Vegan Grocery Store, and Nah Dogs. It’s nestled between St. Petersburg’s Edge District and Grand Central, and despite the vegan stereotype, no, it does not smell like hippies and patchouli.

When we arrived for Sunday brunch, the place was nearly packed with Gen Z hipsters and what seemed like a vegan cult following.

But my favorite part: The horseshoe bar enveloped in lush, hanging plants. It gives the ambiance of dining in a quaint little park. If bar seating is available on your visit, snatch it up.

While the mimosa bar was tempting ($29 for a bottle of champagne and two juices of your choice), I chose to double-fist a hot latte ($4) and ginger peach kombucha ($6) from St. Pete Ferments.

Against popular opinion, break-

fast is not my favorite, nor is it my most important meal of the day. (Ironic, considering my wife owns breakfast restaurants I’ve spent the last decade working at.) But brunch at Good Intentions is anything but ubiquitous.

Order This

Appetizers first. Get the lemon whipped ricotta ($14). Not only will you be shocked that it’s completely plant-based but you will lick the bowl clean, because it’s that good.

Served with pistachio pesto and Szechuan chili agave, the dish is complete with sourdough crostinis courtesy of Gulf Coast Sourdough. Do you eat gluten free? They’ll hook you up with gluten-free toast points instead.

The Stuffed French Toast ($17) was

killer. Chocolate babka bread was stuffed with sweet, vanilla cream cheese, coated in crunchy cereal and garnished with chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries. It also came with a side of fennel-maple sausage patties.

My bestie ordered the Smothered Breakfast Bowl ($15) which was a deliciously crafted, deconstructed burrito the size of her head. It was full of chorizo, home fries, scrambled eggs, and pico de gallo. Then, it’s smothered in queso, ranchero sauce, onion, and cilantro.

If it sounds like a mouthful, that’s because it is.

Good Intentions, 1900 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg, or 54th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, Tues., 5-9 p.m., Wed.Thurs., 5-10 p.m., Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat.Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 727-280-6068, goodintentionsfl.com

Good Intentions’ stuffed French toast and homemade maple sausage.

MORGAN BANNO

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.

the gabs

Would You Go to Space?

DRLABRADOR.COM

CERTIFIED

Photos by Cameron Healy

Edie Farst, Gulfport: “I would.”

Shane Michael, Brandon: “Yes.”

Maggi Soluna, St. Pete: “I don’t know if

get off the spaceship

Ray Ard, Gulfport: “Yes, of course.”

Solution

National Park Tour

Solution on page 26

Jeff and Linda Selker decided to take The Gabber Newspaper to Switzerland.

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.

JEFF SELKER

things to do

Community Picnic, Mental Health, and PB&J Run

Thursday, Sept. 21Friday, Sept. 22

I’ll Read What I Want Tampa Bay artists tackle questions about censorship and freedom of expression. Beach Art Center, 1515 Bay Palm Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 727-5964331, beachartcenter.org

Thursday, Sept. 21

Gulfport Library Book Club The Gulfport Public Library’s book club will discuss the classic, Steppenwolf, and other writings by Hermann Hesse. Steppenwolf is available as a print or audio book from the circulation desk. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 2 p.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.evanced.info

Friday, Sept. 22

SHINE: Medicare Basics Ask SHINE all your Medicare questions. This Florida program encourages elders to make informed decisions about their health care coverage. Hear free, unbiased information about Medicare basics from SHINE volunteer counselors. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 1 p.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport. evanced.info

Don’t Quote Me On That! The Dirty John’s crew tells the wacky biography of Claire Bear, your favorite neighborhood lesbian, through stand-up, sketch comedy, and music. Mature audiences only.  The Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 8 p.m. $20. 727-895-6620, thestudioat620.org

Saturday, Sept. 23

Free Museum Day The City of St. Petersburg invites all St. Pete residents to this year’s Arts Alive! Free Museum Day. Explore the city’s most popular museums for free. Participating museums include Imagine Museum (1901 Central Ave.), The

James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art (150 Central Ave.), Museum of Fine Arts (255 Beach Dr. NE), and The Dalí Museum (1 Dalí Blvd.). Each museum has specific guidelines for tickets and reservations.

PB&J Run Are you ready for this jelly? Run or walk in the PB&J Run consisting of 5k and 10k courses in downtown St. Pete. Courses take you along the waterfront, passing the Dalí museum and the Pier. Enjoy unlimited PB&J sandwiches at the PB&J PostRace JAMboree along with music and vendors. Register ahead of time or day of the race. Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Dr. SE, St. Petersburg. 10k at 7 a.m.; 5k at 8:15 a.m. $35-65. 727-524-4464, pbjrun.com

Saturday Morning Yoga Start your Saturday morning with a calming yoga session outside. Join Mindful Movement every Saturday to learn yoga postures, meditation, breathing techniques, and positive affirmations. Bring water and a mat or blanket to use. All are welcome to join. The Woodson African American Museum of Florida, 2240 Ninth Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 9 a.m. 727-3231104, woodsonmuseum.org

Books, Bubbles, and Brunch Join the Woodson’s Books, Bubbles, and Brunch club where this month the group discusses Out of the Darkness of Depression and Into the Spiritual Light by Joyce Nanette Johnson. Talk with the author, an acclaimed local

PB&J RUN

journalist, over brunch and mimosas. Preregistration required. The Woodson African American Museum of Florida, 2240 Ninth Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10:30 a.m. $20. 727-3231104, woodsonmuseum.org

CommUNITY Picnic Come together for the West St. Pete CommUNITY Picnic. This family-friendly event features St. Pete-based food trucks, nonprofits, organizations, and small businesses. St. Pete Police and Fire Rescue will have vehicles for attendees to see and learn about their jobs. Dance with friends to music and play yard games like corn hole and giant Jenga. Bring non-perishable food items and hygiene products to donate. Azalea Park, 1600 72nd St. N., St. Petersburg. 5-8 p.m. 727-893-7441

Sunday, Sept. 24

Annual Aquathon Time to test your strength with this aqua fitness marathon. Complete all three hours of the Aquathon and earn a medal for your hard work. This event promotes the benefits of aqua fitness. Exercise your body in the pool to improve your heart health and muscular endurance. St. Pete Beach Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. 9 a.m. $25. 727-363-9264, stpetebeach.org

Corey Avenue Market  Spend your Sunday morning shopping at the Corey Avenue Sunday Market. Explore more than 80 vendors selling locally crafted and conventional products such as art, baked goods, herbs, lunch bites, plants, and fresh smoothies. Enjoy the live music of local DJs and musicians as you walk around to different vendors.  300 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 25

Keep Calm and Yarn On  Take time for yourself and relax with a weekly knitting and crochet group. Bring any of your current projects, start something new, learn new skills, and meet other crafters.

Don’t worry if you don’t know how to knit or crochet, the group can teach you. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10:1511:30 a.m. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.evanced.info

Mental Health Mondays Give yourself a break from your every day routine every Monday. Community Mental Health and Wellness Mondays open a space for healing and gathering in your community. Experience mindful movement, group culinary workshops, sound bowls, and art therapy with Zaneta Ellison of NewVision Behavioral Health. St. Pete Youth Farm, 1664 12th St. S., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. 727-565-3930, stpeteyouthfarm. com

Tuesday, Sept. 26

The Pink Streets Duo Check out the Rhythmic Exhibits music series featuring the Pink Streets Duo. Experience the powerful voices and flute skills of lead singer Kym, accompa-

nied by her husband. Enjoy music often compared to Janis Joplin and Robert Plant. Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 5-8 p.m. $10. 727-300-1700, eventbrite.com

Full Moon Yoga Give yourself a break with this special full-moon yoga class. Enjoy the healing powers of the moon as you stretch with slowflow vinyasa. Experience gentle core exercise focusing on balance, flexibility, and relaxation. Bring a yoga mat or blanket, water, and snacks. Ocean Fitness Yoga, 2107 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach. 7:30 p.m. $15. 424223-7680, oceanfitnessyoga.com

Wednesday, Sept. 27

Business & Brews Drink, network, and donate to Ovations School of Art. Here’s your opportunity to network business with others over a nice cold beer while also helping a good cause. Mastry’s Brewing Co., 7701 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach. 5:30-7:30 p.m. 727-2028045, mastrysbrewingco.com

Good

Beth-El

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

“St.

CLASSIFIEDS

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965!

Licensed, insured, and bonded; all employees are W2. Free consultation: 727914-7472. Hwcg.com/St-Pete-Beach.com. AHCA #2999995153.

Cleaning / Housekeeping

WE'RE BACKMR. BILL'S

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.

Computer Service

JS COMPUTER REPAIR

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

AC

727-345-3108

Handy Person

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.

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.

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.

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”

(727) 381-ROOF (7663)

4576 10 Ave N., St Petersburg 33713

Family Owned Since 1964

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

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.

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, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & 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.

Lawn & Landscape

YARD CLEAN UP 727-641-9033

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

Trees Cleaned • Bobcat Services

Stump Grinding • Hazardous Limb Removal

Storm and Roof Protection • Insured 727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

LIC#0700008985

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.

Painting

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

Interior & Exterior Painting

(residential and commercial) sod, lighting, large tree and palm installs, and yard cleanups.

sod, tree and installs, and yard cleanups.

Contact: Junglegirlslandscaping@gmail.com Phone: 727-947-2423

Miscellaneous Service

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

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.

Benjamin Apple, Owner 727-280-3110

applepaintingexperts.com

applebenjamin81@gmail.com

License # L23000303923

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.

Professional Services

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

Gulfport Counseling Center Mark Sieg, QS,LCSW, CAP 727-251-2319

marksieg@gulfportcounselingcenter.com

NEW OFFICE 5217 Gulfport Blvd

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.

FEMALE PT CAREGIVER(S) SOUGHT WEEKENDS IN GULFPORT

Seeking 1 or 2 female caregiver(s). Saturday and Sunday 3-5 p.m. and 8:30-9:30 p.m. Private residence in Gulfport. Some personal care. Experience preferred. Non-smoker strongly preferred. Call 404-822-4327.

Yard / Garage Sale

BOUTIQUE YARD SALE

Sat., 9/23 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. 7101 5th Ave N. Clothes, vintage shoes, furniture, toys, holiday decorations, fitness, crystals, oracle cards, cookbooks, puzzles, & more.

General

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 o ers 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!

Accommodations to Share

ROOMMATE NEEDED Looking for roommate for 1375 Pasadena Ave. S., Causeway Village Mobile Home Park, Lot 313. $500 includes everything. 727-420-0701.

Real Estate For Sale 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 or Keller Williams Gulfside Realty: 727439-0800.

2008 Crownline 340 CR $Major Price Reduction

Powered by twin: Mercruiser 350 Mag MPI SeaCore's w/ Bravo III Drives w/ ONLY 690 hours Rare. Gas powered.

All mechanicals have been checked and exercised . Cockpit - functional Wet bar & refrigerator.

Cabin - open salon with forward v-berth, privacy curtains and hanging locker.

Galley - cherry cabinets, Corian countertop with stainless steel sink, built-in microwave oven, electric cook top, and under-counter refrigerator.

Salon - convertible dinette that seats 4-5 and sleeps 1-2. The mid-cabin has a u-shaped lounge that coverts to a double berth and has a hanging locker. An enclosed head compartment includes vanity with sink and shower.

Professional Yacht Sales International 13205 Gulf Blvd Suite B

Madeira Beach, FL, 33708 727-205-0797

Real Estate Sales

Find More Home Sales at thegabber.com. Here’s what homes sold in South Pinellas Sept. 8-14.

Gulfport Real Estate

2775 Kipps Colony Dr., #202 (Pasadena Golf & Yacht Club)

This 1986 condo has two bedrooms, three baths, and 2,460 square feet. It listed for $1,200,000 and sold for $925,000.

2626 Beach Blvd. S. (Waterfront District)

This four-bedroom, three-bath home, built in 1940, has 1,551 square feet. It listed for $597,400 and sold for $575,000.

5831 24th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This 1951 home has three bedrooms, three baths, and 1,491 square feet. It listed and sold for $579,000.

6060 Shore Blvd. S., #910 (Town Shores)

This two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1981, has 1,255 square feet. It listed for $450,000 and sold for $435,000.

2805 Tifton St. S. (Marina)

5731 28th Ave. S. (Waterfront District)

This three-bedroom, three-bath home, built in 2003, has 1,188 square feet. It listed for $670,000 and sold for $650,000.

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1952, has 1,117 square feet. It listed for $399,000 and sold for $385,000.

5317 11th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1955, has 933 square feet. It listed for $320,000 and sold for $285,000.