The Gabber: September 28, 2023

Ghouls, Ghosts, and Goodies

By Amanda Hagood

Calling all cats, dogs, and other Gulfport Pets! The Gulfport Beach Bazaar will sponsor its annual Pet Costume Contest.

It’s fall in Florida! And just because our breeze isn’t exactly crisp and our leaves are… still green, mostly... doesn’t mean

Floridians don’t know how to celebrate this special season! The Gabber Newspaper’s guide will help you fill your trick-or-treat

bag with autumnal experiences, which range from spooky, to sweet, to spirited (literally!).

Spooky continued on page 6

GULFPORT BEACH BAZAAR

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

727-321-6965

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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

Operations

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com

Reporters

Mike Sunnucks, Crime

Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment

Morgan Banno, Food & Dining

Jon Kile, Columnist

Elana Boses, Features

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.

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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.

Paradise is Deadly

Thank you for taking the time to read and review  Paradise is Deadly, the anthology created by the Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime. And thank you, especially for your kind words about my short story, “Small Craft Advisory.”

Proceeds from this collection go to fund our local chapter, so your support of this collection is especially appreciated. Thank you for getting the word out. Happy reading! —Jenna Kernan, author

Fo’Cheezy Review

It’s unfortunate you did not enjoy your experience at Fo’Cheezy.

With two locations, a food truck, as well as three locations inside the Tropicana field, and a third location set to open in Lakeland in March, [and] all the while 2% of sales go to kids of the Bay Area, we appreciate all criticism.

We have loyal patrons that have [been] supporting this company since it launched [in] March during Covid in 2020. Not bad for “fare [sic] food” at best. We will continue to grow and improve as

well as make direct impact in the communities we serve thank you for you patronage. —Robert Hesse, Fo’Cheezy

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.

Council Corner With Ian O’Hara Gulfport’s Ward 4 August Report

By Ian O’Hara

the Catherine Hickman Theater, (an amazing art exhibit!), and the Gecko Ball.

I voted on the first reading of the budget and voted on the first reading of millage rate decrease.

We had to cancel our South 49th Street Business and Neighborhood District meeting due to Hurricane Idalia. Next meeting will be Monday, Oct. 2 at the 49th Street Neighborhood Center.

In addition, I would like to thank:

All the city employees, for working so diligently on the preparation for the storm as well as the post storm cleanup.

The former Gecko Queens and I would like to thank Justin Shea and Kristen Ossola for their hard work.

Free smoke detectors are available for elderly and low-income households; contact: 727-893-1059

Take a look at Gulfport Community Update weekly, Fridays after 4 p.m. This is where you can find all the information about what is going on in each City department. For example: police encounters and community events.

City-wide yard sale registration started Sept. 18.

I have office hours every Friday from 2-4 p.m. at City Hall.

Hello neighbors, I attended two city council meetings, held four office hours, and had four meetings with the city manager.

I had six meetings with constituents in office, and eight out of the office.

I attended one Tiger Bay meeting, Julie Armstrong’s opening at

Our constituents, for taking the storm seriously and being mindful of the effects of Hurricane Idalia.

All the candidates for Gecko Queen, and our new Gecko Queen Robert “Bob” Daunch.

The Gulfport Merchants Chamber and the Gala leaders, Aimee Kosta, Jennifer Gallo-Lee, Melissa Helmbold, Heather DiFisio, Nancy Early, Erin East, John Haugan (amazingly wonderful ball and great theme).

If you have any questions or quandaries, you can reach me at: 727-851-8310 (cell), 727-866-7355 (office), or iohara@mygulfport.us

Sincerely your neighbor and councilman, Ian O’Hara

“Becoming fearless isn’t the point, that’s impossible! It’s learning how to control your fear and how to be free from it.” —Victor Hugo

EAGLE FINEGAN

Short but Sweet 13-Minute Gulfport City Council Meeting

By Patrick Heinzen

This week, we seek to answer the age-old question: Is 13 minutes enough? Well, for the Gulfport City Council, it was.

While the council generally meets every first and third Tuesday of the month, last week’s meeting was held on a Monday (Sept. 18). The meeting began like every other, but with a distinct lack of residents in attendance. Following the invocation by Vice Mayor Paul Ray (Ward III) and the Pledge of Allegiance, the meeting began.

Let’s Talk About Taxes

The first two items on the agenda were both second readings of previously discussed items. First, the council once again unanimously approved the Ad Valorem Tax Levy for the upcoming fiscal year, from Oct. 1, 2023 to Sept. 30, 2024.

This means that the tax millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year will increase by 13.13%, to 4.0258 mills. For every $1,000 of household value, the homeowner will owe about $4.03 in taxes. The reason for this increase is because of a 14.29% total increase in Gulfport house value over the previous

year. Overall, these taxes will raise an additional $6,005,315 in tax revenue.

“The millage rate for fiscal year 2024 is proposed to be set at 4.0258 mills. This represents a 13.13% increase above the rolledback rate of 3.5587 mills. The rolled-back rate is the millage rate that will generate the same amount of property tax revenue as approved for the prior tax year,” the agenda memo read.

A rolled back millage rate, according to the Florida Department of Revenue, refers to “the amount of property taxes the property owner would owe if there were no change to the taxing authority’s budget.”

Gulfport Operating Budget

After a quick vote, the council moved on to talking about the operating budget for the upcoming year. Despite the previous discussion of this ordinance receiving multiple comments from the public, the only speaker was Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I). Thanos reiterated her concerns with the budget, and how it would

lead to issues in the future.

“I only want to put one person in the budget for the Historical Museum [sic],” said Thanos. “If we keep the budget the way it is now, changes can happen with no discussion, and I don’t want to see that happen.”

Following this, City Manager Jim O’Reilly invited Gulfport Finance Director Cheryl Hannafin up to the stand, so the council could thank her for her work. After nine years of service, Hannafin is moving on as the director of finance, back into the private sector. Her final major project was to develop the working budget, which was once again approved, with a no only from Thanos.

Finally, the council approved a $45,000 budget for anticipated temporary labor in the sanitation division for the upcoming year. The City faced an increased turnover rate in the Maintenance Worker II position, which requires funding for filling the position for the upcoming year. This position is the person who is responsible for standing on the back of the sanitation vehicle to assist with garbage and recycling collection.

On Sept. 18, the 13-minute Gulfport City Council meeting discussed taxes and budgets.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Spooky continued from cover

Ghost Stories Multimedia show capturing the spooky spirit and tale-telling tendencies of the Fall season. Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Sept. 1-Oct. 21. 727-821-7391, floridacraftart.org.

Boo String Art A spooky take on Gulfport Public Library’s monthly adult craft: Participants will use wood, nails, and embroidery floss to create a Halloween sign. Registration required. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. Oct. 4. 727-893-1074 , mygulfport.us/gpl.

Hocus Focus Kids and grownups alike will enjoy the more-creative-thancreepy Erie Eyeball scavenger hunt at St. Pete’s premier immersive arts experience. The Fairgrounds St. Pete, 2606 Fairfield Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Oct. 5-Nov. 6. fairgrounds.art.

Nightsweat A ritzy girls’ weekend organized by a canceled celebrity housewife goes hilariously wrong when it gets swept up in the hunt for the Berkshire Strangler in this comic thriller. freeFall Theatre, 60999 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Oct. 6-Nov. 5. 727-498-5205, freefalltheatre.com.

Spirit Messages with Elissa Wilds

Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. Oct. 7. unityofgulfport.org.

St. Pete Pier Fall Festival Welcome

Fall the St. Pete way – with live music, family-friendly activities, and food. Then roam the rustically charming pumpkin patch and pick the perfect gourd to take home!

Catherine Hickman

Join Florida Medium Elissa Wilds as she connects with your loved ones on the “other side,” bringing messages of hope and healing.

Pumpkin Patch is open Oct. 7-15. 600 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. Oct. 7-8. stpetefallfest.com.

FEARville A haunted hayride, a haunted house, and the Oddville Circus of the Strange and Macabre are just a few of the features you’ll find at DK Farms & Gardens’ Halloween spectacular, best for visitors 14 years and up. Come back during the day for pony rides, a pumpkin patch, and more all-ages autumnal fun. DK Farms & Gardens, 1750 Lake Ave. SE, Largo. Oct. 12-14, 20-21, 27-28, & 31. 727-348-0818, dkfarmsandgardens. com/fall

Hauntizaar The original Halloween and Day of the Dead Indie Art Market in the Tampa Bay Area. Creepy vendors, weird wares, and tarot card readings. The Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Oct. 14. 727-895-6620, thestudioat620.org.

Candlelight St. Petersburg: Halloween Classics Hear your favorite fright tunes — from Danse Macabre to Thriller to the theme song from Stranger Things — played by the Listeso String Quartet by candlelight. First Baptist Church, 1900 Gandy Blvd. N., St. Petersburg. Oct. 14. feverup.com.

TASCO’s Field of Screams features a “Beyond the Bayou” theme this year, Oct. 27-29 & 31. Expect murky waters and haunting legends!

ST. PETERSBURGS PARKS AND RECREATION

Halloween Golf Tournament Come tee up for this spook-tacular scramble tournament. Proceeds from this year’s tournament will benefit the Treasure Island Madeira Beach Hand Up Committee, serving the food insecure in Pinellas County. Bardmoor Golf & Tennis, 8001 Cumberland Road, Seminole. Oct. 13. 727-3604121, timbchamber.org/golf-tournament.

AMAZING FOOD & CRAFT BEER

Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six Tombolo Books presents a new book club for lovers of the Bay Area’s favorite thriller writer, Lisa Unger! Meet up with other fans and hear the author discuss her newest title. Tickets required, and include refreshments and a copy of the book. Coastal Creative, 2201 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Oct. 19. 727-755-9456, tombolobooks.com.

Gulfport Beach Bazaar Pumpkin Contest

Bring your gourd of choice, your carving tools, stencils, and paints, and get ready to compete! Prizes will be given for spookiest, best painted, most creative, and kids’ category pumpkins. Snacks will be served!  Gulfport Beach Bazaar, 3115 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. Oct 20. 727-381-8548, facebook.com/GulfportBeachBazaar

Gulfport Haunted Walking Tour Discover the shady side of our sunny little village as you visit Gulfport’s most haunted sites on this delightfully spooky walking tour. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. Oct. 20, 24, and 29. gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

Gulfport Beach Bazaar Halloween Pet Costume Contest All domestic animals are welcome to compete in this furrr-ightening competition. Owners, too – there’s a pet/owner look-alike contest! Cost to enter is a $10 donation to benefit Gulfport Get Rescued.  Gulfport Beach Bazaar, 3115 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. Oct. 21. 727-381-8548, facebook.com/GulfportBeachBazaar.

Toddler Storytime Spook-tacular Littles and their bigs are welcome for Halloween-themed stories, songs, and movement followed by trickor-treating around the library. Don’t forget your costume! Storytime sesSpooky continued on page 8

Stroll on down to the Witches of Gulfport Parade and Dance to see your magically gifted neighbors...parade and dance! Or better still, don your broom and your point hat and join in the fun.

WITCHES OF GULFPORT PARADE AND DANCE

Spooky continued from page 7 sions begin at 10:15 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. Oct. 26. 727893-1074, mygulfport.us/gpl

Trunk or Treat The City of St. Pete Beach brings trunk or treating to Horan Park. Don’t forget the costumes! Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. Oct. 26. 727-3672735, stpetebeach.org.

I Put A Spell On You Sara DelBeato, Ann Morrison, Ericka Womack, and Resident Music Director Michael Raabe bring you an evening of covers and monster mash-ups of your favorite Halloween inspired hits. Simply mesmerizing! freeFall Theatre, 60999 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Oct.27. 727-498-5205, freefalltheatre.com.

Field of Screams TASCO’s Halloween tradition returns with a “Beyond the Bayou” theme. Embark on an immersive journey through an eerie landscape of twisted gardens, murky waters, and haunting legends. Pinellas

Pioneer Settlement at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 3010 31st St. S., St. Petersburg. Oct. 27-29 & 31. 727-892-5060, stpeteparksrec.org/fieldofscreams

Trick or Treat Trail Treasure Island offers a howling good time for little ghouls and goblins, including a costume contest, interactive entertainers, goody bags, trick-or-treating, inflatables, and more. Treasure Bay Golf, Tennis, & Recreation Center, 10315 Paradise Blvd., Treasure Island. Oct. 28. 727-547-4575, timbchamber. org.

Halloween Bash Join your Gulfport neighbors for a trunk-or-treat, games, costume contest, and haunted house. Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport. Oct. 28. 727-893-1068, mygulfport. us/recreation/rec.

Witches of Gulfport Parade and Dance Grab your pointy hat and broom and fly off to downtown Gulf-

port for the sixth annual gathering of local witches, ghouls, and goblins. Parade begins at 6:15 p.m. at Drunken Taco and ends with a rousing dance and costume contest at Tiki Bar & Grill. Tiki Bar & Grill, 5519 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport. Oct. 28. facebook. com/events/2459806454177706.

Halloween on Central St. Petersburg’s largest open-air Halloween event features 130 Tampa Bay makers, food trucks, and small businesses – plus candy stations; witch walk and dance; strolling skeletons; and kid crafts! Central Avenue between MLK (9th) Street and 31st Street, St. Petersburg. Oct. 29. halloweenoncentral.com.

Babytime Boofest Make an adorable footprint ghost with your little ones 2 years and younger (older siblings also welcome). Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. Oct. 31. 727-893-1074, mygulfport.us/gpl.

St. Pete Pier transforms into an autumnal wonderland this October, complete with a pumpkin patch.

VISIT

ST. PETE CLEARWATER

Taxes, Loud Music, and City Manager St. Pete Beach Board of Commissioners Meeting

By The Gabber Staff

At the most recent commission meeting, St. Pete Beach taxes, millage, music, and city managers were on the docket. Here’s the basics from the meeting.

Excessively Loud Music at Red, White & Booze

This year, the Pass-a-Grille restaurant and bar (formerly known as Sea Critters) received a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a new Class-A dock. Red, White & Booze planned live music for several days and nights a week.

On July 6, the City rescinded the CUP for Red, White & Booze. The reason? Excessively loud music. Commissioners welcomed public discussion to resolve the issue.

Residents expressed aggravations and complaints about the loud music. A few employees stated “it wasn’t that loud” in support of the live music.

Retired police officer Bob Nicklaus said that sound over water is always amplified. He agreed that the music was too loud.

“70 decibels is too much,” he said. “It causes hearing loss.”

According to commissioners, the sound control responsibility should be in the hands of ownership and the manager on duty. Commissioner Chris Marone said he wants the manager to keep a “lockbox” on the sound equipment.

Commissioners agreed to reinstate the CUP with noise and hourly restrictions.

City Manager Alex Rey

Throughout the Sept. 11 meeting, it became clear that City Manager Alex Rey would no longer serve as such. Commissioners had little to say publicly.

Vice Mayor Mark Grill explained to The Gabber Newspaper that the commissioners and Rey had come to a mutual agreement that Rey’s contract would not be renewed.

Grill said Rey no longer works for the City as of Oct. 4.

The City has reached out to former City Manager Wayne Saunders to “help us out in an interim capacity.” Hopefully, the City can continue with business as usual.

St. Pete Beach Taxes and Millage Rate

Additionally, Rey announced that the millage rate for the City of St. Pete Beach remained flat for the last six years.

“All the work that has gone into the budget process since March of this year was reviewed twice by the budget committee,” he said.

The rolled-back millage rate is 2.7327. The 2024 millage rate is 3.1500.

According to the Florida Department of Revenue, a rolled-back millage rate refers to “the amount of property taxes the property owner would owe if there were no change to the taxing authority’s budget.”

One mil equals one dollar for every $1,000 of assessed value. For example, a home valued at $100,000 with a millage rate of 4 mils will owe $400 in taxes.

Commissioners at St. Pete Beach talked taxes, loud music, budget trimming, and City Manager Alex Rey’s departure.

MONROE ROARK

New City Attorney and Property Taxes

Madeira Beach Board of Commissioners Meeting

By The Gabber Staff

In Madeira Beach, the end of this fiscal year signifies time for change. At the Sept. 13 commission meeting, the commission voted on a millage rate roll back and a new city attorney.

Property Values and Taxes Go Up

For 2023, the fiscal year rolled-back millage rate is 2.4272. For 2024, the fiscal year millage rate is 2.7500 mills per $1,000.

According to the Florida Department of Revenue, a rolled-back millage rate refers to “the amount of property taxes the property owner would owe if there were no change to the taxing authority’s budget.”

One mil equals one dollar for every $1,000 of assessed value. For example, a home valued at $100,000 with a millage rate of 4 mils will owe $400 in taxes.

The numbers represent a flat millage rate from year to year. However, the rise in property values also created a potential rise in property taxes.

Commissioners approved of Ordinance 2023-31 on first reading with a 5-0 vote. It had a second reading on Sept. 27.

Discussion on City Attorney Selection

In spite of emails and public appearances from around 100 residents, it was a small turnout for this final decision.

Regarding city attorney candidates, commissioners kept the con-

test between two individuals. Commissioner Eddie McGeehen said it would be an “embarrassment to the City” to put the Request for Qualifications back out on bids.

After the dust settled from interviews held at the last meeting, commissioners voted 4-1 to maintain a six-year status quo and re-appoint interim Attorney Thomas Trask as full-time city attorney. Only Mayor Jim Rostek voted against the appointment.

Attorney’s Accomplishments

The two attorneys interviewed for the position were Thomas Trask of Trask, Daignault, LLC and Sarah Johnston of Weiss, Serota, Helfman, Cole and Bierman.

When asked what Trask’s greatest accomplishments were in his tenure as Madeira Beach City Attorney, he answered:

“I was particularly proud of the project where Caddy’s is now,” Trask said.

Trask referred to his involvement in a permitting project for a restaurant with no parking. In order to open the restaurant, the number of parking spots had to be in accord with city ordinances and fire code.

Recently, the adjacent park — Tom and Kitty Stuart Park — recently received renovations, causing confusion about whether or not the park lost space to Caddy’s. The renovations included removing some palm trees to add different landscaping, a beach shower, and a bathroom trailer.

Tom and Kitty Stuart Park

Tom and Kitty Stuart Park was deeded to the City of Madeira Beach by the two residents for whom the City named it. Both were active in city functions and beautification.

The deed read: “This deed is made and accepted on the condition that the land hereby conveyed be used and maintained solely as the site of a City Park to be named, ‘The Tom and Kitty Stuart Park’ and that the grantee, its heirs and assigns shall forever use and maintain in good condition the premises solely for the purpose of a City Park.”

Commissioners voted on a new Madeira Beach City Attorney and property taxes.

MONROE ROARK

Hate Crime in Treasure Island

Homophobic Slurs and Service Denied at 7-Eleven

By Mike Sunnucks

A trip to a 7-Eleven  for milk and ice cream turned into a hate crime and anti-LGBTQ+ experience, according to a Treasure Island woman.

On Sept. 12, Priscilla Rutherford-McLeod said the Treasure Island 7-Eleven denied her service, called her derogatory homophobic slurs, and told to leave.

Rutherford-McLeod is a LGBTQ+ pastor and operates an animal rescue.

This 7-Eleven convenience store is on Gulf Boulevard near 95th Avenue and Blind Pass Road.

In a Facebook post, Rutherford-McLeod said she approached the counter to buy ice cream and candy for her wife. The employee told her “after thinking about it, I’ve decided to deny you service. Leave the store you f****** f******. I don’t serve f****** f******[derogatory slur].”

She said the convenience store clerk was an aggressive woman. Another man, who seemed friendly toward the clerk, came into the store during the incident, which made her worry more for her safety.

Rutherford-McLeod recalled the woman yelling with her body “half way over the counter.”

“We don’t serve your kind,” the woman said, according to Rutherford-McLeod.

Rutherford-McLeod has gone to this location every day for the past two years. That night, she left the store without her purchases because she was afraid.

But she vowed not let the incident go unchecked.

She said her and wife had a previous run-in with the woman when they lived on 119th Avenue. Rutherford-McLeod claimed that woman threatened

to cut them during an neighborhood incident in February. The Treasure Island police officer who responded to the scene said the verbal altercation did not warrant charges.

Treasure Island 7-Eleven Hate Crime Reported

Rutherford-McLeod filed complaints with the Better Business Bureau, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and 7-Eleven relating to the refusal of service.

“7-Eleven is looking into this incident and will address it with the independent business owner that operates this store,” 7-Eleven, Inc. said in a statement to The Gabber Newspaper “An inclusive environment is critical for customers, store associates, and

franchisees, to ensure everyone who visits 7-Eleven stores are treated fairly and with respect.”

Treasure Island Mayor Tyler Payne did not respond to a requests for comment on the incident but the City issued a statement to The Gabber Newspaper.

“This is a situation with 7-Eleven and that customer, not with the City. They will need to work that out between them. The City has received no complaints. We are a welcoming City to all,” said Jason Besiel, public information officer for Treasure Island.

Rutherford-McLeod was a pastor in Michigan and continues her spiritual work in Florida. She also operates Foxy Fossils, a nonprofit animal rescue group, and lists herself as reiki healer on her Facebook page.

Rutherford-McLeod feels the need to speak up so LGBTQ+ people are not mistreated at the store and other establishments. She also said she has some compassion and mercy from the incident.

“We are people just like you and please don’t let anger and hate ruin your life,” she said. “I know the world is full of broken people.”

Priscilla Rutherford-McLeod said she was mistreated and denied service at a Treasure Island 7-Eleven because of her sexual orientation.

PRISCILLA RUTHERFORD-MCLEOD

according to gulfport

Live Music, Non-Alcoholic Beer, and Weather Random Quotes from Gulfportians

By Chris Shablak

What a difference three degrees makes.

—Isi Bergert, on temperatures this week

“Athletic Lite is a helluva non-alcoholic beer.” —Jimmy Totten, tasting a beer at the North End Tap House

“I kinda miss the snowbirds.” —Paul Toffer, at the Gulfport condos

“What if life was really like a box of chocolates?” —Christopher Stanley, at trivia night

“The live music in this town makes it so special.” —Mike Sperry, from Chicago, at Gulfport’s open mic night

DRV Gallery, Friends of Strays, and Kelly’s Roast Beef Stay Up-to-Date with Pinellas Businesses

By The Gabber Staff

Kelly’s Roast Beef

Kelly’s Roast Beef opened. Kelly’s new location in South Pasadena is next to Orange Groves Winery. Try their medium-rare roast beef sandwiches, New England clam chowder, lobster rolls, fresh seafood platters, and whole-belly fried clams.

Most New Englanders already know Kelly’s, but Floridians learn fast that this is some of the best roast beef and seafood around. Beloved on the North Shore of Massachusetts for the past 72 years, Kelly’s Roast Beef expanded into Florida.

1530 Pasadena Ave. S., South Pasadena. 727-231-1961, kellysroastbeef. com

Friends of Strays

St. Petersburg’s oldest no-kill shelter turned 45 years old this month.

In 1978, a group of volunteers biked around their neighborhoods, tending to stray cats and taking them in to later find them new homes. With the help of those volunteers, Pinellas County now has Friends of Strays Animal Shelter, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

For the past 45 years, the shelter expanded its “programming to take in dogs in 2000, hire a fulltime veterinarian, develop practic-

es for TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return).”

The shelter celebrated its birthday and dedication to the community Sept. 26 at Grand Central Brewhouse.

Gallery Artists

DRV Gallery announced two new artists to the studio gallery; Dawn Waters and Rebecca Skelton will have their works on display. Waters is a self-taught artist who began making fiber paintings in 2017. She spent most of her life in Virginia before moving to Gulfport. She received first place awards in Florida CraftArt’s 2021 Member’s Show and

in Fearless Fiber at Carrollwood Cultural Center in Tampa.

Skelton’s work has been collected, exhibited, and published since 1974. She taught art classes at University of Tampa, St. Petersburg College, USF St. Petersburg, HCC Ybor, and Eckerd College as well as for the Morean Arts Center, Creative Clay, Youth Arts Corps, and the Dalí Museum.

5401 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport. Read our preview of the show, p. 18.

All Florida Orthopaedic Associates

All Florida Orthopaedic announced a new doctor to the associate’s team. Dr. Jonathan Brown, DPM, an accomplished and dedicated podiatrist who began seeing patients out of his office.

Brown began his healthcare career as a combat medic in the United States Army. Throughout his career, he provided specialized podiatric care in various roles within the United States Navy.

Schedule an appointment with Brown if you have any concerns regarding food or ankle pain, lower extremity numbness, bunions, tendinitis, heel pain, gout, wound care, ingrown toenails, and fungus.

4423 Central Ave., St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg’s oldest no-kill shelter turned 45 years old this month.

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

Where Can I Park My Boat?

A Reader Asks About The Dinghy Dock

By The Gabber Staff

Question: The Gulfport dinghy dock was damaged by Hurricane Idalia. What are people who are moored in the Bay supposed to do since they’re not allowed to park their dinghy at the marina or Williams Pier?

Answer: The Gabber Newspaper got in contact with Gulfport City Manager Jim O’Reilly to ask about this issue.

“A non-registered boater may not leave their dinghy at the Marina for any length of time or overnight due to the impact on paid slip renters/residents’ on the City’s security commitments,” said O’Reilly.

While this is the case, O’Reilly explained how an individual boater can rent and occupy a space at the marina for $2.50 per foot per day. This rental will allow boaters to have access to a temporary se-

curity fob and the marina’s accommodations. While this is available, the Marina Director of Operations Dennis Frain has not received any inquiries into this process.

During the hurricane a boat washed a shore, significantly damaging the Casino’s dinghy dock.

Hurricane Idalia also caused damage to Williams Pier, which is under repair. While the dinghy dock will be repaired relatively quickly, the wind and water from the storm caused significant damage to the Casino’s main dock, which needs more substantial repairs.

Readers wanted to know the status of the Gulfport dinghy dock and where liveaboards can dock while it is out of service.

MONROE ROARK

Barry Bostwick is in Town Making Pottery, ‘Rocky Horror’, and Selling His Underwear

By Cathy Salustri

The next time you’re kicking yourself that you missed ArtJones Studio Tour (this year Dec. 2-3, with 11 studios and 29 Gulfport artists) — or if you wish you could find more Florida artists working in home studios — check out the Off the Beaten Path art tour in Central Florida.

If you do, you’ll meet Barry Bostwick.

That’s because the actor most people remember best as Brad Majors in Rocky Horror Picture Show is also a potter.

See What’s on the Slab

“I have a studio in Eustis. I’m part of the Off the Beaten Path art tour every year, where people come and visit our studios,” Bostwick says. The tour typically showcases 16-18 artists, he says.

Bostwick’s made pottery for more than three decades.

“I was taught by a Japanese master potter at UCLA years ago, so my sensibilities are always more in Japanese shapes and textures and colors and Wabi-Sabi attitude,” he says. “It’s fun; it gives you energy. I don’t really sell myself; it’s more a labor of love for me.”

Bostwick and his wife Sherri moved to Mount Dora to live closer to her mother.

“We abandoned California,” he says. “My wife was bright enough to say, ‘Why don’t we move closer to my mother and buy a house there?’,” he explains.

His mother-in-law died last year, but the Bostwicks stayed.

“We love it here,” he says.

He’ll leave Mount Dora — for the day, at least — and head to downtown St. Pete, where he’ll help celebrate the film that launched him into the cultural zeitgeist: The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Barry Bostwick has layers: Meet the potter, the man who played Danny Zucco before John Travolta, and the Rocky Horror star who sells his underwear at conventions.

VIA THE MAHAFFEY

What Have You Done With Brad?

RHPS fans may or may not know Bostwick had a career before he did the Time Warp.

“I created the part of Danny Zucco in Grease on Broadway,” Bostwick says. “I jokingly say I played John Travolta before John Travolta became John Travolta.”

That made it easy for Bostwick to jump to the left into the cast of RHPS, which hit theaters in 1975.

“I had a history of musicals and rock musicals in New York on the stage. It sort of was in my wheelhouse. I had done some television and some independent features. This was sort of a one-off job, It was like the extension of an off-off Broadway play,” he says, “that I was very comfortable with.”

Great Scott

Despite his history of musical theater, Bostwick never played Brad Majors in the Richard O’Brien’s musical, Rocky Horror Show

“And I wouldn’t want to. Because now the audience yells at you live on stage. It went from being just in the movie theater, where we were just being celluloidal, and we didn’t have to react. And the people who do it onstage, all of sudden the audience feels the right to interrupt them,” he says. “The spontaneity of that frightens me. I don’t know if I could keep up with the witticisms and inane comments thrown at an actor who is just trying to do his job, dammit.”

After a lengthy, successful career, does he resent that most of the English-speaking world likely associates his name and face with a cult classic showcasing cross-dressing, sexual exploration, and sexual freedom?

“No,” he answers without hesitation. “I’ve done a lot of things and I don’t think anything has been as meaningful from a societal and political [perspective]. I think the movie has changed lives, not just entertainment.”

How so?

“I think people who are on the fence about their sexuality or abil-

ity to engage in the world, it became a funhouse for the misfits; the people who didn’t belong to the chess club or the band club — they joined the Rocky Horror club, on a quest to live a genuine life and discover who they really are by seeing something so radical as this. I think it knocks them out of a ‘I’ve got to be one way or another’ place.”

It’s Not Easy Having a Good Time

For all the times an outcast plunked down cash for a movie ticket ($2 in 1975; $11 today), hurled toast at the movie screen, and did the Time Warp in the aisle, Bostwick’s made no residuals. He earned $10,000 for his role as Brad Majors. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $59,000.

That, he says, is “one of the reasons we’re not that nervous about it [working as an actor promoting a movie during the SAG-AFTRA strike]; we never got any residuals. It was done, made, way before those kinds of things existed.”

“It’s still part of my life; part of my heart. I have no regrets,” he says. “I’ve luckily been able to make a living without The Rocky Horror Picture Show being my income.”

That’s not to say he doesn’t make some money off his role as Brad Majors.

“I do the occasional convention,”

he says. “At some conventions I’ll sell my underwear; my tighty whiteys.”

And what’s the going rate for Barry Bostwick’s underwear?

“50 bucks each,” he says. “It’s helping put our kids through college. My side hustle is my underwear.”

Don’t Dream It — See It

While he won’t be there in his BVDs — “those days are over,” he says — you can meet Barry Bostwick when he introduces the shadow cast at The Rocky Horror Picture Show Friday, Sept. 29. There’s also a VIP meet-andgreet where he’ll sign autographs (BYOBVDs, please) and chat with fans.

“It’s just a party; everybody gets together. There’s usually a lot virgins. So we go through a lot of lipsticks, putting Vs on foreheads. It’s a passage into our club and it’s three generations later, and to me, it’s an astonishing evening seeing grandparents bringing their grandchildren to it, introducing them to it, and kids who you know have snuck out of the back door of their house... they come into the theater and it changes their lives,” he says, laughs, and adds: “and then they have to sneak home again.”

The Rocky Horror Picture Show Featuring Barry Bostwick The Mahaffey, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. Sept. 29, 8 p.m. $39-$53; $153, VIP. 727-300-2000, themahaffey. com

TESA Exhibition DRV Gallery Opens For a Full Fall Season

By Amanda Hagood

It’s been just short of a year since entrepreneur and painter Deserie Valloreo opened DRV Fine Art Studios & Gallery in Gulfport, at the corner of 54th Street South and Gulfport Boulevard. After a booming first year, followed by a summer hiatus to regroup and plan for the coming season, her assessment is clear.

“I couldn’t have picked a better place,” she says.

New Artists Featured

The Gallery, which aims to provide a space where artists can connect with art enthusiasts and collectors, now hosts three studio spaces and showcases the work of 10 Florida artists (including Valloreo). Two artists — fiber painter Dawn Waters and abstract painter and sculptor Rebecca Skelton — will expand the gallery’s repertoire this season.

Ambling down the aisles on DRV’s opening day last week, I found myself intrigued by Skelton’s painting, “Watched and Whispered,” which juxtaposes two seated nudes surrounded by eerily disembodied eyes, lips, and hands. In warm copper tones, the image offered a striking statement about vulnerability, whether under the gaze of others, or under our own unrelenting self-scrutiny.

Waters, on the other hand, specializes in portraiture. With fiber, she forms gently dimensional felted faces and hyperrealistic hair textures to create subjects that hold your gaze and pull you inward. It was all I could do, in fact, to keep my 7-year old son from trying to pet the kitten that a felted Johnny Cash was snuggling in Waters’s portrait “Cash Is King.”

The Exhibiting Society of Artists (TESA) Exhibition

DRV Gallery will also host its first show of the season, featuring work from members of The Exhibiting

Society of Artists (TESA). Fifteen artists will be represented in media as varied as watercolor, photography, and digital painting. In a press release from DRV Gallery, Valloreo explains, “The TESA exhibition is an ideal way for me to introduce our gallery community to the works of arists they may not have experienced before.”

The TESA exhibition will open with a reception on Thursday, Sept. 28th, from 6-8 p.m. at DRV Gallery. The show runs through Oct. 21.

Can I Get Your Autograph?

And that’s only the start of a season that will, Valloreo says, include

a new art show, an art class, and a concert at the gallery each month. Getting all that planned has taken some effort.

“It’s been a busy summer,” she quips.

But the Gulfport community, she avows, has been supportive. A little more than a year ago, she recalls, she was still staffing a booth at the Gulfport Tuesday Market while also preparing to open DRV. One morning, her Gulfport customers kept showing up with their copies of that week’s The Gabber Newspaper — the one that featured a story about the soon-to-open gallery.

“The wanted me to sign them,” she beams.

Harriet Godbole’s “Dancing on the Edge” (watercolor on yupo paper) captures a fleeting scene and fragile beauty from the Florida coastline.

HARRIET GODBOLE

It was all I could do, in fact, to keep my 7-year old son from trying to pet the kitten that a felted Johnny Cash was snuggling in Waters’s portrait “Cash Is King.”

Juices and Smoothies Beat the Heat at Playa Bowls

By Morgan Banno

I am not a fan of chain restaurants and I seldom spend my money where food is franchised. As a [wife of a] small business owner and restauranteur, I like to support local whenever I eat out. But this time, I went off-script. I stumbled over Playa Bowls merely by accident while researching another food project.

I was intrigued by their menu, curious about their ingredients, and blown away by their marketing. Most of all, I loved their pineapple theme. (If you know me intimately, you’re smiling as you read this. And no, I’m not a swinger.) As a chef, pineapples are my spirit food. And if reincarnation is real, I hope to someday come back as a pineapple plant. So, I couldn’t resist checking out a restaurant in St. Pete Beach whose tagline is, “Welcome to Pineappleland.”

Why Playa Bowls

Playa Bowls was founded by a surfing duo whose worldwide travels inspired their massive menu of mix-and-match ingredients for bowls, smoothies and fresh juices. Jumping on the açaí food wagon, Playa is known for their blended smoothie bowls featuring fresh fruits, homemade granola, protein powders, and sweet garnishes. Choose from a blended base of banana, açaí, pitaya, kale, coconut, or oatmeal. I opted for an Electric Mermaid bowl ($13) — a blindingly-bright, magenta-colored bowl with blended pitaya (dragonfruit), granola, kiwi, pineapple, mango, coconut flakes, and honey. It burst with as much flavor as it did color. I also tore up a Coco Craze bowl ($12) with blended raw coconut, banana and coconut milk, topped with granola, mango, banana, pineapple, honey, and more coconut. Holy hell it was good.

By no means would I tout these bowls as ‘healthy.’ For instance,

Playa’s granola is made under their own label but has 27 grams of added sugars — as much as an 8-ounce regular RedBull. But it’s delicious.

Since the bowls are huge, I froze all of my leftovers and used them in my morning smoothie. And if it’s game day, I add rum. After all, if a Bloody Mary is a socially acceptable breakfast, why not a liquor-laced pitaya bowl?

Juices and Smoothies

In addition to bowls, Playa offers a variety of smoothies, from sweet to green and everything in between. Whether you’re vanilla and like a traditional fruit smoothie or you step outside the box with kale, matcha and spirulina, the selection is vast.

Jazz up your smoothie or bowl with a myriad of extra add-ons including bee pollen, wheat grass, goji berries, and hemp seeds ($12 each). I opted for a 20-oz Green Smoothie ($9.99) with kale, pineapple, banana and coconut milk. Yum. (It didn’t taste like the bottom of a lawnmower, either!) There’s also small selection of fresh juices that are fantastic. I sampled the Endless Summer ($9.99) with carrot and fresh ginger and loved every drop it.

If you’re jonesing for something light and fresh or you want a quick cool-off from the beach, Playa Bowls has you covered. Go crazy and eat the rainbow!

Playa Bowls, 4655 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, Open daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 727-256-0327, playabowls.com

Eat the rainbow at Playa Bowls in St. Pete Beach.

MORGAN BANNO

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pets

Teardrop Your tears will drop once you meet Teardrop because she is so cute. This 10-month old domestic shorthair mix is a true fighter. After several surgeries, Teardrop is all better! She is sweet and sassy, ready to play and enjoy her life.

Dennis Are you in need of a partner in crime? Dennis is your guy. Dennis is a 11-month old domestic shorthair mix who is a purring ball of affection. He is a vocal and playful kitty who would love to be your buddy.

Friends of Strays, 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily for adoptions. For all of their adoptable pets, visit friendsofstrays.org.

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

FRIENDS OF STRAYS

Sunday Shopping Spree

Vintage Clothing Stores in Pinellas

By Cameron Healy

As someone who may have a slight shopping addiction, I love spending my Sunday mornings shopping for vintage clothes. I’m always on the hunt for secondhand shirts, shorts, and shoes to add to my closet.

Here are my top three vintage clothing shops in Pinellas.

Second Worn

A newer store to the Pinellas vintage community, but they bring some heat.

Second Worn curates a wide selection of vintage and streetwear clothing. Customers can find men’s, wom-

en’s, and unisex clothes all around the store. It doesn’t just stop there; customers can buy hats, posters, scarves, and sneakers for a low price.

For the vintage girlies out there who might not be into streetwear, don’t worry — Second Worn has a women’s section full of baby tees, mini skirts, and cute Y2K pieces.

7410 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach. Tues.-Fri., 12-7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.6 p.m.

Full Court Classics

Almost two years ago, Full Court moved into their Central Avenue lo-

cation from Clearwater. It’s dangerous for my bank account, though, because it takes me 15 minutes to drive over there now rather than 45 minutes.

This is definitely the spot for all streetwear and skateboarding attire. Full Court somehow always finds the holy grail of vintage T-shirts. Along with that, their men’s and women’s shoe selection and prices will never let you down.

The women’s section here is only one rack, so most of the clothes you’ll find are more unisex.

1016 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Mon.-Thurs., 12-7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Wendy’s Closet

This may be the most chaotic store you can walk into, but I promise you will find something unique in here. Employees are all around the ginormous store, I suggest finding one and asking where certain clothes are, because you will be confused and lost in there all day.

Wendy’s Closet has something for actually everybody. I wish I was kidding. Please, someone buy one of their thousands of cowboy boots. Those shoes deserve to see the light of day.

Wendy herself will most likely assist you during your shopping adventure. She knows exactly where everything is, and she will hype you up when you find what you like.

2107 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Thurs.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Out of my top three vintage clothing stores in Pinellas, this includes Full Court Classics on Central Avenue.

CAMERON HEALY

Favorite Late-Night Snack?

Photos by Cameron Healy

Maria Anderson, Tampa: “Ice cream.”

Claudia Swidzinski, Tampa: “Mozzarella sticks.”

Kasey Connolly, Tampa: “Mac and cheese.”

Anny Peña, Tampa: “Wawa club sandwich.”

things to do

Anime, Oktoberfest, and Karens Eat For Free

Thursday, Sept. 28Saturday, Sept. 30

Karens Unite It is finally OK to be Karen — at least at Boulevard Burgers. If your name is actually Karen, bring a valid ID and stop by for a free Boulevard burger. This offer is only for dine-in Karens with any and all spellings of the name. Boulevard Burgers & Tap House, 5905 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. 727-2014906, blvdburgers.com

Thursday, Sept. 28

Intro to Bonsai Learn about bonsai from the Suncoast Bonsai Society. This introduction gives an overview of what bonsai is and isn’t. Hear about the origins, features, different styles and styling techniques, and basic care. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 1 p.m. 727893-1074, mygulfport.us

Cuban Sandwich History In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, learn about the history of the Cuban sandwich. Discuss the origins, recipes, and the weigh into the Tampa vs. Miami sandwich debate of the lunch time staple. The lecture includes a special Cuban sandwich tasting by Chef Chuck Bandel. Reserve your spot online. The Dalí Museum’s Raymond James Community Room, 1 Dalí Blvd., St. Petersburg. 6 p.m. $5. 727-823-3767, thedali.org

Trivia Night Spend your Thursday evening testing your knowledge with trivia night. Gulfport Librarian Alex prepared a list of fun questions for players to answer. The player with the most questions answered correctly wins. If enough people attend, players have the option to play in teams.  Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 6 p.m. 727-8931074, mygulfport.us

TESA Exhibit Support artists in your community at the opening reception of The Exhibiting Society

of Artists (TESA) exhibit. Featuring more than 15 Tampa Bay artists, this exhibit includes a diversity and variety of mediums and subjects. There isn’t a theme for the exhibition, other than the artists are all members of TESA. DRV Gallery, 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport. 6-8 p.m. 727-3827004, drvgallery.com

Treasure Island Bingo Stop by for Thursday night bingo where you have a chance to win up to $200 and other great prizes. Free coffee, tea, and parking, and you can buy sodas and desserts at the snack bar. Try your luck with the early-bird games at 6:30 p.m. before the regular games begin. Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave., Treasure Island. 7:30-9:30 p.m. 727270-3178, treasureislettes.weebly. com

Friday, Sept. 29-Sunday, Oct. 8

Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical Head back to 17 Cherry Tree Lane for this heartwarming story of the magical nanny who rekindles the joy of the Banks family. St. Petersburg City Theatre, 4025 31st St. S., St. Pe-

tersburg. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. $10-28. 727-866-1973, spcitytheatre.org

Friday, Sept. 29

This Country: A Conversation with Navied Mahdavian Come see the New Yorker cartoonist’s extraordinary debut graphic memoir about belonging, identity, and making a home in the remote American West. Discussion moderated by local author Lorraine Monteagut. Tombolo Books, 2153 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. 727-755-9456, tombolobooks.com

Full Moon Concert Enjoy a full moon celebration concert honoring Native American culture and music with Painted Raven. This award-winning musical duo uses the traditional Native American flute and modern instruments to create unique music. Concert proceeds benefit the Gulfport Senior Center Building Fund Campaign. Catherine A Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. $25-40. 727-893-1070, eventbrite.com

Karens eat for free at Boulevard Burgers until Sept. 30.

CAMERON HEALY

Saturday, Sept. 30-

Sunday, Oct. 1

Anime St. Pete Here’s a two-day celebration of anime for all St. Pete cosplayers and anime fans. Hear from your favorite anime cosplayers, performers, and voice actors at the second annual Anime St. Pete. Sign up for the cosplay contest, TikTok film festival, and lip sync competition. The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $25-125. 727-892-5202, animestpete.floridacomiccons.com

Saturday, Sept. 30

ART in AUTUMN A showcase of the work of members of Gulfport’s own Town Shores Art Guild. Suntan Arts Center, 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Sept. 30-Nov. 1. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 727-367-3818, suntanart.org

Gulfport’s Oktoberfest Time for the Gulfport Merchants Chamber second annual Oktoberfest. Spend the day with your friends and family trying some delicious food and craft brews. Enjoy an exciting lineup of live music, games, entertainment, and Tampa Bay vendors. Stop into Gulfport’s bars and restaurants celebrating the occasion too. Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 727-3443711, visitgulfportflorida.com

Sunday, Oct. 1

Radical Self Acceptance: Redefining Beauty This exhibit honors breast cancer awareness month by showcasing photographs of breast cancer survivors/warriors and their tattoos, and by donating 10% of all sales proceeds to The Affirmation Project. Brenda McMahon Gallery, 2901 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. Oct. 1-31. Thurs., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tues., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 727-454-0453, theaffirmationsproject.com

Monday, Oct. 2

Musical Bingo Every Monday test your knowledge on the Billboard top hits with musical bingo. Bring your

friends and family to experience the best way to play bingo. Instead of letters and numbers, they are replaced with song titles and artists. Enjoy great music and win fun prizes. Jolly Roger’s Grub & Pub, 32 Madonna Blvd., Tierra Verde. 6:30 p.m. 727498-6736, jollyrogerspub.com

Tuesday, Oct 3

Public Input Workshop The City of Gulfport and Gulfport Arts & Heritage (Gulfport Historical Society) invite all interested parties to join them at a public input workshop for a brainstorming session at the Gulfport Arts Center.  2726 54th Ave. S, Gulfport. 4 p.m.

Karaoke Tuesdays Tuesdays are great for margaritas and karaoke. Grab your friends for $5 margaritas and Tuesday night karaoke sessions with KJ Cass. Everyone is welcome to sing their best karaoke jams and dance along on the open dance floor. Zipperz Bar, 4917 22nd Ave. S., Gulfport. 7-11 p.m. 727-592-1956.

Wednesday, Oct. 4

An Unflinching Look with Benjamin Dimmitt Tombolo Books hosts a book talk with photographer Benjamin Dimmitt, whose new book focuses on the unique Chassahowitza National Wildlife Refuge on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Discussion moderated by Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Dr. Matt McCarthy and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts’s Robin O’Dell. Tombolo Books, 2153 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. 727-755-9456, tombolobooks.com

Wednesday, Oct. 4Sunday, Oct. 29

Indecent A lesbian kiss in the 1923 play, God of Vengeance, sparks controversy that unfolds across the cast and crews’ lives in this regional premiere. American Stage, 163 Third St. N., St. Petersburg. Weds.-Thurs., 7 p.m.; Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. $28. 727-823-7529, americanstage.org

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Caregivers 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.

HAPPY HEARTS SENIOR CARE

We provide quality, dependable, and compassionate Senior Care. Please give us a call to customize a care plan for your loved one! We are locally owned and operated by a Registered Nurse as well as Licensed and Insured. 727-342-0176.

Computer Service

JS COMPUTER REPAIR

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

727-343-2838

In-Home services: Internet security, training, virus & spyware removal, maintenance and repair, data recovery. (PC & Mac)

Electrical

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

SEMI-RETIRED CARPENTER At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Clearwater, Gulfport, and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus: 727-644-6194.

Home Improvement

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.

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.

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Lawn & Landscape NEW OFFICE 5217 Gulfport Blvd Landscape Ins t alls (residential and commercial) sod, lighting, large tree and palm installs, and yard cleanups.

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Owner/Operator for over 25 years

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.

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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

YARD CLEAN UP 727-641-9033

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

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.

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.

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.

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

FOOD ASSISTANT NEEDED

Benjamin Apple, Owner 727-280-3110

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applebenjamin81@gmail.com

License # L23000303923

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

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.

727- 251- 2319

gulfportcounselingcenter.com

For Sale

TRUCK FOR SALE Tan 2008 Chevy Silverado work truck; 129,232 miles. Call 202491-6907 for price and details.

CHRYSLER SEBRING TOURING CONVERTABLE 2004 One owner, maintained Florida white vehicle. Only 95k miles, cold A/C, newer working top, new brakes & rotors, new battery! Fun in the sun! $3,400. 727748-9117

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

General

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

Pets / Animals

DOG SITTING & DOG WALKING If you are located in Gulfport, I can help with your furry friends! Dog walking: $15 per dog/walk. Pet sitting: $50/day. Boarding: $40/day (pets must be less than 20lbs). Contact Wag, Walk & Watch at 551-795-6827.

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!

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.

C

All meetings are open to the public and are held in the City Hall, City Council Chambers, 2401 53rd Street South, In Person, unless otherwise noted. Meetings may occasionally be added, cancelled or rescheduled after this list is published. Please check the city’s website mygulfport.us for updated information.

Real Estate For Sale

Real Estate Sales Find More Home Sales at thegabber.com. Here’s what homes sold in South Pinellas Sept. 15-21.

Gulfport Real Estate

926 Gray St. S. (Stetson)

This two-bedroom, one-bath home, built in 1949, has 816 square feet. It listed and sold for $365,000.

St. Pete Beach

8000 Sailboat Key Blvd. S., #106

This two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1990, has 1,300 square feet. It listed for $799,000 and sold for $775,000.

9495 Blind Pass Road, #1205

This 1979 condo has two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,175 square feet. It listed for $649,500 and sold for $642,500.

421 86th Ave.

This three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1957, has 1,180 square feet. It listed for $599,777 and sold for $575,000.

9425 Blind Pass Road, #1004

5825 27th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This 1953 home has three bedrooms, two baths, and 1,903 square feet. It listed for $749,000 and sold for $725,000.

This two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1978, has 1,175 square feet. It listed for $589,000 and sold for $555,000.

6800 Sunset Way, #1105

This two-bedroom, one-bath condo, built in 1977, has 800 square feet. It listed and sold for $549,900.

We only hire PROFESSIONAL, EXPERIENCED, FULL-TIME realtors who live in & love Gulfport... and SO SHOULD YOU!

Hiring an EXPERIENCED REALTOR is as close as you’ll get to having a crystal ball.