The Gabber: December 1, 2022

Gulfport Sailor Wins Championship

By Cameron Healy

On Oct. 7, this Gulfport Yacht Club member won the Hobie Cat 14 North American Championship at the Dallas Corinthian Yacht Club in Texas. After four long days on a lake in Tex-

as, Jason Sanchez dominated seven races in order to capture his reigning title as champion.

Sanchez is a St. Pete native who has been sailing since he was about

5 years old. He spent most of his life sailing through the Gulfport Yacht Club.

The GYC is a sailing social club.

Three Gulfport Yacht Club members placed in the top five of the Hobie Cat 14 North American Championship.

JASON SANCHEZ

2908-B Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 727-321-6965

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

Advertising Director

Barry Loper barry@thegabber.com

Creative Director

Joey Neill joey@thegabber.com

News & Politics

Monroe Roark monroe@thegabber.com

Features & Events

Cameron Healy cameron@thegabber.com

Operations

Patrick Graney patrick@thegabber.com

Reporters

Mike Sunnucks, Crime Amanda Hagood, Books & Environment Jon Kile, Columnist Joe Opaleski, Columnist

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

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Barry Loper and Cathy Salustri Loper Deadlines Friday at 5 p.m.

About the Thanksgiving Publisher’s Note

It seems safe to say that being thankful is generally beneficial; mental health experts advise us to make time to do so regularly. Thanksgiving began as an occa sion to express gratitude for the harvest and for even being alive. Now the holiday has sensibly evolved into being about thanks in general. It was never intended as a lesson about history from se lections chosen through a filter of misfortune.

Your Thanksgiving column in The Gabber made little effort to promote gratitude or even overall well-being. You focused on the negatives of Thanksgiving, start ing with the question mark in the heading and then beginning by saying it is not your favorite holi day. You focused on the negatives of our past, and on the negatives

you personally experience, and you devoted most of a page to this. I was in good spirits when I picked up that issue, but this piece brought me down. To take a truly multicultural view of it, the histo ry part of your column overlooks the long history of celebrations of thanks in various cultures prior to the 1600s and its existence in var ious countries today.

I am part Native American, I have a degree in history with ex tensive course work in psychology, and I believe that having reason for mourning, as with the Native American woman you mentioned, is all the more reason for setting aside time to be positive—in this instance grateful. Even political prisoners languishing for years in captivity have coped by choosing to focus on the positive. It is one of the few things they still can control; it is not healthy to dwell on what we cannot control. On a

The views and opinions expressed in this publi cation are not necessarily those of the publish ers, 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 adver tisement. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced or copied without permission of the publisher.

national scale this approach includes choosing when and when not to focus on what has happened in our past, a past that can never be changed and in which we, in the present, did not participate. Thanksgiving should be an inclusive holiday. Gratitude is for everyone, including minorities.

No doubt there is value in knowing our history so that we might have a better understanding of how it still affects us today. This knowledge also helps us to more fairly judge the complexities of the lives of certain famous people, ones with good intentions and deeds. These people often were residents of the culture in which they lived, did things we might regard now as wrong, yet they were compelled to make those choices and live the way they did or else they never would have been successful enough to do the good for which we know them. And if they had not done so, someone else would have just the same. Human history is full of success and failure, just as our personal lives are. The benefit of the Thanksgiving holiday is not found in such lessons.

If you view Thanksgiving as a time to dwell on the tragedies brought about by the arrival of Europeans here, then by your logic, we would devote Veteran’s Day to pointing out how some of our veterans were party to acts of war crimes. On Labor Day we would focus on acts of corporate fraud and greed our workers have been connected with, if even by association. We could use New Years not as a time to look forward to what it promises, but to dwell on what went wrong with the past year. Christmas would be a time to remember the religious wars and slaughters and miseries committed in the name of Christianity. Being awake to social and historical realities has broad importance, but it is a poor use of a holiday to use them for this.

If you want to use your position with The Gabber to be a community leader, I urge you to lead us in ways that promote positive think-

ing in those moments best suited for that and then, rightly, steer us toward historical and present realities at another time. When I organize family and friends around the Thanksgiving dinner, it is positive. We may acknowledge losses that

occurred that year, but our focus is, appropriately, on being grateful for what we have, being grateful that we are together. On that day, those are the kind of moments we need. We have 364 other days for the rest. –Dan Chestnut, Gulfport

The Gabber welcomes and encourages letters and commentary. One letter per person, per month. All letters must be signed with your real name and city, and should be as brief as possible (ideally <250 words). We may edit letters for content, clarity and length. We will not print letters that incite violence, include personal attacks on private citizens, or that are intentionally misleading or inaccurate. Letters sent to the Gabber for print will also appear online and on the Gabber’s social media pages. Commentary posted to the Gabber’s website and social media pages may also be used in print. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent the views of the Gabber owners, advertisers, or staff. Send letters to news@thegabber.com or mail them to 2908-B Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL, 33707.

Homelessness Continues To Be an Issue in Gulfport Frequent Complaints to

By Monroe Roark

Council, Daily Issue for Police

The lengthy discussion regard ing Beach Drive at Gulfport City Council’s Nov. 15 meeting included a mention of an ongoing complaint throughout the city – a problem that has no easy answer.

An attorney representing one of the applicants seeking to have the right-of-way vacated in front of her home recounted a recent incident in which a homeless man camped in the area in question. Police were called and an extensive search found the man in another area, but not until after he had defecated in the backyard of the applicant’s home, according to the attorney.

Repeated comments at multiple city council meetings have referred to homeless encampments, most ly in the park area at the beach in downtown Gulfport. Local resident Karen Love has told council on more

than one occasion about a man who interacted with her so aggressively that she felt her safety was threat ened, and she has often report ed about specific pavilions at the park that have essentially become homes for certain people who park there night after night.

“I don’t have the answer, but I don’t think it’s right for the residents to not really have access to our own pavilions anymore because this is where people are living full time,” Love said. “And if you haven’t been down there to see it with your own eyes, I would encourage you to do so.”

Chris Smith, who lives on Shore Boulevard across from the park, confirmed Love’s account about a recent storm forcing multiple peo ple to move out of one pavilion that flooded and camp in another for a

few days. When the water receded, they moved back to their original spot, he said.

“The cops do come through around midnight and move them along, but they’re back about 5 a.m.,” he said. “The residents do not have the opportunity to use the pavilions. People who are coming down to visit Gulfport and use the beach don’t have it. It has become very unsafe. It has become disgust ing. We are watching people urinate, use the bathroom, poop in the gar bage cans. It is a terrible sight.”

But what can legally be done by authorities in Gulfport regarding homeless people, and what cannot be done?

“We obviously have to work within the law. We cannot outlaw home lessness,” said Police Chief Robert Vincent. “Anything that a person

Residents have complained about homeless people at the public pavilions on Gulfport Beach. The gentleman who allowed us to take this photo told The Gabber he was not homeless.

CATHY SALUSTRI

must do in order to survive – sleep, go to the bathroom, eat – you can not make it illegal to do just because a person is homeless. As long as there is an open place that is free and open to the public, then we can’t outlaw those activities.”

Vincent noted that some of the things homeless people find attrac tive about Gulfport are the same things everyone finds attractive, such as the free and open spaces that are readily available to the pub lic every day.

“We don’t charge for parking. We don’t charge for people to use pa vilions,” he said. “That makes it easy and attractive to homeless folks.”

The reason officers move wouldbe overnight campers out of the park at midnight, as Smith said, is because all of the city’s parks are closed to the public between mid night and 4 a.m.

“If they have a car, we have official signs posted that say you cannot park here overnight,” said Vincent. “If they are parked there overnight in those particular places, we can

Gulfport gathers

issue a parking citation. Those are kind of our limits right now.”

Other nuisance-related actions can lead to stiffer penalties, but Vin cent said his department has not received any official complaints re garding public urination or defeca tion. In general, he added, the com plaints that do come in are mostly on the nuisance level and almost never involve violence.

One well-known man among the local homeless population was ar rested several years ago on arson charges after setting fire to the porch at the Gulfport Historical Mu seum. Vincent believes he was not prosecuted because he likely does not have the mental capacity to form intent to commit the crime.

“We have had a number of calls about him, yelling and making threatening comments to people, but he’s never acted on them and there has never been enough to charge him with anything,” the chief said. “He basically sits at the bus stop by the Casino. He believes that Miley Cyrus owes him millions of

dollars for some reason, and he yells at everyone who walks by about Mi ley Cyrus.”

As reflected by this episode, Vin cent said mental illness is often tak en into consideration when officers interact with homeless people in the city.

“Mental illness is an issue. Sub stance abuse is an issue. Most of the people in Pinellas County who are homeless refuse to accept the alternatives,” said Vincent. “They don’t want to go to the shelter be cause the shelter will not let them drink or use their drugs or what ever the case may be. There are shelters operated by a church and they don’t want to go pray or be preached to.”

The initial approach by a Gulfport police officer in any situation with a homeless person is to offer a ride to a shelter. The answer is almost always no, Vincent said. But that is still the first option.

“It’s to help first, then enforce ment next if they’re breaking the rules.”

...where Gulfport gathers

By Cameron Healy

On Dec. 12, the Gulfport Senior Cen ter Foundation hosts a December Sip, Chat, and Paint event for the holidays.

This event is a holiday-themed painting class where you will receive two 8” x 10” paintings: One to keep, and one to gift to someone special.

Grab some friends or bring your

family members to create some orig inal holiday art as a gift and to deco rate your home.

Registered guests will receive “an individually wrapped charcuterie plate” provided by Freedom Square of Seminole and a selection of wines to choose from to sip on during the

event. If wine isn’t your style, don’t worry – they’ll have bottled water and soft drinks, too.

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting paint on, and because the event’s limited to 24 guests, the Foundation encourages people to sign up in advance.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Overheard at the Nov. 15 Gulfport City Council Meeting

About Beach Drive

“One of the most poorly named pieces of land. It’s neither a beach nor a drive, yet that’s what it’s called.” — Mayor Sam Henderson

“Over the last month and a half I’ve had people on my dock and footprints on my boat. It’s a con cern for me because I have two 13-year-olds and easy access into my backyard over there. I think opening this up would cause a lot more problems than it’s doing right now.” – Ron Bott

“Opening this up to public access would be an open invitation to ruin the lives of innocent people. How would you like to have your grand mother live in fear for the rest of her life?” – Sue Hager

“Unfortunately, I have only three minutes and, once again, the oth er side has been able to tell you things that absolutely are not the case. The law has been misrepre sented, the comprehensive plan has been misrepresented, and the characterization of the legal sta tus of what constitutes a shoreline has been misrepresented. I want the record to reflect that unlimited [time] was given to people to give one point of view, and three min utes was given to me to rebut.” –Paul Herman

[ Mayor Henderson clarified during the public hearing that the applicants themselves are not held to the three-minute limit for public comment. ]

“I’ve been a lawyer for 42 years. Vacating this right-of-way does not violate the city’s comprehen sive plan or the city ordinances.”

John Muehlstein

“I am a real estate lawyer. … Seems to be a lot of individuals that want to tell you what your le gal responsibilities are, and I think that’s why you have a city attorney to advise you about what your ob ligations are.” – Mary Muehlstein

“I am an attorney. I am not speak ing here as a lawyer. I have seen the property. There’s no road. There’s no beach. Why would anyone even want to come onto this land? I think we all have to use a little common sense here. … This is not the type of issue that goes to a referendum. … This is not an unusual issue. All municipali ties vacate land for different reasons. I just don’t understand how this is happening.” –Denise Gold

“The only thing the land seems to be good for is the birds and the cy press trees. Is that not enough? … I don’t believe this is your land to give away, but unlike half the room, I am not an attorney. The courts will settle the legal issue, and the next election will dispatch those who betrayed our trust. Tonight you’ve got one more chance to do the right thing. Keep the public lands in public hands.” –Un identified speaker

“I’ve spoken before about my oppo sition to giving public land to private individuals. … This is not an alley way. This is 600 feet of Clam Bayou shoreline. … I really would appreciate

it if, before you vote, you give your ra tionale for your vote. I think it is im portant to have transparency for both sides.” –Walter Barker

Regular Public Comment

“I live behind the Walgreens. Right behind Walgreens is an alley, and cars have figured out that if you’re coming down 22nd Ave. and see the light at 58th Street, you can turn right on 57th Street, cut through behind Walgreens and get back on 58th Street. I don’t think that is what that alley is for. It’s 12 feet wide from the curb to my property. [The city] ran some traf fic reports and reported back that people weren’t really speeding; it just seemed that way. Maybe it’s because they’ve nearly hit me a half-dozen times that it feels that way. … There is a danger behind my home. I’m not the only one at risk because people walk down that alley. It was not intended to be a thoroughfare from 57th Street to skip the traffic light. … I predict somebody is going to get hurt.” –Fred Pinachio

Here are snippets of what people said and did at the Gulfport City Council meeting.

GABBER FILE IMAGE

They primarily focus on “catama ran sailing and racing and wel comes all small boat sailors.”

“I would sneak off after Sunday dinner, and we would ride our bikes down to the yacht club and just go sail down there,” Sanchez said as he recalled memories with his brother.

His father had a membership for as long as he could remem ber, which influenced him and his brother to also get memberships at a young age.

“The Gulfport Yacht Club has al ways kind of been in my life,” San chez said. “Some of the founding members, they’ve always been there to watch us when we were younger and now we are watching them as they’re too old.”

Sanchez spoke on the yacht club being a place where local sailors can be passionate about sailing, but also a good group of people who just enjoy having fun.

Some other club members joined him in the competition. The Gulf

port Yacht Club announced that “Herb James finished third and

Adam Atherton finished fifth.” So, out of 36 competitors, three mem bers from Gulfport placed in the top five.

According to Sanchez, this com petition was a little more com petitive since the wind was light and unpredictable. Along with the wind, Sanchez said he had never sailed on a lake like this one, espe cially in Texas. He was used to big lakes like Lake Michigan or sailing along coasts like the Gulf.

“If it’s a nice, windy day, you just go sail and everybody has wind, but when you’re sailing with real ly light air, it’s like a chess game,” Sanchez explained.

So when trying to sail with light wind, it becomes what Sanchez called a “total mental game” when trying to reach that finish line.

Sanchez maintained pretty low scores during the four day period. Out of those four days, competi tors raced about 16 to 17 races out of the entire event.

He said he did not win every race, but he believes it was more about the consistency in maintain ing those low scores that helped him win overall.

Yacht Club continued from cover

After four long days of competing, Sanchez and the other sailors came together for a relaxing dinner by the water.

JASON SANCHEZ

Final Approval Given to Beach Drive Applications Motions to Vacate Right-of-Way Pass with Split Vote

By Monroe Roark

Gulfport City Council has offi cially vacated the right-of-way for three parcels along what is known as Beach Drive. The second reading of the ordinance and final vote took place Nov. 15.

The vote was 3-2, same as with the first reading. April Thanos main tained that the land should remain with the city, and Paul Ray ex pressed concern about the process while continuing to prefer a citizen referendum to decide.

Individual votes were taken on three separate parcels. More than an hour of public comment preced ed the first vote, with neither side saying much that was different from the first reading or the Planning and Zoning Board hearing before that. Audio and video of the entire pro ceeding can be found on the city’s website.

Beach Drive is on the eastern edge of Gulfport at Clam Bayou. It was es tablished about a century ago and is shown on the city’s 1925 plat map, according to officials. But it has nev er been used as a road and remains an undeveloped 50-foot-wide rightof-way. Current city leaders have made it clear that they never want it

to become a road.

Council included a few conditions brought forth by the Planning and Zoning Board at its Oct. 5 meeting in their motions to approve the appli cations. Those stipulations include a hold harmless/indemnity agree ment between the city and the re cipients of the vacated property, as well as a 10-foot utility easement over existing water and sewer lines.

The shoreline will remain a living shoreline with the uplands being under a restrictive covenant that prohibits any future development.

During the public hearing, numer ous people cited safety concerns that they feel will arise from con tinued public access. It was also ar gued that there is nothing there for the public to have access to given the extremely muddy conditions and the mangroves that populate the area.

The potential negative effect to the city’s comprehensive plan from this action was cited, with several people arguing on both sides of that issue, depending upon whether they were for or against the right-of-way vacation. In addition to the attorney who spoke as an official representa tive of one of the applicants, at least three people identified themselves as attorneys when addressing the council, regardless of whether they had a connection to any of the ap plicants.

Mayor Sam Henderson compli mented the audience members for maintaining a civil tone during the public hearing, saying it was much better than the previous council meeting and P&Z meeting, which became bogged down with personal attacks at times.

The City of Gulfport has closed Beach Drive, a small right of way that runs between Clam Bayou and a private property, because of a private dock that poses safety concerns. Some homeowners want the City to turn the land over to them, while others want it to remain open to the public.

CATHY SALUSTRI

Gulfport Beach Bazaar’s 1st Annual

Provider may also contract with other Plans/Part D sponsors. Tampa area. CarePlus is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CarePlus depends on contract renewal. Other providers are available in our network. 1From a preferred cost-sharing retail pharmacy. Important: At CarePlus, it is important you are treated fairly. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, religion, or language in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. The following department has been designated to handle inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies: Member Services, PO Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027, 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). Auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, are available to you. 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711) CarePlus provides free auxiliary aids and services, such as qualified sign language interpreters, video remote interpretation, and written information in other formats to people with disabilities when such auxiliary aids and services are necessary to ensure an equal opportunity to participate. This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our Member Services number at 1-800-794-5907. Hours of operation: October 1 – March 31, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 1 – September 30, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español (Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): Enfòmasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lòt lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sèvis pou Manm nou yo ki nan

By Cameron Healy

Wrapping presents can be such a hassle, but luckily Santa has some elves right here in Gulfport to help you wrap your special gifts.

Gulfport Senior Center Founda tion introduced their Senior Center Foundation Gift Wrapping Service. For this two-day opportunity, foun dation board members and other volunteers will wrap your gifts this holiday season.

On Dec. 8 and Dec. 14, members will wrap your gifts for a donation of $5-10 per package.

All the money raised goes toward the Center’s programs and activi ties, such as the Senior Center Pro gram and Services, the Fitness Cen ter maintenance, and the Building Fund.

Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. Dec. 8, 2-5 p.m., Dec. 14, 1-4 p.m. Submit your events online at thegabber.com

After buying gifts, head to the Gulfport Senior Center to get those holiday presents wrapped.

PIXABAY

gabberlife Explore Florida with olli

Meet Mabel

By Cathy Salustri

Are you Florida-curious?

This week, The Gabber’s creative director, Joey Neill, welcomed a new member of his family: Mabel, an 11-pound Chiweenie. At only three, Mabel was used as a breed er dog before landing with VIP Rescue (viprescue.org), where they vetted her and made sure she’d never have to have puppies again. Mabel is fitting in nicely at Team Gabber — Calypso and Banyan have shown her the best spots for a snoozle (in the back office) and also told her who the soft touch is for treats (guilty as charged!).

The Gabber supports rescue or ganizations. Clearly, VIP did well by Joey and Mabel, but collectively, we share our homes with animals adopted from the Humane Society of North Pinellas, Friends of Strays, SPCA, Pinellas Animal Services, and, in the case of one plucky cat, the Tangerine Greenway (not an official rescue). If you’re looking to add a fluffy or furry friend to your life, we also heartily endorse Pet Pal Animal Shelter, Suncoast An imal League, and Poochie Pawli cious Rescue.

Follow our adventures on Insta gram @gabberlife

JOEY NEILL

Spend Local Here’s a Few of our Favorite Area Artists, Artisans, and Makers

By Gabber Staff, with assistance from Ester Venouziou

15 Olives, a family business, grows its own olives in Florida and California, and they’re tree-to-table with their products, which include – you guessed it – olive oil and vinegar. 813-992-7596, 15olives.com

OK, so you missed Shopapaloo za (or maybe you went and regret passing up something great), but you still would rather give your hardearned cash to a small business that bolsters the local economy as op posed to a corporate giant who will

After the past few years, everyone’s washing their hands more, so why not make it fun? These cupcakes are definitely not for eating – they’re soap. Scrub-a-dub-yum! sweetsoapconfections.com

use it to go to space. Here’s a short list of some of our favorite small businesses, artists, makers, and ar tisans in the Gulfport/St. Pete area. And, as a small, family-owned busi ness ourselves, we know how much it really makes a difference when

people spend locally, so please look first to the mom-and-pops, momand-moms, and pop-and-pop shops close to your home and heart. A few of our favorites: Stella’s Sundries, CellarMasters, Tombolo Books, Full Court Classics, and Paw Paws.

Sure, sure, Century Jewelers sells jewelry there, but if you really want to wow a loved one, commission a piece from Pete, the owner, who can get as creative as you’d like. 6801 Gulfport Blvd. S., #12. 727-344-2524, thecenturyjewelers.com

Dec. 2: Holiday Wreath Auction

Bid on gorgeous wreaths themed and decorated by Gulf port and Gulfport-adjacent artists. Last year, bidding for trees got intense at this fundraiser for the Gulfport His tory Museum and Arts Center (we’re thinking of a tree adorned with bird seed that sold for $200), so even if you don’t need a wreath, watching the bidding will be fun. Stella’s, 2914 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m.

WIDE

It’s a pleasure to watch a side-hustle become a full-time gig, which is what happened to Sara O’Brien’s Wide Sky Tees this year. This woman-owned business has some of the best (and funniest!) tees – many with a local flair. Our pick: Her “I Like St. Pete and Maybe 3 People” tee. 5689 70th Ave. N., Pinellas Park. wideskylife.com

Dec. 10: Home Holiday Gift Bazaar

Looking for art or something artsy for someone special? This one-day event boasts jewelry, fiber art, home decor, holiday decorations, and other creatively made items. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 6445 2nd Ave. S., St. Pete

CENTURY

JEWELERS

Lucky Lighthouse Design goes all-in with atomic/mid-century modern... with a tropical flair. Find this Gulfport-based artist at IndieFlea or, closer to home, at Beach House 5317 (another of our favorites!). marketspread.com/vendor/34709/lucky-lighthouse-design

Have something to say? Get personalized messages that look almost like a ransom note with Great Plates. Florida-philes will love outline of the state made with different Florida license plates. 727-401-0882, greatplates.com

Every mermaid deserves a crown, and what better way to celebrate your favorite mermaid than with a crown of her own? We guarantee she doesn’t have one already. jenecasfantasea.etsy.com

For the fishing, boating, or paddling woman you love, the Betty Shop has “a whole lotta laid back,” as the logo says. This women-centric clothing shop caters to water-loving ladies of all shapes and sizes. shopbettyshop.com

Shopping continued on page 20

• Ten of the last 11 recessions started during Republican administrations

• Six of the seven administrations with the highest job growth since WWII were Democratic

• The first two presidents who doubled the national debt were Republican

IF YOUR www.ifpeopleactuallyvotedintheirownbestinterest.org

Dr. Susan Gore and Rev. Liz Edman

LUCKY LIGHTHOUSE DESIGN

JENECA’S

BETTY SHOPPE

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 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events.

Fitness Center now open! To provide physi cal distancing, we’ve limited capacity, so call to register for a spot.

Supplemental food assistance for qualify ing Gulfport Seniors in need is available at the Senior Center. Pantry is open on Mon days 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 ap pointments, 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 equip ment 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 ap pointment today.

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

SNAP Benefit Assistance Feeding Tampa Bay will meet with you to help you apply for SNAP benefits.

Gulfcoast Legal Assistance Do you need assistance, with lifetime planning docs, Medicaid/Medicare issues, Social Securi ty 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.

The Widowing Tribe Provides widowed peo ple a chance to meet socially to empower each other, build resilience, and make a posi tive difference. First & Third Thursdays, 1 p.m.

Veterans Coffee Connection Veterans of all service eras are invited to gather for coffee, support, friendship & to learn about available community resources. Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

Gulfport ROCKS! Join the party and create some fun rock art. All supplies provided. MUST Pre-register. Sponsored by Moore Medicare Options. Dec. 2, 1:30 p.m.

Aches, Pains, Groans, & Bones: The under lying cause, prevention, and treatment of joint pain. Talk includes recommendations and guidelines, while highlighting osteoar thritis management and bone health. Must

Pre-Register. Dec. 6, 2 p.m.

The Girls’ Club A new social group of senior single lesbians. Meet for a cup of coffee, chit chat, and to plan monthly social events to do together. Dec. 6, 3 p.m.

Health Talk with Labrador Primary: Staying Healthy During Cold & Flu Season Dr. McCoy shares helpful tips on how to prevent the cold & flu this season. Dec. 8, noon

Rhythm & Groove Jam Session Bring your instrument & join others for a casual jam ming group. Open to anyone & everyone, all instruments, all levels of experience, & lis teners. Dec. 8, 3 p.m.

Crafty Creations: Winter Gnome Wreath Make and take a fun creation. All supplies provided by Devoted Health. Dec. 9, 10 a.m.

Death Talks: Meet the Death Doula Take the mystery & fear out of death and dying with these end-of-life discussions. Dec. 13, 3 p.m.

Gingerbread House Workshop Join us to design your Gingerbread House Contest cre ation. All supplies provided by The Princess Martha. Limited space; preregistration re quired. Dec. 13, 2 p.m.

Gingerbread House Contest Creatives, daz zle your friends with your baking and design skills in the 2nd Annual Senior Center Ginger bread House Contest. Everyone else, come vote for your favorite! Due Dec. 14, noon; on exhibit Dec. 14-19. To enter, see Center staff. In the Kitchen with Chef Jack: Turkey Wild Rice Casserole Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step instruction from Chef Jack. Space is limited. MUST pre-reg ister. Dec. 15, 4 p.m.

Clubhouse Chatter Open discussion about the MLB season & your hometown Rays. Dec. 16, 10:30 a.m.

GEMS GETAWAYS

Teak at the St. Pete Pier Immerse your self in the most enticing, nautical-inspired menu crafted by top chefs in the Tampa Bay area. Serene ambience and 360-de gree waterfront views complete the elevat ed casual dining experience of teak on the St. Pete Pier. Dec. 6, $6; $8 nonmembers

MONDAYS

Monday Mile Walking Club 8 a.m., call for location

Spanish Conversation 8:30 a.m., Room 107

Chair Exercise/Yoga 9:30 a.m., Theater lobby

Spanish for Beginners 10 a.m., Room 107

Stretch & Strength 10 a.m., Casino

Wisdom Healing Qigong 11 a.m., Theater lobby

Mahjong 12 p.m., Room 107

Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby

Chair Yoga 1 p.m., Casino

Strength Training & Aerobics 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Chair Volleyball 3 p.m., Dining Hall

TUESDAYS

Gulfport Senior Citizens Harmonica Club 9 a.m., Room 107

Line Dancing for Beginners 10 a.m., Neighborhood Center

Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino

Gulfport Quilting Club 10 a.m., Room 106

Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby

Contract Bridge 1:30 p.m., Theater lobby

New Horizons Band of Gulfport Jazz Practice 4:30 p.m., Room 107

New Horizons Band of Gulfport Concert Practice 6 p.m., Dining Hall

WEDNESDAYS

Gentle Mindful Yoga 10 a.m., Neighbor hood Center

Investment Discussion Group 10 a.m., Room 107

Canasta 1 p.m., Theater lobby

Bingo 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Intermediate Spanish 6 p.m., Room 106 Gulfport Toastmasters 6 p.m., Room 107

THURSDAYS

Guided Meditation 10 a.m., Room 107

Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino

Stretch & Strength 10 a.m., Casino

Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby

Contract Bridge 1:30 p.m., Theater lobby

Strength Training & Aerobics 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Italian Language Classes 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., various rooms

FRIDAYS

Wellness Movement 9 a.m., Room 106

Gulfport Writers’ Workshop 9:30 a.m., Room 107

Knitting & Crocheting 10 a.m., Theater lobby

Healing Yoga Therapy 11 a.m., Casino

Bridge Instruction 12:30 p.m., Room 107

Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby

Chair Volleyball 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Art Opening Reception Free and open to the public. Dec. 2, 6 p.m.

Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 • /gulfportlibraryfl

Mygulfport.us/gpl • Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

All programs free and subject to change.

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

Baby Time Fridays, 10:15 a.m.

Teen Space Spend time with friends and make 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. Mondays, 4 p.m.

Come & Go Craft Drop in for creative, self-directed crafting. For all ages, but some pieces are small. Supplies limited to a first come, first serve basis. Located on tables in children’s area. Dec. 3, 10 a.m.

Grown-Up Movie Series Call 727-893-1074 for title. Dec. 3, 1 p.m.

World AIDS Day Book signing and presen tation by Terry Dyer, CEO of World AIDS Museum. Dec. 6, 5 p.m.

Spa Day Crafts Make bath bombs, sugar scrubs, and soap. Registration required, call 727-893-1074 or email library.programs@ mygulfport.us to attend. Dec. 8, 2 p.m.

SpeakOut: The Intersection of Faith & LGBTQ Idenity Rev. Liz Edman & Dr. Susan Gore discuss current controversial issues. Sponsored by LGBTQ Resource Center. Funding was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recom mendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities. Dec. 8, 7 p.m.

Gulfport Book Club Discuss “In the Midst of Winter” by Isabel Alklende. Available as

print and audio. Dec. 15, 2 p.m.

St. Pete Saxophone Quartet Holiday & Big Band music to get everyone in a seasonal mood. Sponsored by Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Library. Dec. 15, 7 p.m.

Lego Club See what construction chal lenges we have for you this week. Rec ommended for Grades k-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For addi tional information call 727-893-1074. Dec. 17, 2 p.m.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Basics Presentation on Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D and what they mean to you. Oct. 15-Dec. 7, open en rollment. Dec. 21, 1 p.m. floridashine.org; individual appointments also available; call 727-893-1073.

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

Disco Party Dec. 9: 7 p.m., Hustle lesson; 8 p.m., music & dancing. $10. Ballroom dance with Daniel Fugazzotto & Carol Baker Dec. 11: 6 p.m., lesson; 7 p.m., dancing. $10.

Casino Weekly Dances

Ballroom Lessons: Tues., 12 p.m. $10

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

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

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

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents

Pickleball

Intermediate and advanced Mon., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Beginners Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. All levels Tues., 6-8:30 p.m. and Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Adult Basketball Wed. & Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thurs., 6-8:30 p.m.

Table Tennis Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Game Room Mon., Wed., & Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

PROGRAMS

tra charge. Please contact the Recreation Center for more details.

Teen Night! Registrations continue for the 2022-2023 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 gymna sium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center member ship required: $3; $25, nonresidents.

CLASSES

Danskinetics: Tues. 10-11 am. $8/class or $28/month. Call Carol at 845-6540609.

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

Essentrics Toning Thurs., 9 a.m. $30/ month. Lauren: 248-875-7030

Hatha Yoga Wed., 6:15 p.m. $12/class or $40/month. Denise: 727-251-8868. Nia 10 a.m. $15/class, $40/month. Christine: 727-692-1896

School Year Child Care Program

Registra tion continues for the 2022-23 school year child care program for kids entering kinder garten through age 14. Bus transportation available from Pasadena Fundamental, Gulfport Montessori, and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program runs until 5:30 p.m., with extended hours until 6 p.m. for an ex tra charge. Program runs until 5:30 p.m., with extended hours until 6 p.m. for an ex

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

Acrylic & Oil Painting Tues., 10 a.m. $130/4-week session. Jim: jim_gigurtsis@ yahoo.com

Ballet Tues., 5:45 p.m., ages 5-7; 6:45 p.m. intermediate ballet, ages 8-16. $40/month. Lisa: 727-742-2594.

Youth Hip Hop Fri., 6:30 p.m., ages 7-9; 7:30 p.m., ages 9-16. $40/month. Lisa: 727-742-2594.

Hula Hoop Fitness Second & fourth Thursday, 6:30 p.m. $10/class. Maria: mestrada1987@gmail.com

Tai Chi Gung Mon. 6:30p.m. and Fri. 10 a.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.

From mermaids to Grinch to bunnies, Amelia’s Wreaths of Joy has handmade wreaths for all seasons. Our favorite? The flamingo. etsy.com/shop/ameliaswreathsofjoy

Best for: Cat lovers who like beer and also aren’t afraid to admit their cats are wonderful, entitled jerks will love pretty much everything at Felinious Hops. Our favorite: It was the “Cats are Jerks” glass, but our cats knocked it over and broke it. Our cats’ favorites: the Felinious Kush (don’t worry, mom, it’s catnip). felinioushops.com

It’s that time of year again! Santa is putting his list together for this year. If you are a Gulfport resident and could use a little help, the Gulfport Police Department is now accepting applications for Christmas assistance November 28th through December 14th, 2022 between 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at 2401 53rd Street S. Gulfport. Each family’s head of household must bring photo identification, proof of Gulfport residence as well as the name(s) and age(s) of child(ren) living in the home. Operation Santa will collect Christmas gifts for children ages 0 to 10 years of age. There will be no home deliveries and you must pick up your gifts by appointment at the Police Department from December 19-20, 2022. For more information on Operation Santa, please call at 727-893-1097 and leave a message and one of our elves will return your call.

AMELIA’S WREATHS OF JOY

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Group Schedule: One-Time In-Person Group Quit Sessions

The Centre Palm Harbor 1500 16th Street, Palm Harbor Monday, December 5, 2022 10:00am 12:00pm

The Centre Palm Harbor 1500 16th Street, Palm Harbor Monday, December 5, 2022 10:00am 12:00pm

Florida DOH Pinellas Mid County 8751 Ulmerton Road, Largo Thursday, December 8, 2022 12:00pm 2:00pm

Florida DOH Pinellas Mid County 8751 Ulmerton Road, Largo Thursday, December 8, 2022 12:00pm 2:00pm

Four-Week Virtual Group

Four-Week Virtual Group

Wednesdays

Decembeer 7 December 28, 2022 2:00pm 3:00pm

Wednesdays December 7 December 28, 2022 2:00pm 3:00pm

One-Time Virtual Group

One-Time Virtual Group

Thursday, December 1, 2022 | 1:00pm 3:00pm

Thursday, December 1, 2022 | 1:00pm 3:00pm

Friday, December 2, 2022 | 10:00am 12:00pm

Friday, December 2, 2022 | 10:00am 12:00pm

Monnday, December 5, 2022 | 6:00pm 8:00pm

Tuesday, December 6, 2022 | 1:00pm 3:00pm

Monday, December 5, 2022 | 6:00pm 8:00pm Tuesday, December 6, 2022 | 1:00pm 3:00pm Wednesday, December 7, 2022 | 10:00am 12:00pm

Wednesday, December 7, 2022 | 10:00am 12:00pm

Monday, December 12, 2022 | 2 2:30pm 4:30pm

Tuesday, December 13, 2022 | 5 5:30pm 7:30pm SPANISH

Monday, December 12, 2022 | 2:30pm 4:30pm Tuesday, December 13, 2022 | 5:30pm 7:30pm SPANISH Wednesday, December 14, 2022 | 6:00pm 8:00pm

Wednesday, December 14, 2022 | 6:00pm 8:00pm

arts

Gift Local Art This Holiday Season

Florida CraftArt’s Holiday Boutique Will Help You Find A Special Holiday Gift

By Cameron Healy

In every corner of the room ap peared to be Christmas trees filled from top to bottom with colorful ornaments. From the tall ceiling hung presents wrapped in white paper with lime green ribbons. Small sculptures of flamingos with Santa hats and red bows around their necks and stained glass dreidel wall decor sat on white dis play tables.

This is what you can expect while visiting Florida CraftArt’s Holiday Boutique in St. Pete.

Florida CraftArt is a statewide nonprofit organization supporting Florida artists and their craftsman ship. With their free admission, anyone can check out the fine craft art of more than 220 Florida art

ists. Along with the general gallery, this organization curates seven different exhibits throughout the year for members and nonmem ber artists to present their work in their Exhibition Gallery.

Through Dec. 30, this year’s holi day exhibit is available to help you find a unique, handcrafted holiday gift for someone special in your life. In the entrance of the exhibit, mini white baskets are available for vis itors to carry any ornaments or de cor they are looking to purchase.

There is a large variety of festive ornaments, holiday wall decor, jew elry such as bracelets and earrings, greeting cards with simple or funny phrases and drawings, and other holiday-oriented trinkets.

Many artists tailored their pieces to be Florida-related, such as palm trees with colorful string lights, manatees with decorated wreaths, and wrapped presents on a sunny beach.

With holiday season here, Florida CraftArt’s Holiday Boutique offers people who want to support local artists a way to check out some handcrafted and local art for some one in your life.

At the end of your visit, consider donating to Florida CraftArt so they can continue to host artists’ work in an environment that is free for any one to see.

Florida CraftArt 501 Central Ave., St. Pete. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., 12-5 p.m.

Florida CraftArt Holiday Boutique hosts Florida artists’ work, and holds plenty of St. Pete-oriented ornaments as well.

CAMERON HEALY

One of Holiday Boutique’s many trees filled with the local artists’ unique ornaments.

CAMERON HEALY

Gulfport’s Best-Kept Art Secret Meet the ClayWorks Artists at ArtJones This Weekend

By Cameron Healy

ArtJones returns for its sixth annu al self-guided studio tour Dec. 3-4. With the intentions of supporting Gulfport artists, the tour includes nine different studios visitors can check out over the two-day event.

From the list of studios, art lovers can expect a variety of art, such as ceramics, jewelry, mixed-media art, paintings, photography, and sculp tures.

If you enjoy the art of ceramics, ClayWorks in particular is a muststop.

This Gulfport studio for profes sional ceramic artists will present art from three local artists: Denny Howard, Patricia Burrows, and Mar garet Foy Meinhart. This will be their second year involved with ArtJones.

One of ClayWorks artists, Patricia Burrows, explained visitors can ex pect to see classic pottery, function al platters, small pendants, decora tive items for walls and tables, large sculptural pieces, and even planters. All of these pieces are made from different forms of firing and glazes. They will have raku, high fire, and electric fire items available.

“This year, I’ve been working a lot on succulent planters,” Burrows said. “I’ll have a lot of succulents, so I’m going to have a table outside and we’re going to have planters, plants, and dirt so people can actu ally assemble one. They can do that during the tour.”

Burrows said she’s worked on a lot of colored clay and planters, but

some of her pieces tend to have botanical effects, such as flower pressings.

Another artist, Denny Howard, creates “ceramic vessels designed to be used as Ikebanas,” which are vases in Japanese flower arranging.

He also mixes his own glazes and creates plenty of functional and dec orative pieces. Burrows said he also has many traditional, classic pottery that will be presented during Art Jones.

“He actually made an imprint of some trees with clay then made it into a mold,” Burrows explained the creative process of Howard’s latest Ikebana vases.

The third artist from ClayWorks, Margaret Foy Meinhart creates piec es with terra cotta clay and “deco rates with the colored slip transfer method inspired by paper collage.” Meinhart is also known for her deco rative wall and table pieces. Not only does she create ceramic artwork, but she also is a graphic designer.

“I do a lot of decorative collections and lamps,” Meinhart said. “I also do big wall commissions of my fish, too.”

ClayWorks of Gulfport, 5021 Tangerine Ave. S. along the Art Jones Studio Tour, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Dec. 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. artjo nesstudiotour.com

Denny Howard creates a lot of beautiful Ikebana vases for flower arrangements.

CAMERON HEALY

Photos by Cameron Healy

Elvis Nelson Rosero, St. Petersburg: “A puppy German shepherd when I was 13 years old.”

Denise Johnson, St. Petersburg: “My Schwinn thin-wheel bicycle when I was 10.”

Guy Cote, St. Pete: “My mother bought me a plane ticket to Maine to spend Christmas with my family.”

Nancy Smith, Clearwater: “My kids gave me a dinner cruise around the Statue of Liberty on an old-timey sailboat for me and my husband.”

Food Fanciers

gabber on vacation

Wreath Auction, ArtJones, + Christmas Tree Workshop

Friday, December 2

Creative Clay Art Market Support

South Pinellas artists this holiday season. Creative Clay Transition stu dent artists and member artists will present their work at the December Friday Art Market. This market fea tures a variety of holiday-themed art you can gift a loved one. You can expect to see hand-painted wine glasses, ceramics, paintings, and greeting cards all occasions.

Creative Clay, 1846 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 727-8250515; creativeclay.org

Wreath Auction ‘Tis the season to get yourself a one-of-a-kind holi day wreath. Join the Gulfport His tory Museum and Gulfport Arts Center as they host an auction of decorated wreaths by local artists. The artists were given 24” diameter holiday wreaths to freely decorate. The wreaths will be hung up as a

part of December’s First Friday Art Walk.  Stella’s, 2914 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. $50. 727-201-8687.

Saturday, December 3Sunday, December 4

ArtJones Studio Tour Attention all art lovers! Check out the 6th annual ArtJones self-guided studio tour. Sup porting and meet Gulfport artists as you visit nine studios throughout the two-day event. There will be a variety

Join St. Pete Fools’ 2nd annual Holiday Toy and Bike Drive this Sunday, Dec. 4.

THE ST. PETE FOOLS

of artwork including ceramics, jewel ry, mixed-media art, paintings, pho tography, and sculptures. You won’t want to miss out on this once-a-year event. Gulfport. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 518-692-7742, art jonesstudiotour.com

Saturday, December 3

Children’s Farmer Market Sup port a nonprofit learning center by checking out this special farm er’s market! You can buy organ ic produce, fruit, and prepared foods all grown by the children of the center. Not only will they sell their products, but local vendors will have fruits, veggies, other food, eco-friendly goods, art, and garden items. Listen to live music from Urban Gypsies as you shop. Creative Play Children’s Learning Center, 2624 54th St. S., Gulfport. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 727-201-4537.

Christmas Tree Workshop Get crafty with this Christmas tree workshop. This workshop lets you get creative as you build a Christ mas tree display with builder shims of cedar wood. Wood, craft supplies, and instructions are all included, so don’t forget to reserve your spot on line. Bring your own refreshments and snacks as you get your craft on for the night. Beach House 5317, 5317 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport. 1:30 p.m. $40. eventbrite.com

Tree Lighting + Toy Drive Cel ebrate the 12th annual Tierra Verde Tree Lighting as they raise money and collect toys to help with Lealman Fire Department’s Annual Toy Drive. The event be gins with musical entertainment, then includes a visit from Santa Claus, a holiday pet parade, the Christmas tree lighting, and an announcement of the raffle win ner, and ends with more music. 1110 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. 4 p.m.-8 p.m. treelighting. tv

Sunday, December 4

Holiday Toy + Bike Drive Give back this holiday season by donating to St. Pete Fools’ toy and bike drive. They aim to collect around two thousand toys and five hundred bicycles. They are looking for new toys for ages 2-17 and bicycles, helmets, and bike locks for ages 10-18. Any guests who donate to raise funds or donate toys and bikes will get a free meal. St. Pete Fools Social Club, 3263 5th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 12 p.m.-5 p.m. stpe tefools.com

Monday, December 5

Mayor’s Open Office Do you want to see changes in your St. Pete Beach community? This is a great opportunity to use your voice and

share your concerns with your very own mayor. Mayor Alan Johnson is holding an open-office event where you can ask him questions and engage in discussions about your community.  St. Pete Beach Library, 365 73rd Ave., St. Pete Beach. 5 p.m. 727-363-9238, spbli brary.com

Thursday, December 8

LGBTQ + Faith Discussion Learn about the intersections between LGBTQ identity and faith, specifically speaking about Christianity. Listen to Episcopal priest Rev. Liz Edman and author Dr. Susan Gore discuss the “cost of spiritual violence” and the insights “LGBTQ people bring to religious faith.” This free, education al discussion welcomes everyone in person as well as on Zoom. Gulf port Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 7 p.m. 727-893-1074. eventbrite.com.

Holiday Concert Enjoy a lovely night of holiday tunes and plenty of oth er songs played by the South Pas adena Community Band. This free hour-long concert welcomes every one so bring your friends and family. Donations are appreciated but not required (the musicians are all vol unteers.) South Pasadena City Hall, 7047 Sunset Dr. S., South Pasadena. 7:30 p.m. 727-337-0442, southpasa denaband.com.

Creative Play Farm School

Holiday

Holiday

Farmers Market

Saturday, Dec 3 • 9am-12pm 2624 54th St S • Gulfport

Organic produce, fruit, & prepared goods GROWN BY OUR STUDENTS!

Other local vendors will be selling foods, garden items, handmade art, & eco-friendly products. All proceeds benefit Creative Play Farm School.

worship

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

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION

330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach

Reverend Omar Reyes

Shepherd Old Catholic Church

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

Where ALL are welcome at the Lord’s table. Come and See... Sunday Mass 9:30am www.goodshepherdocc.net 727-403-7178

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop

5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island

10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island Sunday Service 10am with Holy Communion 727-360-5739 paradiseluth102@gmail.com paradiselutheran.com

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

Discussion -10:30 Program - 11:00

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

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing 727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

Affiliated with St Vincent’s Episcopal Church 5441 9 th Ave N. • St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Sunday Services 10AM Misa en Español: Domingos 12PM

For Zoom directions email us at uuunited@earthlink.net

“You need not think alike to love alike.” - Francis David, 1534 uuunited.org

obituaries

Until We Meet Again

Mike Brandenburg ran The Storage House for 11 wonderful years, and he loved every moment of it. His lifelong dream was to have a family business and Gulfport made it happen. Sadly, on Nov. 7, 2022, Mike passed. He was thankful for the friendships he developed, as he cherished each one of them. We will continue to operate as usual, just without that prince of a man.

In remembrance of Terry Graham Sunday, Dec. 4, from 3-7 p.m., at the Lions Club, behind the Gulf port Marina. Music, karaoke, BYOB, bring a dish if you wish. Everybody who knew Terry Graham, friends, come on.

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

Computer Service

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

CLEAR NUMBERS BOOKKEEPING

Caregivers

HOMEWATCH

CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area. Family owned and local business. Provid ing in-home personal aid companion care, after surgery care, 24-hour care, demen tia care, postpartum support, childcare, to name a few. 727-914-7472. hwcg.com/StPete-Beach AHCA #299995153

Cleaning/Housekeeping

RETIRED COUNSELOR Help around the house, organizing, cleaning, food plan ning and prep. Licensed medical. Paper work. Freelance. Call Vicky 813-296-9575.

COMPUTER SERVICES

727-343-2838

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

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL HANDYMAN Bath rooms, kitchens. drywall, painting, custom high-end finishing. Any job undertaken, hon est pricing. Insured, reliable. 347-973-0814.

Home Improvement

Electrical

AC ELECTRIC

727-345-3108

Over 30 years experience. Residential & com mercial, new or remodel work, service up grades, lightning arrestors, fans and lighting installed. State license #ER0007653.

Handy Person

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy help ers. Skilled labor, anything around the house from A-Z. Weeding, rock gardens cleaned, mulch, sod, and plants installed. Small trees planted and removed. Pressure washing. Free estimates. 30 years experience. Local ly 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.

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS, CUSTOM STEPS, & REPAIRS

Custom concrete patios, driveway exten sions, walkways, small slabs & all types of repairs. 35 years experience. Call Mark for a free estimate: 813-859-2023.

AMERICAN BUILDERS GROUP LLC

Residential/Commercial. All phases of remod eling 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. 727-410-7323.

DARCY ROOFING LLC

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

Attorney/Legal

TREE SERVICE BY PAYLESS

Tree removal, trimming, stump grinding. Also do yard work, mulching, weeding, and yard clean up. Call for estimate: 727-641-9033.

DEPRESSION BIPOLAR 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:// dbsatampabay.org

NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber now provides Notary Services (in office only) at 2908-B Beach Blvd S., 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.

THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out. Recycling, organizing, and yard work. Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/ text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

Moving / Hauling

ARRON’S HAULINGONE CALL HAULS IT ALL

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

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

Help Wanted

SEEKING REAL ESTATE ADMINISTRATOR

NATIVE GARDENING & LANDSCAPING SERVICES

Gardening services o ered for those wanting to bring life and color to their homes! I specialize in plants that are native to Florida, but at Native Jungle, we are happy to help with curating a beautiful landscape designed for you. Call or text 813-997-5478.

Full service removal of junk/trash for your home or business. Appliances, furniture, TV, carpet, concrete, yard debris, paints/chemicals, overgrown lawns, etc. Hoarding, eviction, foreclosure clean outs. 727-623-7219.

SKIP’S MOVING & PICK-UP DELIVERY

Have 14 foot box truck, willing to help. I’m the guy who moves everybody in and out of Town Shores. Available Monday thru Sunday. Call: 727-320-3297.

Painting

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

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

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

CHRISTIANSON PAINTING 30 years experience. Interior and exterior work done the old-school way; strong customer service. References. Lic #C-11520. Call or text Mark 727-452-4938.

Are you an experienced professional who understands the real estate market, with an eye for detail and great communication skills? We need an organized team player with fabulous customer service skills, marketing know-how, and who can think on their feet. Send an email introducing yourself along with your resume to gulfportconnection@gmail.com

HELP WANTED Very part-time, light groundskeeping/housekeeping position in Pass-A-Grille. Great for retirees or students. $15/hr. Contact 727-360-8844 or email resume to info@innonbeach.com.

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED

Senior couple seeks reliable housekeeper. Duties include vacuuming, dusting, mopping, changing linen, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens and laundry help. Every Thurs or Friday, Noon to 5 p.m. $25 per hour. References and background check required. Call or text 301-850-1970.

LOOKING FOR FEMALE PT WEEKEND CAREGIVER

Seeking weekend female caregiver(s), some personal care. Sat. & Sun. 3-5 p.m. and/or Sat. & Sun. 9-10 p.m. Experience preferred. Non-smoker strongly preferred. Call 404-822-4327.

Marine Repair

PART TIME SALES ASSOCIATE - 10-20

HRS/WK

Retired and looking for something to do, extra income, or just need a PT job? We are an upscale boutique in John’s Pass for 40 yrs. Sales/Customer service experience required. $13hr + incentive plan. Call 727709-1970 & leave message. Email resume: mailboat@wildtimecaribbean.com

WANTED: KARAOKE CD’S Prefer older music. Call Don: 727-422-5394.

Yard / Garage Sale

YARD SALE - SAT., DEC. 3 6219 13th Ave S, Gulfport. 8 a.m - 1 p.m. Furniture along with household and Christmas items available.

Pass-a-Grille Beach Community Church THRIFT SHOP

17th Ave & Pass-a-Grille Way

Regular Hours: Tues., Thurs., Sat. 9 a.m. - 12

Donations Welcome September thru May 15, 2023

Furnished Rentals

FOR SALE For Sale - Holton trumpet, good condition - $350. JW Pepper vintage valve trombone - $650. Electric scooter ramp - $150. Alvarez Acoustic guitar with hard case, like ne -, $250. Call or text 727-7987124 for details.

FOR SALE

NuWave Oven/Fryer - $75 or obo. Brand new NuWave Nutripot digital pressure cooker, 6 port - $75 obo. Brand new in box Hunter ceiling fan, white - $75. Conn 8D french horn, excellent condition - $1,200. Vito clarinet - $50. 727-776-9739.

BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF BOCA CIEGA BAY Quiet! Friendly! 4902 31st Ave. S., 2nd floor S., Gulfport. 1/1. No pets. No smoking. Any age. Long-term only. $900 per month + utilities. 1st & last. Email: ramaran@galt. biz or call: 727-343-3843 for information sheet or appointment.

Real Estate For Rent

ST PETE S. APARTMENT RENTALS

Our

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF FICTITIOUS NAME REGISTRA

TION Castle Ridge Resources Inc, owner, desiring to conduct business in Florida under the fictitious name “Randall Interi or Finishes of Florida”, intends to register said name with Division of Corporations, Florida Department of State, pursuant to Florida Statutes section 865.09.

Pets / Animals

LOST CAT

Lost female gray calico. Very skinny and skittish. Last seen around Gulfport Marina and possibly spotted at 9th Ave N. & 49th St. N. Spayed in October. Call/text 727-5993355 or 727-557-6600 if found.

Real Estate For Sale

TOWN

2BR/2BA condo for sale. $264,900. End unit with lots of natural light. View of the recre ation center and gulf beyond. For further in formation call or text 727-403-1714.

Available

near Stet son, all amenities, WD, Smart TV, fully fur nished with style, WiFi, stainless applianc es, cooking and dining ware, linens, smart TV, guest bedroom, master suite, home of fice. $4,000 month. 727-793-7055.

6344 8th Ave. S. (Stetson)

Although listed for $410,000, this 1,344-squarefoot, three bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home, built in 1955, sold for $425,000.

Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week

6100 Gulfport Blvd. S., #408 (Stetson)

This 1,114-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1973, listed and sold for $315,000.

3114 59th St. S., #103 (Town Shores)

This 1.060-square-foot condo, built in 1972, has one bedroom and one bath. It listed and sold for $219,000.

3114 59th St. S., #209 (Town Shores)

This 1,120-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1972, listed and sold for $300,000.

5317 19th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This 1,431-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1952, listed for $369,000 and sold for $315,000.

The Gabber lists real estate sales every week, as space allows. This may not be a comprehensive list of all homes and condos sold in Gulfport, and often does not include commercial properties or business sales.

CATHY SALUSTRI

“My mother was in the knitting club, too! Oh, it’s fun. We sit and gossip and chit chat.”

talk about everything, losing track of time until someone says, “Oh, it’s time to eat!”

Tradition is Ageless

They enjoy fitness classes and events together as well as local excursions. Their days end when Helen and Barbara each say, “I’ll say a prayer for you!”

Thirty years ago, a group of knitters at Watermark noticed some kids at their local schools needed warmer winter clothes. And so, a tradition began. 11,000 handmade sweaters later, they still get together every week and the walls of their meeting room are covered in photos of kids they’ve helped, including one little girl who was drawn to a bright pink sweater even though it was two sizes too big. She wore it day in and day out, even to bed. It made her happy.

Let’s Start a New Tradition

“I never thought I’d find my best friend at age 97.”

Helen,

And that’s why they keep knitting, generation after generation. Bringing people joy is one of their traditions – just like creating communities where people thrive is one of ours.

Call 727-202-3474 to plan a private tour and consultation. Meet residents who are thriving in our upbeat environment. Scan QR code or visit whatisageless.com/BCB

1255 Pasadena Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33707

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE Skilled Nursing at The Springs, Operated by Summit Care Inc.

FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083 22-BCB-6914

Watermark Resident

Kaye, Watermark Resident, Knitting Luminary