The Gabber: December 16, 2021

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2739

December 16 - December 22, 2021

Santa Overload

By Abby Baker

ABBY BAKER

Santa Rampage brought hoards of Kris Kringle impersonators to downtown Gulfport to celebrate the holidays.

Two weeks before the head elf will make his rounds through Gulfport, the city’s main drag, Beach Boulevard South, boasted a boatload of Santa and Santa-adjacent revelers for Santa Rampage.

Now in its second year, the Witches of Gulfport organized the event.

Witches of Gulfport, which has a group on Facebook, also organizes Halloween dress-up events. SIK Promotions owner Suzy King, runs the

Looking for more great Gabber stories?

page and the group. King says she posted the Santa event on the Facebook page this year (the event took a hiatus in 2020.)

The idea exploded.

Santa continued on page 8

When you’re done with the print edition, hop over to thegabber.com to read our review of American Stage’s holiday show, get the 411 on the new exhibit at the St. Petersburg Museum of History, and get the latest crime coverage.

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Reporters & Contributors

Abby Baker, Events Editor & Breaking News Jim McConville, News + Politics Mike Sunnucks, Crime, Courts and Cops Gabrielle Reeder, Gabs & Beaches Jeff Donnelly, Theater Morgan Banno, Food Nano Riley, Environment June Johns, Photographer Sheree Greer, Advice Jon Kile, Columnist

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

publisher’s note Let’s Rebound Together This past Saturday, Barry and I received our $50 in Gulfport Rebound vouchers. We’re not sure where we’ll spend them, but they’ll definitely get spent. On the other side of the spectrum, one of my friends won’t use hers because she says she doesn’t need the help. That’s fine, and completely her prerogative, but if you’re considering not participating, take a moment and think about how spending those vouchers strengthens our community.

Let’s say you take your $50 and spend it at a local eatery. Sure, that eatery might look busy, and maybe you think to yourself, “they don’t need my money” but here’s what you may not realize: That restaurant is paying more for food than it did a year ago, and, in many cases, has a higher payroll because many food service workers didn’t return to the industry after the pandemic, creating a more competitive job market. So even though that restaurant isn’t obviously struggling, that extra $25 or $50 you spend helps.

If you, like me, have the Amazon van in front of your home so frequently you’ve thought about getting the driver a holiday card, these vouchers help you extend the sentiments of Small Business Saturday.

Locally owned shops like Zaiya, Stella’s Sundries, Reef Dog or Red Hot Tiki – to name a few – accept the vouchers.

Ever heard of buying a “suspended coffee”? That’s when someone buys a cup of coffee, but tells the coffee shop to use the money to pay for a coffee for someone who can’t, for whatever reason, afford it. Sumitra practices this, and they accept vouchers for suspended coffee.

Thanks to Gulfport’s city manager, Jim O’Reilly, the council expanded the program to include local nonprofits, and the Gulfport Multipurpose Senior Center Foundation (membership: $35), Gulfport Historical Society (membership: $20$1000) and Project FREE (you can buy the student art at their shop] all accept Rebound vouchers.

If a Gulfport friend struggles to meet basic bills, go to city hall, give them your friend’s name or address, and pay their water bill with the vouchers. (Please note: You must bring the vouchers to city hall!)

Finally, we have a few folks who advertise in our classified section who always pay cash – sometimes with the change in their pocket – and I know they’d love to hear that someone paid for their ad for a week or two. Our operations manager, Debbie Dunbar, can discreetly make sure those vouchers help a classified advertiser who needs a boost – so they can spend that found $25 or $50 on something for their kids.

However you spend it, let’s rebound together.

– Cathy Cathy@thegabber.com

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news Residents Ask Gulfport to Arrest Homeless Man The City Refuses, Explains Homelessness is Not a Crime

By Jim McConville

CATHY SALUSTRI

Although not at the council meeting, Charles Crudup later praised the city manager for understanding that people can legally be homeless. The city has created a semi-secure space for Crudup’s belongings.

Gulfport City Council got a crash course on the wide range of public opinion voiced when a homeless person becomes a fixture in town.

More than a dozen residents spoke to the council Tuesday night (Dec. 7) to air their grievance or concern for the plight of a man known to Gulfport citizens as “Charles,” – his name, The Gabber learned, is Charles Crudup – a visible presence seen around Clymer Park and sitting on a bus stop bench on Beach Boulevard.

Gloria Eckhart, who identified herself as a former psychiatric social worker for the Veterans Administration, started, asking what had happened to Crudup.

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“I want to know if someone has intervened; Charles is no longer there,” Eckhart said. “I would like to know if he is safe. Does he have shelter? I would hate to think that this man is running the streets with none of his belongings.”

In response, City Manager Jim O’Reilly said he’d convinced Crudup to let O’Reilly drive Crudup to a homeless shelter in Safe Harbor, but Crudup did not stay at Safe Harbor.

“I met with Charles on three separate occasions,” O’Reilly said. “We did transport him to the shelter; he chose to come back.” O’Reilly said the city, with Crudup’s permission, gathered Crudup’s possessions, placed them on a pallet covered

with shrink wrap and placed them in a fenced area adjacent to city property.

Several residents expressed frustration with what they claim is Crudup’s license to roam unfettered around Gulfport residential property.

Paula Parnell, a Beach Boulevard resident and self-described snowbird, said she returned to her Gulfport home in November to find Crudup on her property.

“When I returned last month, I found an unwelcome trespasser living in front of my house,” Parnell said. “I feel completely powerless and violated by a person who puts a shanty up in front of my house.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Please, we need to do something to protect homeowners.”

Parnell did not mention whether or not she called the police. She alleged that since Crudup has been turned away from several homeless facilities in the past, he likely would continue to return to Gulfport.

“I don’t want to have that nightmare again; I don’t want to live that way again,” Parnell said.

Other city residents asked whether the city can exercise any vagrancy law to remove Crudup from the city.

“You said that you are taking it one step at a time,” said Suzy Zoll.

“You did take one step. Now it’s time to take the park bench out.”

Zoll asked if Gulfport could prosecute Crudup for vagrancy or loitering.

“Why does the city manager allow this to happen? Do you want the city to be like San Francisco, `Tent City?’”

Zoll asked. “So, he can defecate and urinate on the street and in public – where does he go?”

O’Reilly said state and federal

Gulfport gathers

law covering transients such as Detroit to 51st Street South, a year Charles has changed from prior ago, said Gulfport needs to put years. their homeless plight in perspec “He (Charles) is going to be tive with other cities. around,” O’Reilly said. “We cannot “If you think you have a homeless put restrictions on him; we cannot problem with two or three people, criminalize his come to Detroit and “He (Charles) is going to see what is going on behavior.”

Lisa Hunt, be around,” O’Reilly said. there,” Ponder said. who lives “We cannot put restric- Ponder said homeacross the tions on him; we cannot lessness is solved street from the by funding mental Gulfport Public criminalize his behavior.” health programs.

Library, expressed concern that “It strikes me that some of the there may be other homeless acpeople that are against hometivity in the library parking lot. lessness, are also against funding “I’ve seen a lot of ‘goings on’ in helping these people,” Ponder said. the library,” Hunt said. “Having a “So, try that.” young child, it’s a little scary. And On Wednesday, Dec. 8, The Gabber there’s actually someone living in spoke with Crudup and let him know the library parking lot in his car for locals had, at the prior night’s council over a year now.” meeting, discussed his presence and Hunt said someone came onto asked him if he wanted to comment. her property to ask to use an elec Crudup praised the city manager trical outlet to charge a cellphone for protecting his rights. and suggested the city create a “It’s my American right to be special fund to assist those in the wherever I want,” Crudup told The area with mental issues.

Gabber. “It’s my right to be whoever Bob Ponder, who moved from I want to.”

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Fireworks and Computers

Notes from the Dec. 7 Gulfport City Council Meeting

By Jim McConville

Gulfport Council voted to pay $25,000 for New Year’s Eve fireworks.

While most of the Dec. 7 Gulfport City Council meeting focused on whether or not the city would arrest a homeless man in the park (see related story, p. 4), city council spent some time talking about fireworks and computers.

Fireworks Gulfport council voted to limit the sale and use of fireworks. The ordinance, which council passed unanimously, would set a cutoff time for

lighting fireworks on state-designated holidays (this includes New Year’s Eve.) If the ordinance passes on its second reading, this means no more fireworks after 11 p.m. on those holidays.

Last month, Vice Mayor April Thanos asked the council to consider amending Chapter 14 of the city’s code, hoping to apply the city’s noise ordinance to fireworks. Council agreed, and now, on the three state-sanctioned days allowing fireworks, people

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must stop lighting fireworks by 11 p.m. or face a noise ordinance violation.

Chapter 14 prohibits the sale and use of fireworks in city limits. However, the state now allows fireworks sale and use on New Year’s Eve, Day, and the Fourth of July, and on those days, residents may light fireworks –provided they stop by 11 p.m.

Fireworks remain illegal at all other times.

In other fireworks-related news,

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Overheard at the Dec. 7 Gulfport Council Meeting COURTESY CITY OF GULFPORT

city council also voted unanimously to spend $25,000 on its own New Year’s Eve display, provided

by J&M Displays. The city will close Williams Pier at 7 a.m. on Dec. 30, designate a “no boat or anchoring zone” with at least a 900-foot radius around the Williams Pier 24 hours before the display, and close the Casino boat dock and – if needed – remove or relocate vessels by 6 a.m.

Computers Council also approved a resolution to spend $40,399 to replace old laptops for Gulfport police officers. Officers have these laptops – called mobile dispatch units – in their patrol cars. The county dispatches calls via laptop, and officers use them to access information about suspects or calls.

In a memo to city council, IT and Library Director Dave Mather explained that, due to a worldwide glass shortage, the computers wouldn’t ship to Gulfport until March.

“I am aware that in the proposed Senate redistricting, the City of Gulfport has been split in two. I’ve received calls from the citizens of Gulfport who are concerned about that split. I want you to know that I am also concerned about the splitting of Gulfport in two.” –Florida State Senator Darryl Rouson (D), representing the state’s 19th District. Rouson serves on the Senate sub-reapportionment committee that will re-draw the state’s congressional lines.“ “We have a Scout Hall over here where a wall moved, causing a section of the ceiling to fall in five months ago. That’s a beautiful hall to hold meetings. We’ve been putting off holding a couple of big events because the kids wanted to use that particular hall. I suggest that we at least budget money in the future to make the repair in that hall, so we can get back to using it.” ­­–Tony Angel

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ABBY BAKER

ABBY BAKER

Santa continued from cover

The Grinch at Gulfport’s Historic Peninsula Inn.

David Falwell sweating in his rubber ornament suit.

“It’s really a lot of fun and comradery; we never intended it to be an actual event. We just wanted to get dressed up,” King said. “The witches are the people that like to have fun; that’s our audience.”

The rampage began with a mischief of elves, cigarette-smoking Santa Claus impersonators, reindeer and even a neon green Grinch at the Historic Peninsula Inn.

The oversized crowd marched single file to the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, led by the Gulfport Gecko Amalgamated Marching Band, and then spread throughout city for the rest of the day.

“The inspiration is just to spread joy and love throughout the year,” said Tim Anderson, one of the Santas. “‘Til next time,” King said.

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Three Stories High

A FRONT ( Dubbed a “Family Compound,” Duplex Home is Built with Shipping ContainersUNIT SCALE: 1/4" = 1'-0" A free spirit by nature, Connie Wilhelm-Miller received City of Gulfport approval for her three-story shipping hybrid home this year after two years of variance hearings. The home will include an elevator, winding staircase and elevated crosswalk connecting a mother-in-law suite.

Two years ago, DC-area native Wilhelm-Miller teamed up with poker-faced engineer Buba Barrow to make her plans a reality on her lot at 2931 49th St. S. “The advantage of this is that it’s hurricane resistant, fire resistant, termite resistant,” Barrow said. “We’re killing less trees, avoiding chemicals.”

If anyone would know it’s Barrow.

The Georgia Tech graduate speaks with a heavy African dialect in a way that commands attention. He’s also the engineer behind St. Petersburg’s shipping container home at 15th Ave. S. Modifications After navigating COVID shutdowns and City of Gulfport variance hearings, Barrow Construction finalized a blueprint for a home that blends shipping containers and a brick bungalow unit in the front.

It’s not exactly what the team envisioned.

“Right away, in a December 9, 2020 meeting, they shot me right down,” Wilhelm-Miller said. “When I came here I thought it was a bohemian community that would be open to this.”

Gulfport Community Development Director Fred Metcalf says the plans had to be modified to include a mix of materials other than shipping container metals, not due to the nature of the shipping container home itself, but because of city guidelines.

“It was the second floor … it had to be set back a couple of feet,” Metcalf told the Gabber. “That would be applicable to anything you built.”

The change in plans called for Wilhelm-Miller and Barrow to add a blend of reinforcing brick that “tripled the cost” of construction, they said.

BUBA BARROW

By Abby Baker

The plans for Connie Wilhelm-Miller’s home, built with shipping containers.

UNIT Afuture NORTH ELEVATION SCALE: 1/8" = 1'-0"

That, with a heavy sprinkle of COVID-related supply issues resulted in a costly project, despite any initial ideas of cost-effective shipping container construction.

“It had nothing to do with the home being made from shipping containers,” Metcalf said. “She may have believed that, and we faced a lot of interface with her and her design team, but we wouldn’t tell anyone ‘no’ as long as they met all applicable codes.”

Overnight Walls Regardless, the home will be built with “as much container metal as feasible while keeping within constrictive Gulfport design guidelines,” says Wilhelm-Miller.

The 12-by-14 foot containers [each costing roughly $6,000] once transported materials over the ocean. For the Gulfport homeowner, they represent a new beginning.

“I was dreading coming to Florida … but when I saw this community I was like, sold,” Wilhelm-Miller said.

She moved here for her mother, whom Wilhelm-Miller plans to move into the mother-in-law structure as a sort of ‘family compound.’

As of Dec. 10, the shipping containers are still parked in a Tampa lot, but once they make landfall in Gulfport, the process will take about a year, Barrow estimates.

“It’s been a roller coaster ride, but I am so excited and so grateful to be where I am now,” Wilhelm-Miller said.

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

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Renaissance Dad: The Ghost of Christmas Music Present Look out, Dad’s about to go a little Scrooge here. I have a holiday season complaint. No, I’m not going to moan about Starbucks cups. No, it’s not about saying Happy Holidays vs.

Merry Christmas. People were drinking coffee from agnostic cups and saying “Happy Holidays” long before these were weapons in the War on Christmas. I’m not going to rant about the holiday decorations that went up in October. I have bigger things to complain about. Namely…

Two of the six presets on our radio switched to Christmas music on November 1. This means that one-sixth of the year is nothing but Christmas music. This means “Santa Baby” will play for more than 2,000 minutes – on a single radio station before New Year’s.

I’m a bit of a music snob who listens to WMNF and insists on talking about bands you’ve never heard of. But I like Christmas music – at Christmas. My kids like other sta-

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MONICA KILE

By Jon Kile

Jon Kile, enjoying some holiday music with his daughter in December... as Santa intended.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

tions and my wife likes the hits of the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, “and more”.

Right now, “more” means more Jingle Bell Rock.

Good Christmas songs exist. I’m a sucker for Michael Bublé crooning a Yule tune. Bing Crosby and David Bowie on “Little Drummer Boy” is a cringy classic! Heck, I even like Jose Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad” (all 19 words, written in 10 minutes and recorded in a single take). But this cheery playlist also has some major clunkers. I give you, the definitive list of worst Christmas songs: 5. Mariah Carey, “All I Want For Christmas Is You” It’s not her. It’s the frantic tempo. This song makes me feel like it’s 11:59 p.m. on Christmas Eve and none of the presents are wrapped.

4. Any song by Trans Siberian Orchestra This orchestra with cheesy electric guitars is music for people who don’t like music. I was shocked to learn that Trans Siberian Orchestra does not come from a remote Soviet village where a KGB experiment created a society of virtuosos.

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3. Any song by Pentatonix I still remember exactly where I was standing when a grown man introduced me to this a cappella group from hell. I thought, “You’re a psychopath and we will not be friends.” I was right on both counts.

2. Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer This song has aged like Jeff Foxworthy jokes and the Billy Bass wall-mounted singing fish.

1. Paul McCartney, “Simply Hav-

ing A Wonderful Christmas Time” Hey Jude, this song is bad. There’s a scene in the new Beatles Documentary when Yoko is screaming into a microphone. It’s because Paul was writing this song.

It doesn’t have to be like this. In the ‘80s, radio played one Christmas song, Band-Aid’s famine anthem, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” and every (white) pop star sang on it. They admonished other (presumably white) people to feed “them.” Well, their heart was in the right place, even if the lyrics weren’t.

Alexa, play the Jackson 5 Christmas Album.

Jon Kile is a stay-at-home dad, writer and amateur homeschool teacher in St. Pete. He and his wife Monica, a nonprofit consultant and marathoner, have a habit of loading their two kids into their RV and disappearing down the backroads of America. After he was diagnosed with a rare condition called Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Jon adjusted his lifestyle while finding inner peace and humor.

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business Business Beat: Food Truck, Mermaids + Mental Health All the Latest Local Biz Bits in Gulfport and St. Petersburg

By Abby Baker

Most know John Riesebeck from his Gulfport place for ribs – Smokin’ J’s Real Texas BBQ – but lately his restaurant has been the parking place for an American flag-wrapped food truck on Sunday nights and Monday afternoons.

Ted Easterbrook, owner of Ted’s Firearms in St. Petersburg, owns the Patriot Grill Food Truck. Easterbrook also runs Hot Pursuit Catering and BBQ, a mirror food truck that shows up for office parties and outdoor events.

Riesebeck is a partner in the concept, and the two have set out to bring the Patriot Grill to places like Dog Bar on Central Avenue and Smokin’ J’s on Sunday nights.

Why the heavy patriot themes alongside cookout favorites?

“This is America,” said Easterbrook. “I believe in this country, I love our military and I love what the constitution stands for. But this isn’t political.”

Both business partners [and cooks] deny any ties between the food truck itself and political parties, but Riesebeck received both positive and negative feedback concerning the design of the vehicle.

“It’s not that the food truck is political, it’s the people that make it political,” Riesebeck told The Gab-

ABBY BAKER

We the Brisket

The heavy themes of the American government have put off a number of potential customers, and excited others, said Riesebeck.

ber. “I made a Facebook post about it and in five hours it became a huge political debate in the comments … some people love it.”

The truck first made an appearance at VETSports Heroes Weekend on the Gulfport Beach Volleyball Courts this past November; Easterbrook donated profits to a veteran’s charity.

“It’s not Smokin’ J’s; it’s not Hot Pursuit,” Riesebeck said. “It’s a food truck.”

For now, the two-man BBQ show lives on in the Smokin’ J’s parking lot on Sunday nights from 10 p.m.-12 a.m.

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The pair sell BBQ, hot dogs, hamburgers, philly cheese steaks, and similar food items around St. Petersburg while they ‘work out the kinks.’

Although Gulfport doesn’t allow food trucks on public property, on private property, they’re OK. “They [food trucks] must be on private property,” Gulfport City Manager Jim O’Reilly told The Gabber. “They are prohibited on public property, according to the ordinance.”

A Missing Face Wendy Ohlendorf runs Mermaid Mercantile, a metaphysical crystal and jewelry boutique on Gulfport’s Beach Boulevard – but she’s been out of commission while the shop sells on for over six weeks.

The Portland, Oregon native is recovering from invasive back surgery, and has been mostly out of the shop, barring visiting on First Friday Art Markets and other events.

“It’s so annoying, it’s really hard knowing every stitch of inventory … going from that to relying on others,” Ohlendorf said. “I love the

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

MERMAID MERCANTILE

Mermaid Mercantile owner Wendy Ohlendorf has been out of the shop for more than six weeks with a back injury, but the boutique remains open.

shop. It really is hard for me to be laying in bed.”

Ohlendorf hired an additional part time staff member to aid her, but she’s looking forward to making it back as soon as her body allows it.

“Little by little I’m getting better … there’s too much I want to do in life to just allow this to take over,” the business owner said. “I love this community, and I think people really love my little boutique.”

Previously, the business owner ran Vintage Small Bites & Wine Lounge in the Gulfport Beach Boulevard courtyard and worked (and continues to work) as a fashion designer.

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Cypress Wellness Center wants to expand and add six additional mental wellness professionals.

Owner and therapist Dr. Katie Schubert says she’s expanding through the wall of the closed next door salon at her office (563 49th St. S.).

“Right now, we are a group of 16 mental health therapists,” Shubert said. “We are looking for art therapists, social workers, and wellness professionals for our expansion in mid-January.”

The center will either hire or rent the space to professionals. Shubert has an additional location on Central Avenue

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13

crime March Trial Set for Gulfport Ballet Instructor

Servy Gallardo Charged with Lewd & Lascivious Molestation of Teenage Student

PINELLAS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Gallardo co-founded Gulfport-based St. Petersburg Ballet Conservatory.

The Pinellas Circuit Court has set a Mar. 1, 2022 trial date for a Gulfport dance instructor accused of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old ballet student.

St. Petersburg police arrested Servy Gallardo, 52, in May on charges of lewd and lascivious battery, lewd and lascivious molestation and illegal sexual activity over the alleged inappropriate relationship with the dance student, according to court and police records.

CATHY SALUSTRI

By Mike Sunnucks

Servy Gallardo goes to trial for lewd and lascivious battery in March.

The court has sealed most of the documentation for the case because of the alleged victim’s age.

The public defender’s office will represent Gallardo, who has pleaded not guilty.

Williams said a Jan. 3 pre-trial conference is also scheduled as a precursor to the March trial.

Gallardo, who co-founded St. Petersburg Ballet Conservatory in Gulfport, previously worked as its artistic director. He lives in St. Pe-

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tersburg, and the alleged sexual activity and crimes also occurred in St. Pete at Gallardo’s residence, according to police.

According to an investigative report, the dance student temporarily lived with Gallardo and his wife at their apartment and the alleged sexual activity occurred in February and March of 2020. The student reported the alleged incidents to police in April of 2021.

Gallardo’s wife also filed for divorce in May of this year, according to court records.

Police said after Gallardo’s arrest in May, they looked at whether there might be additional alleged victims.

SPPD spokesperson Yolanda Fernandez said she could not comment whether or not there were any additional investigations involving Gallardo.

The state’s attorney office also declined comment on the case and its details.

Assistant State Attorney Kate Spurlock said the case is an “ongoing criminal investigation and prosecution.”

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Police, Fire Departments Save Two Gulfport Lives

Gulfport First Responders Save Locals Who Overdosed on Opioids Gulfport Police and medical personnel revived a woman who had overdosed on fentanyl on Dec. 3.

The 49-year-old Gulfport woman was found unresponsive on the floor of a home near 18th Avenue South and 52nd Street South, according to police.

Gulfport police officer Hailey Wells revived the woman with Narcan (an emergency treatment for opioid overdoses). She regained consciousness and first responders brought her to a local hospital.

Five days later, on Dec. 8, Gulfport Fire and Rescue paramedics revived a 46-year-old man who was also unresponsive after ingesting an opioid, according to Gulfport Police Sergeant Thomas Woodman.

The overdose occurred near 49th Avenue South and 11th Avenue South.

The Gulfport Police Department has used Narcan 23 times since December of 2019, according to Commander Joshua Stone. Gulfport has seen 26 confirmed overdoses this year, with three deaths and several more deadly overdoses are suspected, according to Woodman, who added that several suspected fatal overdoses still need to be confirmed by the county medical examiner.

That could increase the total overdose count to include as many as eight deaths. The most recent fatal overdose occurred on Dec. 1, when a 38-year-old man died of a suspected fentanyl overdose near 54th Street South and 24th Avenue South. The man was found unresponsive at a Gulfport home and he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.

Both in Florida and nationally, drug overdose deaths – especially those involving fentanyl and other opioids – increased during the coronavirus pandemic and its shutdowns, job losses and mental health strains, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Locally, Gulfport PD reports 47 overdoses (including 13 fatal ones) in 2020 during the depths of the

MARY FARRAND

By Mike Sunnucks

Gulfport police officer Hailey Wells, pictured at her swearing-in, used Narcan to save a woman’s life.

pandemic and its shutdowns and mental health impacts. That compares to 23 overdoses (with three deaths) in 2019. Gulfport’s 2021 overdose numbers are poised to be down from 2020’s surge, but still above 2019’s pre-COVID levels.

The CDC’s latest data shows an estimated 100,306 drug overdose deaths nationally between April 2020 and April 2021. That translates into an increase of 28.5%

from the 78,056 deaths during the same time frame a year earlier. The latest CDC data shows 535 fatal drug overdoses in Pinellas County from March 2020 to March 2021, a 35% increase from before the COVID-19 pandemic and all its impacts. Pinellas had 397 deadly overdoses between January 2020 and January 2021.

Statewide, Florida has seen a 26.2% rise in overdose fatalities

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

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Multipurpose 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.

CLOSED FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 & FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 Fitness Center now open! To provide physical distancing, we’ve limited capacity, so call to register for a spot.

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

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

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

SPECIAL EVENTS Coat & Blanket Drive A little kindness goes a long way. Donate new or gently used blankets & coats for the benefit of those in need through St. Vincent de Paul Thrift. Dec. 6-22. iPhone / iPad Instruction Class Learn the basic functions of your Apple iPhone or iPad. Presented by the Gulfport Library.

Dec. 16, 1 p.m. Please call to register.

Clubhouse Chatter Join this open discussion about MLB and the Rays – the good, the bad, the ugly and what the season could have been. Dec. 17, 10:30 a.m.

Movie Matinee Bring a friend and enjoy a movie on the big screen. Call for title. Sponsored by Freedom Square of Seminole. Dec. 17, 1 p.m.

Holiday Party Celebrate the holiday season with a hot cocoa bar, treats, Christmas lights tours, music from New Horizons, and the announcement of the gingerbread house winners! Dec. 20, 5 p.m. $5 EPIC Coffee Club Join other LGBTQ+ seniors in a welcoming, safe space for discussion, encouragement and growth over a warm cup of coffee. Dec. 22, 8:30 a.m.

Happy Birthday! Celebrate this month’s

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Birthdays with friends, cake, and ice cream.

Dec. 22, 3 p.m.

Join the Band Calling all musicians – and aspiring musicians (especially percussionists): Your best really is good enough with New Horizons Band, whose mission is to give adults an opportunity to play music with others, whether that person is just learning, returning to play after a long absence, or a lifelong player. The Green Band is for beginners, experienced musicians starting a new instrument, or those who want a refresher; the Concert Band plays marches, show tunes, and popular music.

The level of difficulty varies, bolstering confidence while playing simple pieces and improving skills with more challenging works. The Jan. 4: Green Band, 5-5:45 p.m.; Concert Band, 6-8 p.m. $25; please bring instrument and music stand.

MONDAYS Monday Mile Walking Club 8 a.m. Call for location Stretch & Strength 10:30 a.m., Casino Wisdom Healing Qigong 11 a.m., Neighborhood Center Mahjong 12 p.m., Room 107 Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby Chair Yoga 1 p.m., Neighborhood Center Strength Training & Aerobics 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall Chair Volleyball 3 p.m., Dining Hall

TUESDAYS Seated Tai Chi 8:30 a.m., Theater lobby Gulfport Senior Citizens Harmonica Club 9 a.m., Room 107 Tai Chi / Qi Gong 10 a.m., Casino Line Dancing for Beginners 10 a.m., Neighborhood Center Gulfport Quilters 10 a.m., Room 106 Continuing Level 1 Spanish 10:30 a.m., Zoom Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby Wii Bowling 1 p.m., first and third Tues-

days, Room 107 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 9:30 a.m., Neighborhood Center Investment Discussion Group 10 a.m., Room 107 Stretch & Strength 10:30 a.m., Casino Watercolor Painting 1 p.m., Room 106 Bingo 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall Bunco 6 p.m., Room 107

THURSDAYS Seated Tai Chi/Qi Gong 8:30 a.m., Theater lobby Art Summer Open Workshop 9:30 a.m., Room 106 Tai Chi/Qi Gong 10 a.m., Casino Sound Meditation 10 a.m., Neighborhood Center Intermediate Spanish Study Group 10:30 a.m., Room 107 Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby Acrylic Painting 1 p.m., Room 106 Strength Training & Aerobics 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall Contract Bridge 1:30 p.m., Theater lobby Italian Language Classes 6 & 7 p.m., various rooms

FRIDAYS Gulfport Writers’ Workshop 9:30 a.m., Room 107 Wellness Movement 9:30 a.m., Neighborhood Center Restorative Yoga 11 a.m., Casino Bridge Instruction 12:30 p.m., Room 107 Chair Volleyball 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Gulfport Casino Ballroom 727-893-1070 • 5500 Shore Blvd. S. Impacs Sock Hop Special appearance & book signing with Joey Dee (Peppermint Twist) Dec. 17, 7 p.m. $15 or $25/2 at Casino & Gulfport Beach Bazaar; $20 day of.

Ballroom Dancing with USA Dance Lessons, DJ & dance hosts. Dec. 20, 7 p.m. $10; $7, USA Dance members. 727-576-1206.

Swing Time Holiday Dance Party Refreshments, lights & decor. Dec. 22, 7 p.m., lesson; 8 p.m., dance. $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

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. CLOSED FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 & FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 Storytime in the Park Join Miss Cailey for outdoor Storytime fun! Enjoy books, songs, rhymes and bubbles. Bring a chair or blanket if you want to sit during the program. Activities for toddlers and caregivers, but we always welcome additional siblings and family members. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Clymer Park. 727-893-1134.

a team and come to a competitive after-hours program! Light refreshments; prizes for winners. Jan. 11, 7 p.m.

Trivia Night Grab some friends, form

Open Mic Share your talents with a con-

SHINE Presentation: Medicare 101 Trained volunteers provide free, unbiased information and counseling. Jan. 19, 1 p.m.

727-893-1073 for individual appointment with a SHINE counselor.

genial group! Dec. 27, 5 p.m.FMI: Alex Hooks, reference desk, 727-893-1073.

Bird Crafts Celebrate our feathered friends by making handprint cardinals and a beautiful birdhouse. Grades K-5.

Jan. 8, 2 p.m.

Coffee Talk Book Club Brave New World

by Aldous Huxley. Jan. 20, 2 p.m. 727-8931073.

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec CLOSED FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 & FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents Basketball Adult: Wed., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & Thurs.

6-8:30 p.m.

Pickleball All levels: Tues., 6-8:30 p.m. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Beginner: Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Table Tennis Tues.. & Thurs., 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Game Room Mon., Wed., & Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

PROGRAMS Afterschool Program Registrations Continue! Register now for 2021-22 school year child care program for kids entering kindergarten 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 extra charge. Please contact the Recreation Center for more details.

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

Tot-Time Registrations Continue for handson preschool program for children ages 3-5.

The program aims to make learning fun for children and helps prepare them for kindergarten. Two, three and five-day options available on a monthly basis. 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; register Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Proof of residency required for Gulfport residents.

CLASSES Call instructor for more information. Want to teach a class? Call John: 727-893-1079.

Ballet and Tap Tues.: Ages 3-6, 5:45 p.m.;

ages 7-16, 6:45 p.m. $35/month. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594.

Essential Oil Thurs., Jan. 20, 6:30 p.m. $10/ class. Jennifer: 813-263-3919.

F.I.T Tennis Fri., 6 p.m. Free for beginners, ages 21 and up. Chase Park, 5313 27th Ave. S. Mo: 727-515-1454.

Hula Hoop Fitness Every other Thursday, 6:30 p.m. $35/month; $10/class. Maria: mestrada1987@gmail.com.

Tennis Tues., Adult lessons. Chase Park, 28th Ave. and 53rd St. S. $15. Mo: 727-515-1454.

Yoga Moves Hatha Yoga Fri., 9:30 $12/class; $40/month. Denise: 727-251-8868 Youth Hip Hop Ages 6-8: Fri., 6:30 p.m.; ages 9-16, Fri., 7:30 p.m. $35/month. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594 Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m. $20/month; $6/class.

Magda: 727-214-7868

Get the city app by visiting MyGulfport.us/cityapp theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

17

arts freeFall’s ‘The Night Before’ Gives Gift of Cheer It’s the Play You Didn’t Know You Needed

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JOSEPH MICHAEL KENNETH

Local radio stations switched to around-the-clock holiday tunes the day after Halloween this year, which either means radio has just given up or listeners were eager for some cheer at the end of a dreary year. It’s probably a little of both, but who’s really complaining? Argue all you want about the reason for the season, but freeFall knows that music makes the holidays, so they cut to the chase and built a show around it. freeFall’s outreach and marketing director Matthew McGee drives the sleigh for the company’s latest offering, writing and directing “The Night Before” as an alternative to the standard holiday fare onstage this time of year. It’s as if the brain trust over at freeFall plotted the 2021 season and when they got to December, they asked: Is what’s expected the same as what people want? I never know what to expect when I see a show at freeFall, and it took about 10 minutes and a couple of numbers for me to realize they’d taken a favorite part of the holidays – the music – and juiced it with a quartet of jolly good voices and a stocking full of classic tunes – both originals and mashups created by the company’s musical director Michael Raabe.

“The Night Before” does have a plot, one that involves a holiday gathering of close friends on the night before the night before Christmas, but these four characters can barely get through a conversation without breaking into song. That’s a good thing for us, though: Sara DelBeato, James David Larsen, Hillary Lewis and Raabe himself all play joyfully kooky characters as the friends, but the music is the gift, and they deliver.

Plenty of standards make an appearance in medleys crafted for the show, and some stand on their own just fine (because why mess with “Silent Night” when you’ve got Hil-

JOSEPH MICHAEL KENNETH

By Jeff Donnelly

Music makes the holidays, and freeFall Theatre capitalizes on this with its holiday production of “The Night Before.”

lary Lewis to sing it?) And it doesn’t get more right-on than when James David Larsen busts out his guitar for “Blue Christmas” after getting ditched by his Tinder date. Other tunes inject Christmas cheer where you never thought to put it, like in Raabe’s “A Very Sondheim Christmas” mega medley, where Raabe ingeniously re-purposes a slew of familiar Sondheim tunes with seasonal lyrics.

If there’s a Spotify playlist with the original cast recording of “The Night

Before”, freeFall should make it public and send the link. Nat King Cole will never wear out his welcome, but the soundtrack of our lives could always use some freshening up. McGee and company achieve that task in delightful and surprising ways, never losing sight of all that’s merry and bright about this time of year. freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Through Dec. 24: Wed.-Sun., 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. $45$55. 727-498-5205; freefalltheatre. com.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Life’s a Beach – Until Someone Dies

Tara Lush’s ‘Cold Brew Corpse’ Mixes Murder, Nude Yoga and Romance

By Amanda Hagood

VIA TAMARA LUSH

Life is a beach for Lana Lewis, the who knows all the dish on the neighprotagonist of Tara Lush’s new mysbors, but can’t always remember it — tery, “Cold Brew Corpse.” After losto the cheeky names Lush gives the ing her job as a hard-bitten crime town’s hot spots (like rival coffee shop reporter in MiIsland Brewnette), the ami, as well as “Cold Brew Corpse” will novel immerses readreaders feeling ers in a sunny, quirky, divorcing her leave smug TV news cheerful, satisfied, and only-mildly-disturbing husband, she just a little bit warm and world they won’t want returns to her to leave. quirky seaside fuzzy inside.

While we eagerly hometown, Devil’s Beach. She runs wait for Lana and Noah’s amour to Perkatory, a coffee shop inherited unfold, the greatest romance the novfrom her mom, and townies and tourel offers is a passion for coffee, which ists alike go wild for her caffeinated is fragrantly evident in every chapter.

Tamara Lush (who also writes under concoctions and confections, espe “As a journalist, I drank a lot of bad the name Tara Lush) with her Coffee cially her newest offering – cold brew coffee,” Lush explains, “but since movLover’s Mysteries at a recent event at coffee. And love is in the air, with a ing to St. Petersburg, I’ve been able Tombolo Books. heavy crush blooming between Lana to enjoy many quality cups.” Brenand Noah Garcia, the town’s hunky dan Smith (St. Pete Craft Coffee Tour) Maybe it’s just the macchiato talking, chief of police. served as “coffee consultant,” providbut I have a suspicion that, just like But when the body of a local yoga ing the expertise that makes the book’s a perfect cup of coffee, “Cold Brew instructor is found in a nearby swamp, scenes with baristas describing and Corpse” will leave readers feeling Lana can’t resist the lure of a good preparing coffee drinks so deliciously cheerful, satisfied, and just a little bit mystery. As she chases down the storealistic. warm and fuzzy inside. ry, notebook in hand, she plunges into the darker side of paradise: scams and betrayal (and also something called Nude Candlelight Yoga) at the yoga studio. A cold case involving a missing childhood friend. And, worst of all, something’s terribly wrong with the café’s cold brew, which now has a distinctively dishwatery aftertaste.

Cold Brew Corpse is the second of Lush’s Coffee Lovers Mysteries, folAn Arts & Crafts Show lowing the 2020 debut, “Grounds for Murder.” After years of writing roin Downtown Gulfport mance novels, the author returned to Catch those last minute holiday buyers her roots as a crime reporter for the at this holiday art market! new series and enjoys blending what she calls the “puzzles and clues” of mystery plotting with the “emotions and angst” of romances. This marriage of forms comes together wonderfully in the oh-so-close-but-notquite romance between Lana and Noah, who experience a fair measure of sexual frustration, along with the thrill of cracking a case.

The setting’s another high point.

December 18th ,2021 Devil’s Beach is rich in delightful #beachlife detail. From the array of 1:00 – 9:00 eccentric characters – most notably Lana’s dad, a sweetly gossipy, somevisitgulfportflorida.com/indiefaire/ what pot-addled real estate agent

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

A Mother in the Morean

Adopted from China, This 17-Year-Old Hopes Her Musings Make it to the Morean Anderson (Andy) Bray is one of the 15 senior AP art students at Gibbs High School vying for a coveted solo spot in the Morean Arts Center next year.

Bray’s medium of choice is ink - and she uses her ink-splattered hands to carve out things like crows, towering Chinese skyscrapers – and her biological mother, who she has never met.

The gallery grants three exceptionally promising young artists a solo spot in the downtown St. Petersburg gallery each year – and, much like her peers, Bray has been preparing for this since her freshman year.

While most Gibbs students will enjoy their winter breaks far from the idea of school, these art students will wait, phone-to-the-ear to see if the Morean selects their submissions.

“I would cry,” Bray said, diligently working without looking up. “It would feel like such a relief and a reward.”

Her artistic competitor and close friend Reign Fritz agrees as she works on her own Morean submission across the table.

“We’re working on this like we were trained,” Fritz said.

In an Alternate Universe The overwhelming subject of her work is family, but the collection is not a fluff piece.

Bray dives into her nonexistent relationship with her biological mother, who gave her up for adoption in China [2001] during the height of the One Child Policy.

“I used to have a lot of resentment. I was like “why?” I felt that unwantedness and had abandonment issues,” Bray said. “Now I feel really calm toward her. We’re two different people, it feels like two different universes... and I like to think that she thinks about me sometimes.”

Bray channeled that into her eight-piece submission for the Morean, painting the mother figure as a “ghoulish, ghostly creature.”

The artist’s invisible mother is faceless and painfully thin, wisping

“FAMILY OF CROWS” BY ANDY ANDERSON. PHOTO BY ABBY BAKER.

By Abby Baker

“I think my artwork is “inky” … it’s combining traditional aspects with a surrealist feel,” said artist Anderson Bray.

away into the cloudy background.

She pairs these portraits with a murder of crows that live in a family-like unit and sister goldfish, carved with phantom tails mirroring one another.

“It’s weird, I think about if we were a little bit richer, a normal nuclear family in Beijing … I wouldn’t be speaking English, maybe I wouldn’t be doing art.”

At home, 17-year-old Bray’s adopted family offers a support system for her incredibly emotional work.

The ink is where she copes, but it can be complicated when coping

systems leave a trail behind.

“She’s [Bray’s mother] is very supportive... it gets hard for her, I know. It’s hard being a mother and watching me make pieces about another woman,” Bray said. “I’m so thankful for her, I love her very much … more than anything.”

The senior hopes to go to a Florida college with an education program; she hopes to teach art like the faculty who have supported her over the last four years.

“But right now I’m producing art for the show. I can’t think of going to college yet,” Bray told the Gabber.

THE NORTH END TAPHOUSE HAS A DELI-STYLE MENU WITH LOCALLY BREWED BEERS AND MORE.

We have live entertainment every day and Open Mic every Tuesday, located in the Village Courtyard.

Dec 16 John Allen James 6-9pm Dec 17 Dave G & Cristyn 7-10pm Dec 18 Chris Keller 3-6pm Low Tide Charity Ball 7-10pm Dec 19 Liz Pennock & Dr. Blues 6-9pm Dec 20 Closed for Staff Party Dec 21 Open Mic 7-10pm

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Dec 22 Hot Tonic 6-9pm

21

Live, From St. Petersburg!

Radio St. Pete has Bandwidth for Budding Tampa Bay Musicians “In many ways I see St. Pete kind of, if it’s not already, quickly becoming an Austin, Texas, in terms of music. I mean it’s incredible what’s going on, and I think the ability to have it all tied together and make this music available seven days a week, certainly strengthens the local music community,” Joe Bourdow, the owner and founder of Radio St. Pete said.

With more than 700 local artists and a 2100+ queue, Radio St. Pete has two stations for listeners to indulge in local music: Sunshine 96.7 FM and a 24/7 online station, radiostpete.com. Joe Bourdow founded the 501c3 in 2013, and now, with COVID shutdowns and the emergence of “bedroom-produced music,” the music scene is swelling exponentially – and Radio St. Pete gives local musicians a platform.

“One of the really interesting things now is how people, because of the advances in technology, can record really well-produced, great sounding songs in their bedrooms at home. The need for a professional studio is still there; it’s still a great resource to have if you have the resources to do all that, but you can make really good songs sound great right in your bedroom at home,” J. Kolb, Radio St. Pete’s music director, said.

J. KOLB

By Gabby Reeder

The Florida Folk Show, broadcasting on 96.7 FM from the Craftsman House.

“More and more it’s a digital world, there’s less and less demand for CDs, so I think we’re just another way for musicians to get their music heard,” Kolb said. “I don’t know if it’s better or worse, [than streaming services] but I think certainly on the local level, there’s a really wonderful opportunity here to get local musicians and get their music out on the air where people can drive their car in downtown St. Pete and listen to Rebekah Pulley, Charlie Morris, whoever, for free.”

While the station gains traction, the quest to find local artists is ongoing, according to Kolb.

Gulfport Rebound Accepted Here!

Business owners who would like to advertise in the Gabber print or digital platforms, we are happy to accept your Gulfport Rebound Voucher and apply it to your ad costs.

Contact chris@thegabber.com for more info.

Must be used by our January 13 issue (deadline is Jan. 7, 2022)

22

“The word has gotten out, which is great, and so we are now having people come to us, but there’s also a lot of people out there that are aware of the station and maybe just haven’t gotten around to it, and so sometimes there’s a little prodding to get music in there,” Kolb said.

The station’s expanding its event calendar, too. For 18 years, WMNF, a Tampa-based radio station, hosted the Florida Folk Show, a weekly Saturday morning showcase of local folk artists, from St. Petersburg’s Craftsman House. WMNF recently ended their 18-year stint and handed the hosting honors over to Radio St. Pete, according to Bourdow.

Kolb hosts a Sunday afternoon show from 2-5 p.m. and plays 100% Tampa Bay tunes.

“We continue to get great reactions from people that are just finding out about it, and they love to hear that there’s a station that is just about local music,” Kolb said.

Moving forward, Radio St. Pete hopes to host more live events and concerts.

“It’s all about building a sense of community, building this platform, gathering more artists in it and for each artist that comes on and sends songs, they get more of their fans and their family and their friends, and that’s how we’re kind of building this community around Radio St. Pete,” Kolb said.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

From Our House to Yours

Seasons Greetings!

Thinking of Buying or Selling Call Patrick!

Patrick Mortimer PA REALTOR ®

727-220-8600 patricksellsfla@gmail.com theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

23

the gabs What is the importance of giving back?

Photos by Gabby Reeder

Santa Claus, North Pole: “Well, when you’re younger Christmas is all about getting things. When you’re older it’s about giving.”

Quentin Leer, St. Petersburg: “Keep you connected with the community, man. It makes you feel good.”

Mary Pendergrast, Madeira Beach: “I think it’s important to give back to the community because there are a lot of people out there that need help. And if we don’t help them, they’re not going to get to enjoy life like everybody else. We always like to give back. I just do it because I feel like it’s our responsibility.”

Bob Bolles, Seminole: “Oh, you always have to pay it forward. I mean, I’ve been very fortunate in my situation where people helped me, and you have to keep on giving it forward and help other people. Especially right now, things are a little tough for a lot of families.”

Questions about Medicare? I have answers.

LET ME HELP YOU! Independent Sales Representative Florida License W566896

Lisa Pence 24

Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans Medicare Advantage Plans Part D Prescription Drug Plans 727-560-3674 • lpence@jrstoner.com • thestonerorganization.com

Visit theGabber.com and click on the YouTube link to view more of The Gabs!

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

crossword

Solution on page 35

Imaginary Places

gabber on vacation

Solution on page 35

BECKY GUDORF

sudoku

Judi Oliver relaxes with The Gabber at a not-at-all-rustic cabin in the middle of Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont.

She, along with an intrepid group of Florida fans from OLLI at Eckerd, spent three days exploring Clermont and the park.

Have you taken The Gabber on vacation? Send us your pictures! Please send a high-resolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

25

TRAVEL IS FUN TOURS

Licensed FL Seller of Travel #ST12255

727-347-1600

• • • •

Tours Designed with you in mind!

Full Brochures available on all trips!

Over 38 years in business Expert Drivers, Luxury Coaches!

www.tiftours.com

919 Tyrone Blvd, St. Pete, FL 33710

AMELIA ISLAND / FERNANDINA BEACH January 23-25, 2022—3 DAY

Includes: 2 nights at the Hampton Inn Amelia Island at Fernandina Beach Historic Harbor Front Hotel with adjacent views of Cumberland Island an included, guided historic area tour and a Beach Creek Boat Tour. Delicious hot breakfast is included at our hotel each morning. Plus a driving tour along Atlantic Ocean featuring many historic points of interest, then a driving tour with a brief stop in St. Augustine.

COST: $409* per person double or $559 single

NEW ORLEANS ADVENTURE February 13-18, 2022

Includes: 11 meals (5B, 1L, 5D) Drury Inn in Mobile AL 1st & last nights of tour with guided city tour too, 3 nights at Drury Plaza Hotel in New Orleans - 4 blocks from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, New Orleans City tour with local, professional step-on guide, World War II Museum, Harbor Jazz Sightseeing Cruise w/Lunch, Mardi Gras World tour (this is where parade floats are made and stored!)

COST: $949* per person double or $1249 single

• •

• •

•

•

• • • • • • • • •

• • • •

Neptune Grill

5501 Shore Blvd. S. Friday, Dec. 17: Josh Magwood Duo, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Sarah Diamond, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 19: Elliot D., 1 p.m.

North End Taphouse

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S. Friday, Dec. 17: Dave G. & Cristyn, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Chris Keller, 4 p.m.; Low Tide Charity Ball, 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 19: Liz Pennock & Dr. Blues, 6 p.m.

ST. PETE BEACH

More Great 2021 Multi-Day Tours

Jimmy B’s Beach Bar

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

Burgerish Bar & Grille

MAR—Blossoms of the South with Tallahassee & Colquitt, GA—$TBA APR 1-4, 2022—4 Days—Eufaula Pilgrimage—Southern History!...$TBA *Price is Per Person for Double Occupancy DEC. 19, SUN. – “CIRQUE MUSICA” RP Funding Center in Lakeland…$109 JAN. 9, SUN. – “REMEMBERING HEE HAW” Featuring Original Cast Members and an included dinner at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland…$109 JAN. 15, SAT. – SHOPPING WITH WENDY at RED BARN FLEA MARKET in Bradenton Find something new at the Red Barn!...$39 JAN 16, SUN. – “RING OF FIRE” at the at the Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theater in Hudson. Buffet Lunch & Cash Bar (Johnny Cash)…$89 JAN. 20, THURS. – LUNCH BUNCH We return to “MADE” in Sarasota!…$56 JAN. 21, FRI. – WILD FLORIDA—Exotic animal paradise, Drive thru Safari!...$89 JAN. 26, WED. – HISTORY OF ST. PETE TOUR with DOC FORDS lunch…$59 JAN. 28, FRI. – “OVER THE RIVER & THROUGH THE WOODS” matinee...$105 JAN. 29, SAT – KUMQUAT FEST, DADE CITY - 300 vendors & local restaurants…$45 JAN. 30, SUN. - ST. JOHN’S RIVERSHIP Lunch Cruise, Rivership Barbara-Lee..$109 JAN. 31, MON. – TAMPA BAY TOUR & MANATEE VIEWING CENTER…$64 FEB. 5, SAT. - ZOO TAMPA at LOWRY PARK - See Rhino Baby Gronk!!…$89 FEB. 10, THURS. – HIGHLIGHTS OF LAKELAND TOUR On campus at Wynee’s Bistro & FL Southern College guided tour & Local Step on Guide!…$89 FEB. 12, SAT. – FLORIDA STATE FAIR - Food, Livestock, Entertainment!..…$29 FEB. 17, THURS. – LUNCH BUNCH with TODD “ROOSTERFISH” LARGO…$49 FEB. 19, SAT. – DUNEDIN CRAFT FAIR On Dunedin’s Main Street…$44 FEB. 20, SUN. – SEMINOLE IMMOKALEE CASINO “ROCKABILLIQUE” Live Music, Classic Cars, Food Trucks, Casino Action and more…$79

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

WEDNESDAY JAN 12th, 1:30PM at Big Apple Buf fet in Tyrone Gardens or on Youtube live!!

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GULFPORT

6200 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Dec. 17: Donnie O’ Neal, 1 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Ryan Marchand, 1 p.m.

4755 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Dec. 17: Matt Frick, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Beach Bum Larry, 6 p.m.

Woody’s Waterfront

Friday, Dec. 17: J.D. Early, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: J.D. Early, 7 p.m.

TREASURE ISLAND Ricky T’s Bar and Grille

10601 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Dec. 17: Cornfused, 5 p.m.; Big Brother, 7:30 p.m.; and Kyle Rhode, 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Rob Tyre, 4 p.m., Kevin Toon 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 19: Kevin Toon, 5 p.m.

MADEIRA BEACH

Daiquiri Shak Raw Bar & Grille

14995 Gulf Blvd.

Friday, Dec. 17: Kevin Toon, 5 p.m.; Greg Billings & Tony Wagner, 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 18: Jeff Gurney, 6 p.m.

More live music at thegabber.com.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

things to do

Masks Recommended

Social Distancing Observed

Vegan Options

Dog-Friendly

Virtual

Ugly Sweater, Holiday Shows+ Burlesque Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

Thursday, December 16 Retro Night The much-awaited Thursday Night Social is back! The theme of the night is “The Beatles,” so feel free to bring the bowl cuts.

DJ Daniel will be spinning retro 70s’ tunes and holiday jams in the main dining room until 10 p.m. Go for the Cantina’s burritos; stay for the semi-regular jam session. Sea Dog Cantina, 2832 Beach Blvd. S. 6-10 p.m. cantina.seadogbrewing.com.

Friday, December 17 Cookies and Carols Ever wondered what your neighbors’ holiday cookies taste like? Sample (or bake!) frosted sweets at the Gulfport Historical Society Holiday Cookie Contest and Caroling Party. Along with the coveted cookies, the Gulfport History Museum will be chock full of Gulfportians singing spirited seasonal tunes (on the lawn) and chugging hot cocoa. The town’s best bakers are invited to bring a plate of homemade treats to determine Gulfport’s Finest Holiday Cookie.

The judges: Gecko Queen Elizabeth Hendricks, Golden Dinosaurs’ Audrey Dingeman, and A Friend Who Bakes’ Brittney Sherley – the winner takes home cash. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S. 7-9 p.m. $5 cookie entry fee; no charge to sing or taste. gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

Saturday, December 18 Snow on the Gulf Enjoy a (snowless) Snowfest complete with toboggan slides in North Straub Park. Play on inflatables, ride toboggans, explore arts and crafts tents, and soak in the merriment. North Straub Park, 400 Bayshore Dr. NE., St. Petersburg. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $5. stpeteparksrec.org/ holidayevents Another Santa Sighting! Catch Mr.

and Mrs. Claus at Hoyt Field for photo poses, courtesy of the The Boomerangs, the Gulfport Senior Softball League. See the cozy couple and discuss Christmas wishes. Hoyt Field, 2306 56th St. S. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. drroscop@aol.com.

Candy on Canes Gulfport’s third Saturday Indie Faire is back with a theme: Cocktails and Candy Canes.

The Beach Boulevard favorite showcases holiday art and vendors Things To Do continued on page 24

Friday Christmas ‘Carting The 2021 Holiday Golf Cart Parade is making rounds through Gulfport every slightly chilly Friday night in December. Local golf cart owners and their tagalongs will drive through downtown in the brightest holiday cheer they can squeeze onto four wheels. The fun starts at Town Shores, and wraps around the city. Keep an eye out! Downtown Gulfport. 6 p.m. 727-417-5494

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

27

Things To Do continued from page 23

throughout downtown. There will be a visit from Santa and the regular Gulfport lineup. Downtown Gulfport.

1-9 p.m. visitgulfportflorida.com

sweater (or outfit) will win “sexy and ridiculous” prizes. Mastry’s Brewing Co, 7701 Blind Pass Road, St. Pete Beach. 7-9 p.m. 727-202-8045.

Monday, December 20

The Ugliest Digs Get your ugliest sweater ready to blow into Hurricane Eddie’s in Gulfport. The firstplace winner gets a $50 gift card, second place wins a $30 gift card – plus drink specials all night. Best of luck! Hurricane Eddie’s, 5413 Shore Blvd. S. 6 p.m. 727-592-4983.

Ballroom Waltzing Learn to dance, Gulfport style. USA Dance offers ballroom dance presentations and lessons monthly. Get in on the action this Monday. Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. 7-10 p.m. $7-10. usadance.org Tuesday, December 21

Get Down for Xmas Nobody does it like the Blueberry Patch. Jam out to funky psychedelic jam band “The Reality” and fusion rock “Row Jomah” as they share the big blue’s stage. Blueberry Patch, 4923 20th Ave. S. 6 p.m. $10. 727-914-0226.

Holiday Schnockered Burlesque Show Dress in your worst most reindeer-splattered ugly sweater and head to Mastry’s Co Brewing on St. Pete Beach for an 18 and up burlesque show. Burlesque performers and comedic entertainers like Mayven Missbehavin and Ruby Vesper will take the bar by storm. The owners of the most terrible holiday

Gulfportians Stay Informed, live or later. Join The City of Gulfport and fellow residents either in person or through recorded video on the city website. This is the best way to stay up-to-date on happenings in your town. Masks are highly recommended. Those who would like to avoid the crowds are welcome to attend and comment via zoom. Gulfport City Hall, 2401 53rd St. S. 6 p.m. mygulfport.us/councilmeetings/ Ask a Question Do you have some questions about your city? Here’s your chance to ask a Gulfport council member questions, make suggestions or just discuss all things local. This month, chat with Vice Mayor and Ward 1 Representative April Thanos. Gulfport Welcome Center, 3101 Beach Blvd. S. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 727-826-7138.

Movie Night Ft. Elf It’s the time of year where we watch Will Ferrell dress up as an oversized elf and traumatize the people of New York City. Catch a showing of “Elf” at St. Petersburg’s Atelier de SoSi. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Atelier de Sosi, 2380 6th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 5:30 p.m., doors and snack line; 6:30 p.m., film. 727370-4192.

Scrooge Who A holiday favorite theater classic visits the Catherine A. Hickman Theatre for a pre-Christmas weekend of the classic characters. Destination Theater presents a two-person cast – one man plays Scrooge and

28

a one-man acting legend depicts every other character (Tiny Tim, the three ghosts). Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. 7:30 p.m. $21. calliopestagecompany. ticketspice.com/a-christmas-carol-st-petersburg Wednesday, December 22 Watch Out Your community, your crime watch. The Gulfport Police Department’s Neighborhood Watch Program streams on Facebook every Wednesday. Whether the meetings are live or rerecorded – it varies – this is the weekly spot to educate yourself on incidents related to vehicle and residential burglaries, BOLOs and stolen vehicles in the Gulfport area. Post your questions under the video and they’ll answer them the next business day. 1:30 p.m. fb.com/ groups/694674127283494 VT Jazz Out Get your jazz hands up, people. The City of Treasure Island is hosting Wednesday night Jazzercise classes for those who are looking to boogie and burn calories. Treasure Island City Hall Auditorium, 120 108th Ave., Treasure Island. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 23 Night Giftage Shop a vendor paradise of gifts and fresh produce at Sunshine Fresh Market in South St. Petersburg. The market opens at night, and will offer local goods, vegan and island eats and an open mic. Where else can you get stir fry and essential oils at 11 p.m.? Sunshine Fresh Market, 1335 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. 8-11 p.m. 727-4215325.

Tiny Gardeners are invited to enjoy books, songs, rhymes, and bubbles at the gazebo in Gulfport’s Clymer Park as part of a morning time storytime. Bring a blanket or a chair to join in on the fun, not far from the park’s edible food forest. This is a class recommended for toddlers. Clymer Park, Gulfport Blvd. S. & Beach Blvd. S. 10:30-11 a.m. 727893-1134.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Love your selfies. Here’s one from us!

XO, Grandma A sense of community. A sense of adventure. A sense of pure joy.

Irresistible belly laughs over shared meals with friends. The thrill of visiting faraway lands with virtual reality. Sharing your passions and discovering new interests. What will you experience in a setting designed to captivate your senses?

Schedule your private tour. Call 727-202-3474 today.

Learn more about our community: Hover phone camera over the QR code or visit wrcsenses.com/bocaciegabay.

scan with your camera TO LEARN MORE

1255 Pasadena Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33707 • bocaciegabay.watermarkcommunities.com

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE SKILLED NURSING AT THE SPRINGS, OPERATED BY SUMMIT CARE INC.

FLORIDA ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE #0083

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

21-BCB-2661

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The Gabber’s 2022 Pet Calendar

The 2022 Pet Calendar will be here just in time for the holidays.

This pet calendar doesn't feature only cats and dogs – beloved pets of all types grace these gorgeous pages. A portion of the proceeds go to Friends of Strays.

Buy one as a gift and we'll include a note to the recipient.

Go to thegabber.com/2022-pet-calendar and secure yours today!

If you want to pay using Gulfport Rebound vouchers, please come to our office.

We cannot make change for the vouchers, but we will offer you two calendars per voucher – a savings of $5!

30

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

worship Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707

Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

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

- Francis David, 1534

uuunited.org HERE FOR YOU FOR 110 YEARS!

First United Methodist Church of Gulfport Sundays:

28th Ave. S. & 53rd St.

321-3620

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

Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation

Affiliated with

St Vincent’s Episcopal Church

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

Sunday Services 10AM Miss en Español: Domingos 12PM

Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church 2728 53rd St. S. Gulfport, FL 33707

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION 330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach (Blind Pass Road at 85th Avenue)

Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Join us for our Christmas Eve Service 12/24 at 8:00 pm Christmas Carols begin at 7:30 pm.

“O Come let us adore Him” 727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

Paradise Lutheran Church

on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island

(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

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services

5PM DRIVE-IN • 7PM INSIDE 10PM INSIDE

Let your light shine today

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

6856 Gulfport Blvd S • South Pasadena 727-392-6936 • OhSoSweet.com theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

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CLASSIFIEDS

Accounting

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

10+ years experience.

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

Caregivers

If you have questions about advertising, please email us at advertising@thegabber.com or call 727-321-6965! Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

Cleaning / Housekeeping

Electrical

PROFESSIONAL CARPET, GROUT & PRESSURE CLEANING

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

The pollen has finally subsided. Make your home beautiful again. We pressure clean fences, driveways, homes, sidewalks, pavers, stepping stones, pool cages, pool area, you name it we can make it look new again.

40 yrs exp. Excellent references, call 727743-0701 for a free estimate.

HAPPIEST HOUSEKEEPER IN GULFPORT

Just in time for the holidays. I shine and I’ll make your house shine, happily! Merry Christmas, Laura. 727-557-4247 Computer Service JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair – $40 per visit/hr – 727-643-0697, jmswebservices.com

Over 30 years experience. Residential & commercial. New or remodel work, service upgrades, lightning arrestors. Fans and lighting installed. State License #ER0007653.

MAYNARD ELECTRIC • Room Additions • Lightning Protection • Fuses to Breakers • Mobile Homes • Circuits Added • Phone Wiring • Ceiling Fans • Security Lighting & More 24 Hour Service

FREE ESTIMATES

525-0677

Licensed Bonded Insured St. Lic. #EC0002881

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT!

COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838

Now Hiring, Retiree’s Welcomed Non-Medical Home Care • Private Duty Personal Care • Companionship Homemaker Services • No Contracts Licensed, Bonded, Insured Nurse Owned & Operated

Free In-Home Consultation / RN Assessment

CALL TODAY 727-381-7498

www.omnipresentcaregivers.com Care@OmniPresentCaregivers.com

In-Home Services: Internet Security, Training, Virus & SpyWare Removal, Maintenance & Repair, Data Recovery. (PC & Mac).

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493 2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS OF ST. PETE BEACH

Serving the greater St. Petersburg area.

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

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CourtesyElectricFL@gmail.com

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

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND INSURED EC-13008313

Handy Person CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy Helper. 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. Holiday season is near. St Pete /Gulfport area. Call 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

SEMI RETIRED CARPENTER

CAROL’S ERRANDS & MORE

Do you need help with daily activities? I can be of assistance to you! Shopping, Meal Planning/Meal Prep, Transportation To & From Appointments, Help Around the Home, and More. 727-365-0884

727-687-7999

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

thegabber.com

CARPENTER DEPENDABLE Have Tools Will Travel. Trustworthy. Doors, Decks/Eaves/ Rotted Wood, Etc. 30 Year Gabber Advertiser.

Free Estimates, Lic. C-5754. 727-821-9973.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Heat / Air Conditioning

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

BYRON JOHNSON PAINTING PLUS, INC.

Time to refresh the interior/exterior of your house or business? High Quality, Professional Painting. Free estimates. Lic.#9894.

Insured. 727-365-1088 Plumbing

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A.

PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

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

Certified Arborist

“Same rates seven days a week”

NO SERVICE CHARGE EVER! CAC1815513

727

709-7979 www.AirPhillips.com

QUALITY AT WORK

Luke Phillips

3914 6th St S St. Petersburg

Home & Condo Maintenance

D.C. STRONG

Home & condo maintenance • Interior & Exterior • Experienced in all work, A-Z • Insured. Call Dennis Strong 727-301-4530

Home Improvement

TAMPA BAY FLOORS & CARPETS CLEANING SOLUTION

We offer Marble, Vinyl, Ceramic, Grout Cleaning, All Kinds of Carpet Cleaning. We Clean Upholstery, Also Power washing. We Cover All Your Cleaning Needs. We are fully Equipped We are 24:7 Emergency Flooding Service COVID Fumigation Available 727623-7948 Or 813-750-9851 Lawn & Landscape

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Rich Moseley, irrigation contractor. 25 years experience. Reasonable rates. Well & pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

theGabber.com

Planting • Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Cabling/Bracing • Pruning/Shaping

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from PVC fence, siding - stucco - wood, pavers, railings, windows and most other surfaces around your house or business including signage. Cars, too. Free estimate and demonstration. Surprisingly low prices.

Call/text 727-360-7070 Email RustStainRemoval@icloud.com Miscellaneous Service THE TRASH QUEEN Overwhelmed with the mess? Clean up/clean out, inside and out, recycling and organizing, and we do mulching and weeding! Free estimate from Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

Moving & Hauling CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & trash removal. Low, low prices guaranteed. Daily specials. Kitchen, bath, shed, fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-831-0507.

Painting PINNIX PAINTING INC. Interior, Exterior.

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

MASTERS PAINTING * WHEN QUALITY COUNTS Trust Masters Painting. Making happy customers for 42 years. Pressure cleaning, waterproofing, honest, reliable.

727-344-1674. References. Guaranteed.

Lic.#C4749.

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

Positions Wanted WILLING AND ABLE HELPER, LIGHT GARDEN WORK Repotting, weeding, clearing, trimming, watering. I am an able-bodied female who loves being outdoors. I can use your tools and offer my helping hands.

Local lady, raised in St Pete, friendly, happy nature. 727-370-7920

CDL CLASS A DRIVER

and Heavy Equipment Operator for Hire.

Call MG 813-610-7533 Help Wanted OLDER WORKERS NEEDED Paid office admin/clerical training available for older workers through AARP Foundation SCSEP. Must be 55+, low income, Pinellas resident, unemployed & looking for a job. Basic computer skills and proficiency with email & smartphone functions required. Email resume to gkravitz@aarp.org.

HELP WANTED Writer: Prepare written content for mobile app. Bachelor Degree in Journalism or Writing. Send resume: Pao & Co LLC, 1402 Harbour Walk Rd, Tampa, FL 33602

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P/T GEMS DRIVER – Operates a 1012 passenger mini-bus, sedan style automobile, and/or van. Operates hydraulic wheelchair lift as needed while assisting elderly and disabled passengers on and off vehicle. Lifts and carries groceries and personal belongings for clients. Responsible for keeping vehicle clean (interior and exterior). Performs daily safety inspections of vehicle. Ability to make routine decisions in accordance with city and departmental policies, procedures and regulations. Knowledge of traffic laws, ordinance and rules.

Knowledge of the geography of the City and surrounding communities.

Takes reservations/cancellations, registers new participants and collects fees. Operates two-way radio for contacting and dispatching mini-bus drivers. Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.

Ability to lift and carry up to twenty (20) pounds. Experience with the elderly or handicapped is preferred.

Possession of a valid Florida Driver’s License. A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. Entry $14.404/hour. Open until filled. Backgrounds, drug screening and physical will be conducted. Applications accepted at the City of Gulfport Human Resources, 2401 53rd St S, Gulfport, FL 33707 or via fax at 727-893-1005. E.O.E.

For Sale IMMEDIATE MOVING SALE Town Shores.

Drexel Heritage triple dresser and Queen headboard. Tulo Queen mattress, brand new. Various hanging Tiffany lamps, Technic Stereo, Much more. All offers will be seriously considered. Lois 727-289-8086 or 914-318 6485.

Use your Gulfport Rebound Voucher for a Classified Line Ad with a Bold Headline!

Place your classified line ads online!

Gulfport residents: The Gabber will accept your Rebound Vouchers to cover the cost of a line ad with a featured headline!

You must contact us directly to use: classified@thegabber.com

Let us help you get started today!

Must be used by our Jan. 13, 2022 issue (deadline is Jan. 7, 2022)

Health & Fitness NEW SIEMENS/SIGNIA BTE HEARING AIDS(S) $200/$250 EACH. New Siemens/ Signia Behind The Ear hearing aids, for Moderate to Severe hearing loss, BIG hearing improvement! $200 each, or $250 each for Severe to Extreme hearing loss model. 727796-0166

Yard / Garage Sale FOR SALE 2019 King Size Platform bed with 14” Ashley’s Mattress, Excellent condition.

Sheets included. $500. 2 Brown leather club chairs. $20. Men’s Nike Air Monarch tennis shoes, new and used. sizes 7 / 7.5 / 8. In black and in White with blue trim. $20 for the new, $10 for used. (Reg price $70).

Used Clarinet $80. 727-776-9739 ESTATE SALE Whole House: Furniture, Clothing, Sports memorabilia, Tools, Fishing equipment and much more. Everything in good condition or new. Friday & Saturday, Dec17th & 18th. 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

6244 7th Ave S, Gulfport. No early birds.

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

Real Estate for Sale

1.3 ACRE LOT NEAR WESLEY CHAPEL

$65,000

8046 STIMIE AVE.N

$775,000 SOLD

727-418-8948

neldasellsfla@gmail.com

Nelda Hamm

3037 Beach Blvd. S. 505 Pasadena Ave. S.

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theGabber.com

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

solution

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theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021

35

"Her treatments got me back on the golf course" “I hurt my back playing golf. I went to the chiropractor.

I went to the pain institute. I went to the spine institute.

Nothing helped. The pain was debilitating, I went six or seven months without playing.”

This was the case of John R. John would go on to explain that on a scale of one to ten his pain was well over a nine every single day. Regardless of your age, back pain, whether caused by a sports injury, longstanding arthritis or even specific conditions like scoliosis, can severely impact the quality of your life. In short, it stops you from doing the things you love with the people you love and that’s not a great way to live.

On top of that, general practitioners, specialists and surgeons are all too eager to prescribe medications whose side effects are often detrimental to your recovery or recommend invasive surgeries that often have less than desirable outcomes.

Fortunately for the people of the St. Petersburg, Dr. Rebecca Gibbons and her team at Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine have pioneered non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical innovative medical solutions that actually treat your pain!

“My patients are also people who would normally require surgery but would either have a difficult time going under the knife or have simply decided that they would rather explore other options. There is more to healthcare than prescription pills, elimination diets and scalpels,” shares Dr. Gibbons. “By offering several integrative therapies we are able to combat your pain from several angles ensuring the best possible outcome.”

John easily attested to this claim, “I highly recommend her to anybody. I am very thankful that I met Dr. Gibbons and she was able to help me because I can play golf again!”

Each new patient that comes to AAIM receives a comprehensive consultation and then is prescribed a very personalized treatment program that is tailored to their specific needs and goals. “While every treatment I perform is based on a framework cultivated from years of education and experience, no two cases are the same and so every person under my care is treated that way," tells Dr. Gibbons.

One of the modern medical solutions Dr. Gibbons offers is O3 Regenerative Therapy™ which uses prolozone, a technique that involves injecting a solution of natural anti-inflammatory medications, vitamins and ozone into degenerated or injured joints, and into areas of pain. It’s with these injections that John found himself back on the green.

"Unlike other solutions to chronic pain, O3 Regenerative Therapy™ corrects the pathology of the problem, allowing the body to heal itself naturally. This is a wonderful alternative to more traditional methods and incredibly safe and highly successful.”

Dr. Gibbons and the team at AAIM are using O3 Regenerative Therapy™ to treat a myriad of chronic pain issues including neck pain, arthritis, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, chronic injuries and so much more!

To schedule a consultation and evaluation call (727) 272-3587

Achieve Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine 701 49th St. N St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Visit www.ACHIEVEACUIM.COM to learn more and to take advantage of their NEW PATIENT OFFER 36

theGabber.com | December 16, 2021 - December 22, 2021