The Gabber: December 17, 2020 by thegabber

Available for FREE online thanks to the City of Gulfport at THE GABBER.COM No. 2687

December 17 - December 23, 2020

Dawn Waters: Portraits in Fiber By Lynn Taylor

DAWN WATERS

Artist Dawn Waters describes her work as â&#x20AC;&#x153;sugar-coated bundles of detail and slight oddness combined to make unpainted paintings that are arresting and uncanny.â&#x20AC;? Dawn Waters continued on page 24

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Shelly Wilson

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Creative Director Joey Neill

Advertising Director Chris Madalena

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Reporters & Photographers Laura Mulrooney,

News and Politics laura@thegabber.com Jeff Donnelly, Theater Jennifer Ring, Food and Culture Lynn Taylor, Arts June Johns, Photographer Nano Riley, Environment

Social Media & Operations Leah Petrakis

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thegabber.com @gabbernews @gabbernews @gabberlife The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers, advertisers, or employees of the Gabber. The Gabber is not liable for any errors in advertising beyond the cost of the first printing of any advertisement. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced or copied without permission of the publisher.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

announcements Gulfport Holiday Closures Gulfport City Hall and city facilities will close on Friday, December 25 for Christmas Day, and Friday, January 1 for New Year’s Day. Friday’s sanitation routes will be collected on Thursday during both weeks, and Thursday’s routes will be collected on Wednesday. There will be no yard waste collection either week. Residents should call 727-5826177 for after-hours water or sewer emergencies.

Bring Holiday Cheer to Seniors The Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., offers a chance for folks to bring cheer to a senior with a gift for the holidays. Head to the center, choose a gift tag for a deserving senior, and become a Silver Santa Shopper, providing gifts for seniors that might otherwise get forgotten. Silver Santas is a grassroots project that provides gifts during the holiday season to isolated and low-income seniors through providers such as assisted living communities, senior housing communities and guardians or caregivers. For more information, call 727-893-5657.

the event at elections@thegabber. com and from 5 to 5:45 p.m. the night of the event. If you wish to attend via Zoom, please email elections@thegabber.com and ask to be added to the list; you’ll get a link shortly before the event.

St. Pete Beach Library News The St. Pete Beach Library will close at 5 p.m., on Thursday, December 24, and will remain closed Friday through Sunday, December 25 to 27. Regular hours resume Monday, December 28. Happy Holidays! Call 727-363-9238 or visit spblibrary. com.

Be a Part of History Do you have some extra time? Looking to get out of the house? The Gulfport Historical Society has some open volunteer opportunities in December. They need volunteers to docent at the museum, as well as painters to get the Art Center

Got Stuff? Gulfport’s permit-free, city-wide yard sale is back! Gulfport residents, dust off your unused stuff and clear out the clutter on Saturday, January 16 (rain date, Sunday, January 17). Sign up now and get your Gulfport address on the brochure. Sign up by January 8 at 3 p.m. in order to make print deadline. The easiest way to register is at mygulfport.us/ gulfport-city-wide-yard-sale. You can also fill out a form at Gulfport City Hall, 2401 53rd St. S. or the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. Questions? Call Kristin Ossola at 727-893-1118.

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Gulfport Candidate Debates It’s election season again in Gulfport! The Gabber Newspaper and the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce will host the Gulfport Candidate Debates in the Catherine A. Hickman Theater February 11. Barbara Banno, president of the GMC, and Cathy Salustri Loper, publisher of the Gabber, will co-moderate. Social distancing and mask protocols enforced; families and people in the same “quarantine bubble” may sit together in the theater, but two seats will separate people not in the same bubble. Doors open at 5 p.m. for ticket holders; at 5:30 p.m.; remaining seats open to walk-up traffic. The Gabber and the GMC will also stream the events as a Zoom webinar so those who cannot attend can see the debates and submit questions. Submit questions prior to

ready for its grand opening. They also need people to donate paint (or gift cards to a local hardware store) – for the gallery walls. Additionally, they need help with some handyman projects at the Art Center. COVID protocols in place with masks and social distancing. Email info@ gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

To All In Gulfport

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa from Gulfport City Council Member Paul Ray and Wesley Ray

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

news Will Gulfport See a Change in Leadership? By Laura Mulrooney

Gulfport’s election season is here. On Monday, December 14, the City of Gulfport announced the six candidates who qualified to run for Ward 2 and Ward 4. Gulfport elections are citywide, meaning all Gulfport voters

elect councilmembers for each ward. Councilmembers serve two-year terms. The municipal election is March 9, 2021. Find links to candidate filing documents with this article at thegabber.com.

Ward Two Candidates Michael Bauer: Three and half years ago, after retiring from the City of Naples, Michael Bauer and wife moved to Gulfport after a decade of visits. “This is my first venture into politics,” Bauer told Gabber staff. “My life has been about engaging with my community to protect and preserve natural assets and vulnerable resources.” In three words, Bauer describes himself as “honest, dedicated, involved.” MIKE BAUER

CHRISTINE BROWN

Christine Brown (incumbent): Christine Brown describes herself as “experienced, dedicated and qualified.” Brown has lived in Gulfport for 32 years and has spent 30 of those years teaching mathematics at Boca Ciega High School. Brown has been the Ward 2 Councilmember for eight years.

Ward Four Candidates

MICHAEL FRIDOVICH

Michael Fridovich (incumbent): Michael Fridovich has sat on Gulfport City Councilmember for eight years. He’s lived in Ward Four for 11 years. Fridovich says, “If I had to describe myself in three words, I would say leadership, tenacity, experience.” Fridovich works on a variety of projects, including serving on the PSTA board.

Robert Barto: The fourth qualifying candidate for Ward Four withdrew on December 14. “Unfortunately, at this time I am withdrawing from the election due to unforeseen circumstances,” Barto told the Gabber early Monday evening, after the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections confirmed the candidates.

IAN O’HARA

Richard Fried: Richard Fried ran for Gulfport City Council in 2017 and 2019. On his campaign filing paperwork he listed his principal source of income comes from “Westminster Shores” and a rental property. Fried did not respond to the Gabber’s request for comment or submit a photo.

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Ian O’Hara: O’Hara did not respond to the Gabber’s request for comment. On his campaign filing paperwork he listed his occupation as a Winn Dixie meat clerk in Gulfport.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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Operation Santa Prepares for the Big Drop

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By Laura Mulrooney

GPD employee Cindy Hayes kept the baskets of gifts and essentials organized for the families who reached out to Operation Santa. “I do it for the kids, I always keep doing it for the kids,” Hayes said.

At 6 p.m. on a calm, mild evening Monday, December 14, over 20 Operation Santa volunteers burst through the automatic doors of a Target storefront. These volunteers, veterans and newbies alike, had one mission: To ensure no family who asked for help went without for the holiday season. Operation Santa is the Gulfport Police Department’s annual toy drive for families in need. Francine Whitten, leader of organized chaos, has been an integral part of the cause for its almost 30-year run and, even if she won’t admit that to be true, her cohorts and fellow elves all agree: “This wouldn’t be a success without

Francine at the helm,” Operation Santa volunteer and GPD employee Margaret Palmisano said. “It’s all about the children,” City of Gulfport Records Clerk Shirley Dibucci said. “I’ve been volunteering with the event for the past eight years; this is the first year I’ve helped with the shopping, though.” Dibucci added, “I think that we’ve all been, at one time in life, needing help. It’s always about giving back. If it’s as easy as this, just doing a little shopping, why not?” With donations from residents, local businesses, universities and organizations, Operation Santa volunteers spent $2,851.48 at Target, filling carts and fulfilling dreams.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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The Household Electronics and Chemical Collection Center is open, but for the safety of customers and staff, they’ve changed how they handle items. Staff and customers must practice social distancing, and customers must unload their own items. Call Pinellas County Department of Solid Waste at 727-464-7500 or visit pinellascounty.org/solidwaste.

Don’t Be a Scam Victim Scammers are getting more creative during the pandemic, preying on folks of all ages, backgrounds and incomes. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is here to help, protect and educate consumers on fraud at the gas pump, through telemarketing schemes and sham cause. If you have concerns about charities, consumer issues, or are a victim of fraud, visit floridaconsumerhelp.com or call 1-800-help-fla or 1-800-fl-ayuda en Español.

As we head into the drier season, St. Petersburg residents need to observe twice-a-week watering rules for potable, well and surface water irrigation. Know your zones and days, check for updates or download the watering restrictions fact sheet at stpete.org/water, or call 727-892-5300.

Senior Center Pantry Needs Donations Got extra food? If you do, the Gulfport Senior Center Pantry needs it. They’re looking for non-perishables like tuna, peanut butter, dry cereal, pasta sauce, soups and canned meats. Any Gulfport resident 50 and older can use the pantry. The Senior Center keeps the pantry open from 1 to 3 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. If you have food to donate, drop it off anytime. If you could use food, bring your photo ID, a utility bill, or bank statement (to prove residence) and your SSI proof of income. Wondering if you can use the pantry? Call Rachel at 727-893-1231.

Be a Helper with CERT

Now, you can be one, as a member of Gulfport’s Community Emergency Response Team. CERT trains citizens to help the community during a disaster, as well as assist the city for things like traffic control during planned events. CERT meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday of the month. Call James Wright at 727-893-1022.

Need a COVID Test? Community Health Centers of Pinellas and the Florida Department of Health offer COVID-19 testing at locations throughout the county. Visit covid19. pinellascounty.org/testing for sites and hours.

Saving Water Pays Did you know St. Petersburg residents can get a rebate for rain barrels and rain gardens? The City of St. Petersburg developed the Rainwater Rebate Program to help folks conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff. Residents may be eligible for up to $100 for installing water-saving features. Email rainwaterrebates@stpete.org or call 727-893-7341 to learn more.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

On, Dancer! On, Prancer! On, Officer Ross?

JOHN ROSS

By Laura Mulrooney

ARIN GREENWOOD

“Now this is how you celebrate Christmas,” said Mrs. Clause as she stepped off of her watery chariot, the GPD Marine Patrol Boat. “What perfect weather and perfect children this evening. Isn’t that right, Santa?” Santa grunted himself awake: “Yes, dear, you’re right, Ho! Ho! Ho!... More Sleighbell.”

On Saturday, December 12 at 6:30 p.m. Gulfport Police Department’s Marine Officer John Ross led the Boca Ciega Yacht Club’s 35th Annual Christmas Boat Parade. The nearly three-hour parade along the shoreline of Boca Ciega Bay set sail at Gulfport’s Marina District and snaked along Town Shores to the Pasadena Yacht and Country Club and back home. Under Ross’s guidance, none of the vessels ran aground, unlike past years. “Everyone made it back without any issues,” said Ross with a sigh of relief. Not only did Ross emulate Rudolph’s safe and reliable sleighleading abilities, he also escorted Santa and Mrs. Claus in the GPD Marine Patrol Boat. Twenty-four vessels registered for this year’s parade; each paid an entry fee of two or more unwrapped presents or a check made out to Gulfport Police Department’s Operation Santa. BCYC collected 160 toys and raised more than $1100 for the cause, according to BCYC spokesperson Jonathan Cornwell. “The outpouring of gratitude from the community that we found a way to do this event without canceling it due to the pandemic has been huge,” Cornwell said. “We shook

out an extra $800 from our parade budget to buy $25 gift cards from local businesses to help them out.

The cards have been mailed to the captains [that participated in the parade] as a thank-you gift.”

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

Renaissance Dad: Holiday Perfect By Jon Kile

JON KILE

It’s the holiday season and that means social media is about to explode with informative sharing and fun tips for making sure your

holiday is the best, but not too much better than everyone else’s, because some people are less fortunate, but you’re definitely more grateful, but

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not in a judgy way, you just want everyone to have a great Christmas, or whatever holiday they celebrate, even those who don’t celebrate anything. Did I cover all of the bases? Of course not. I didn’t even mention the pandemic! What do you get when you mix holidays and the pandemic? Well, for starters, some people were threatening to decorate for Christmas in the summer, because that would somehow make them feel happy. I don’t know about you, but I really don’t know if I want to dust around Christmas decorations for six months. I’m kidding; we never dust in our house. Having young kids makes the holidays even more fun. Especially now that they’re old enough to be a little materialistic about what Santa brings them. But the pandemic brings in a new wrinkle with Santa. How do they communicate with Santa during COVID-19? Are we going to have a plexiglass visit with Santa like he’s in prison? Our oldest is 11 years old and, well, I’m pretty sure he’s just going along with the Santa thing for the gifts. The other day he declared that he’s asking Santa for a PS5 – a new, expensive game console to replace his other pretty new, expensive game console – because he knows we aren’t going to buy him a PS5. He said this with a look that meant, “Surely you’ll buy me a PS5 to keep the Santa thing alive for my little sister just one more year.” My wife pirouetted around this with ease: “Santa doesn’t bring you a million dollars just because you ask for it.” Our daughter is 7, and her doubts are a little more innocent. She’ll ask, “Dad, do you think Santa is real?” And I’ll say, “Of course. Does he bring you presents every year?” I learned this from a meme on social media. Santa is as real as you want him to be, and believing in Santa results in… gifts from Santa. Thanks, Facebook! Which brings me back to the original topic: social media. Modern manufacturing practices make it possible to erect enormous displays at very little cost. And you can hire a company to come out and make your house look like Clark Griswold’s and you don’t even have to keep a bunch of crap in your attic. But I’m

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

JON KILE

a purist. You can have your giant inflatable polar bear, but I’m gonna stick with lights and dusty wicker statues. I’m not stapling an LED light show around the edges of my home. Our house has impenetrable aluminum siding and is two stories tall. But we do take pride in our holiday decorations, featuring a giant wreath hung high on the second floor. This is a process because I’m too stubborn to ask my neighbor to borrow his ladder. Using a shorter ladder and a long push broom, I extend the wreath to a rusty screw that I planted in the house five years ago. This year, the large red bows that my wife attaches to the wreath kept falling off. After the second bow fell, she admitted, “Yeah, I sort of half-assed putting those on. Sorry.” Our Christmas display is simple and charming. But I’m debating sharing it on social media because of all the grand displays that the strangers I call friends are sharing. They’ll see my picture and think, “Oooh, the Kiles must be struggling during the pandemic.” We’re also going to be hit with lots of “virtue signaling” memes about how sharing our happy holiday memories is detrimental to society. And they’re probably right. Psychologists warn us that social media has merely extended the high school social dynamic indefinitely. The pandemic offers an extraspecial opportunity to shame people who visit family and, alternately, for people who do visit their family to demand to not be shamed. (We got a dress rehearsal for this over Thanksgiving, and I’m sure both sides will hone their messages.) Here’s my take: A great way to not spread a disease that is particularly deadly to the older population is to not go visit the older people that you love. It’s tough, but not as tough as living with the knowledge that you might have a role in their death. Technology makes it possible to see the ones you love all over the globe. And if you do want to visit your family and take that risk, be ready to be judged. Certainly don’t judge the judgers – you’re just as judgy. But seriously, if you’re having a hard time with a low-key holiday, don’t knock it until you try it. A few years back, we experienced the bliss of a quiet Christmas at home. No

offense to either side of our families, but trading holiday travel for a cup of hot coffee, watching the kids open gifts and then relaxing the rest of the day is quite pleasant. Is there anything more stressful than traveling around the holidays, lugging a duffel bag full of gifts during a pandemic? Maybe one of the lessons of 2020 is that any day with family is special – and there’s beauty to be found in a small, quiet holiday without the pressure of making it perfect on Instagram.

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Jon Kile is a stay-at-home dad, writer and amateur homeschool teacher in St. Petersburg. 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. He was diagnosed with a rare condition called Vascular EhlersDanlos Syndrome, in which his fragile arteries are prone to spontaneous rupture. Jon adjusted his lifestyle while finding inner peace and humor. Email jkilewrites@gmail.com or visit dontmakemeturnthisvanaround. com.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

Intrigue Along the Inlet: Commerce and Conflict at Bunce’s Pass A two-part series

HERITAGE VILLAGE

No photographs of Bunce’s early camp exist, but the structures may have resembled the one in this image of an early hut from the Johns Pass area in 1900.

Part 2: A Fishing Camp Under Fire By James A. Schnur

Last week, we learned about Captain William Bunce settling in the largely uninhabited Tampa Bay region during the 1830s. He established a fishing ranchero at the mouth of the Manatee River in 1834 and sent smoked and preserved fish to markets in Havana and elsewhere. Nearly 150 Seminole Indians, runaway slaves, Cubans and others worked at Bunce’s multicultural fishing camp. His ranchero had a larger population than the small village of Tampa. Fort Brooke – a military installation once located at the current site of the Tampa Convention Center – monitored Bunce’s activities. After the second phase of the Seminole War began in 1835, federal authorities wanted Bunce to surrender many of his workers. He failed to comply. An expedition from Fort Brooke destroyed his ranchero. Sometime after that, Bunce set up a new one along Bunce’s Pass. A New Camp Familiar with the mangrove keys near the mouth of Tampa Bay, Bunce decided to establish a new ranchero along the northern side of the pass that bears his name by 1837. Similar to his earlier operation along the Manatee River, his workers built simple structures out of wood and palm thatch. Although no photographs of this camp exist, the structures may have resembled the one in this image of an early hut from the Johns Pass area in 1900. Bunce became the first white settler along the Pinellas Gulf Beaches. Workers at his new ranchero included Cubans, Spaniards, Seminoles and others of mixed or uncertain ethnic ancestry. With the second phase of the Seminole War raging in other parts of Florida, Bunce knew that the mere presence of this camp would concern federal authorities who wanted to remove Indians and

capture runaways and fugitives. Still, his operation at Bunce’s Pass thrived. Bunce frequently visited Tampa. He continued to bring shipments of fish and sea turtles to Fort Brooke to feed the troops stationed there. Throughout this time, Bunce regularly led fishing expeditions for those in the area, including soldiers at Fort Brooke. Hardly anonymous, Bunce even served as a delegate in the convention that drafted the territorial Constitution of 1838 in the years before Florida became a state in 1845. The captain operating a small fish camp along a Pinellas barrier island did more than represent the entire Tampa Bay region in constitutional conversations. He continued to ship large quantities of salted and preserved fish between the months of October and April. His workers also grew self-sustaining crops on the island. This camp flourished during the middle years of the Second Seminole War (1835-1842) while troops in other parts of Florida captured Seminoles and slaves. A Different Coastline, Another Attack The barrier islands of lower Pinellas had a different contour during the 1800s. Bunce’s Pass was wider than today. The area’s salt waters overflowed with fish. The community we now know as Tierra Verde is an agglomeration of various smaller keys joined together by dredging during the 20th century. Pine and Cabbage keys were separate islands in the 1800s. Smaller islands south of Cabbage Key also existed as separate entities. When you approach the last tollbooth along the Bayway before crossing Bunce’s Pass, you drive along portions of Mule Key, Listen Key and Cunningham Key, joined with Cabbage Key in the early 1960s. Bunce’s camp occupied this area. Present-day Fort De Soto Park south of the pass is also a composite of separate islands, some merged together.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

The boat ramps on the south end of Bunce’s Pass are part of Madelaine Key, once known as Hospital Key. The area to the south, near the Fort De Soto entry station, used to be Dogwood Key. The fort constructed in 1898, the park’s main beaches, and fishing piers occupy Mullet Key. Battles during the second phase of the Seminole War intensified by the late 1830s. As troops and militiamen pursued slaves and Seminoles in other parts of Florida, military personnel at Fort Brooke once again pressured Bunce to surrender many of his workers. He staunchly refused. Bunce’s ranchero became a target. No longer would authorities ignore the Seminoles, Cubans and others who labored at the largest – and probably only – commercial enterprise in present-day Pinellas County. Captain S.B. Plummer led a contingent of soldiers from Fort Brooke. They leveled Bunce’s second ranchero and destroyed his crops and farmland 180 years ago, in October 1840. An Almost-Forgotten Pioneer Captain William Bunce gets little attention in historical narratives. Yet, for a few years in the late 1830s, more people may have labored and lived at his camp along Bunce’s Pass than throughout the rest of the Pinellas Peninsula. In “Surf, Sand and Postcard Sunsets,” Frank Hurley Jr. properly credits him as a pioneer who briefly netted prosperity from the rich waters of lower Pinellas more than 45 years before Zephaniah Phillips became the first homesteader on the Gulf Beaches, at Pass-a-Grille, in 1884. Even when Bunce appears in print, authors sometimes

get it wrong. John A. Bethell, a pioneer himself who settled near Little Bayou in the late 1850s, published “Pinellas, A Brief History of the Lower Point” in 1914, at a time when he claimed to be the “oldest living settler” still alive. Bethell did not live here during Bunce’s time, but others often considered him the authority for early St. Petersburg history. Bethell incorrectly claimed that Bunce arrived in 1845, five years after troops had already destroyed his camp. He also wrongly said that the Great Gale of 1848 – the largest hurricane on record to hit the Tampa Bay area – ended Bunce’s ranchero. Bunce’s ranchero was long gone by the time the 15-foot-high storm surge from that September storm flooded all of the barrier islands. Nothing remains of Bunce’s camp today. The next time you return from Fort De Soto County Park, take a moment to admire Bunce’s Pass. More than 180 years ago, the fish swimming in these waters sustained the biggest business on the Pinellas Peninsula, a place where a variety of people worked together as war and hostility raged around them. James A. Schnur previously served as president of the Pinellas County Historical Society and as a member of the Pinellas County Historical Commission. He has authored four photographic history books on the cities of Largo, Madeira Beach and St. Petersburg, as well as a history of Pinellas County. He taught Florida and U.S. history classes at Eckerd College for nearly 20 years. His research on historically Black cemeteries was part of a successful application for Rose Hill Cemetery in Tarpon Springs to gain admission to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

St. Pete NAACP Leaders Discuss Racial Justice in Annual Meeting By Abby Baker

ST. PETERSBURG NAACP

For the first time, amid a year of firsts, the St. Petersburg branch NAACP held their annual meeting via Zoom on Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m. Among 2020 budget records and NAACP member growth reports, St. Petersburg branch leaders, including current President Harry Harvey and president-elect Esther Eugene, stressed the educational gap between Black students and their non-Black peers; housing needs following the COVID-19 crisis and fair treatment of Black and brown people by the St. Petersburg Police Department. “Our members are the lifeblood of our organization,” Harvey said to the 36 participants in Saturday’s meeting. “There’s nothing our people cannot do in the face of upholding public justice.” The Shooting of Dominique Harris, Police Use of Body Cameras First Vice President Trenia Cox presented the St. Petersburg NAACP’s Criminal Justice Committee’s annual report with the shadows of the recent fatal shooting of 20-year-old Dominique Harris by St. Petersburg police officers on Wednesday, December 2. “Is the St. Petersburg Police Department following the best

practices?” Cox said before mentioning the eight key policies generated in 2014 by President Obama’s Task Force on Police Reform. Harris was a “person of interest” in an open 2019 homicide case, according to Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. Harris was armed and attempted to flee police before he shot an officer and was then hit and killed with 38 bullets. “The concern with the Harris case is the extensive use of force,” Cox said. Led by Cox, leaders went on to discuss accountability in the local police department, an issue that was supported on Thursday, December 10 with the release of a new body camera program that is set to outfit 575 SPPD officers with recording devices. St. Petersburg NAACP members said they will continue to meet with St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway and monitor the city’s use of force. The Reality for Black Students Delphine Brown, head of the Education Committee, had a significant amount to address after the shut down and virtual revamp of schools during the month of March following the global pandemic.

“Currently 67% of Black students are attending face-to-face,” Brown confirmed in her report. According to Brown, there are concerns about whether students who do not attend in-person classes can access proper devices; parents not being able to assist in digital learning; a lack of internet service and food deficiency. “Every child needs to receive a free, high-quality, equitably funded, public pre-K and K-12 education,” Brown said in her report. Currently, “74 percent of children in our community are not reading proficiently.” While there is no quick fix for these issues, the NAACP plans to continue working with the Bridging the Gap Plan and to participate in the curriculum review each year. Leaders agreed that there should be a focus on getting students in school and learning, while practicing social distancing. Seniors Hold on for Homes In 2018, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority moved residents, including 20 senior citizens, out of the historic village at Jordan Park. The goal is to build a 60-unit high-

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

rise on land where the senior village was, a building that has not been completed due to funding issues and financing plan delays. According to president-elect Eugene, of the 20 displaced seniors, there are 10 who would like to return, and those who choose to return will get the first right to accept or refuse a unit. When that will happen, exactly, remains unclear. In the meantime, St. Petersburg Housing Authority chief executive officer, Michael Lundy, has agreed to participate in monthly Executive Committee meetings to provide updates on the project, these will be either in person or through written reports. Leaders ended the meeting with a call for increased membership and advocacy. “If you have 1000 members here in the community, there will not be an elected official who can disregard us,” Eugene said as the meeting concluded.

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Course 1 LOOKING FOR THIS WEEK’S GULFPORT CITY COUNCIL MEETING?

Isabelle’s Famous Lobster Bisque Wild Mushroom & Brie Soup Short Rib Egg Rolls ~ with a sweet & tangy barbeque dipping sauce Vintage Vegan Dumplings ~ with a spicy mustard & a sweet soy ginger dipping sauce Shrimp Cocktail Marishnakov ~ with a vodka spiked chili lime sauce

Course 2 Roasted Brussel Sprouts Caesar Salad Holiday Strawberry Salad (vegan)

Course 3

12 oz Prime Rib ........................................................................................... 60 with Au Jus and Horseradish Sauce, Garlic Roasted Mashed Potatoes

Pork Tenderloin ........................................................................................... 50 with Bourbon Cranberry-Apple Compote, Au Gratin Potatoes

Grilled Diver Scallops ................................................................................ 65 served with Lemon Caviar Angel Hair Pasta

Duck a l’orange ........................................................................................... 55 with a citrus Grand Marnier Sauce, Lemon Risotto

Baked Stuffed Acorn Squash .................................................................... 45 with Lemon Risotto All entrees come with choice of one vegetable: Asparagus, Green Beans or Brussel Sprouts

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Apricot & White Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding with White Chocolate Cream

Mamma W’s Famous Lane Cake with vanilla ice cream

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theGabber.com!

Whoopie Pie Parfaits with Peppermint Crumbles Southern Bourbon Praline Cheesecake

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

2020 Got You Down? Here’s Where to Go For Help By Laura Mulrooney

STOCKSNAP

“Let’s bear in mind there are a lot of people for whom the holidays are not a joyous time,” said Mayor Sam Henderson in a December 9 public service announcement. The holidays can be hard for many, and this year has been especially cruel. During the Tuesday, December 1 Gulfport City Council meeting, Councilmember Christine Brown asked City Manager Jim O’Reilly if the city could regularly post available mental health and drug addiction services on the city’s website and social media. In response, the city released a PSA from Mayor Henderson concerning mental health during the holidays. “As someone who suffers from anxiety and depression, I’ve been diagnosed and medicated for it for years now,” Henderson said. “These things can be overpowering feelings when you start to feel really bad, when

you start to get down in those cycles where depression starts to take over for you. “It may not be you that suffers from it. There may be others – someone you know, someone you see on a regular basis,’’ Henderson said. “Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone if you feel like they might be in need. People who need these resources may be unwilling or maybe just be unaware of these resources.” 211 Services 211 is a free service that connects residents to information refers them to local services like suicide prevention, emotional support, sexual harassment/assault resources, family services and more. 211 is available 24 hours a day from any phone. Call 211, text 898211, or

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download the free 211 Connects app. 211tampabay.org for more. Pinellas County Human Services Pinellas County’s Human Services Department has a network of more than 105 partner agencies and manages 190 plus contracts and grants for access to medical care, emergency financial assistance, connecting people to judicial resources, benefits for veterans and dependents, investigating consumer complaints, and help for the homeless. pinellascounty.org/humanservices National Alliance on Mental Illness The National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine is a free, nationwide peersupport service providing information, referrals and support to people living with mental health issues, their family, caregivers and mental health providers. The NAMI HelpLine is available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1-800950-NAMI (6264) or anytime at info@ nami.org. More at nami.org/help. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

727-344-4500 6524 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free and confidential support for people in distress, and prevention and crisis resources for loved ones 24 hours a day, every day. Call 800-273-TALK (8255). More at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

dear gabby: traveling, bullies and pets The Gabber’s semi-regular advice column, Dear Gabby, is here by reader demand. Have a question or a conundrum for Gabby? There’s no problem too small for your resident advisor. Send your questions – they can be anonymous – to deargabby@ thegabber.com. My family lives in Michigan, I haven’t seen them since last Christmas and I miss them very much. My parents are getting older (in their 80s) and I don’t know how much more time we all have together. I would like to fly there for the holidays, and I’ve heard that flying is pretty safe. I know you’re not a health expert, but do you think it’s OK for me to go? Should I drive instead, or wait for COVID to be over? This is a really tough one. I can understand your concern that you may not have much longer with your parents, but of more pressing concern is that their advanced age makes them more susceptible to COVID-19 infection and viral complications. Without a clear, national plan for how to best practice COVID-19 safety, it’s difficult to assess how safe any one flight, airport or visit may be. If you absolutely must go, I recommend you get tested for COVID-19 before your visit. After testing negative, I’d encourage you to travel the safest way you can – check online for the airline’s and your local airport’s safety precautions or opt to drive – then visit your parents, staying safer outdoors as much as possible for the length of your stay.

my experience, it does nothing more than fan the flames. If someone posts something that bothers or threatens you, report the comment with available online tools and block that person from seeing your online activity. You may also want to reach out the group’s moderator or administrator to let them know that there’s a troll in the group/ on the page. I have a lot of anxiety about my dog dying. I even had a nightmare about it recently. He isn’t sick, but I know he’s not going to live forever. Sometimes the thought hits me and I just start to cry. Help! I share this anxiety sometimes. I love my dog, who I’ve had since he was just a month old. He’s 10 now and having health problems. I cannot, nor do I want to, imagine my life without him. I love him so much! Even after he farts

A Milwaukee native, Sheree L. Greer is a local textbased artist, educator and taco lover. In 2014, she founded Kitchen Table Literary Arts to showcase and support the work of Black women and women of color writers and is the author of two novels, “Let the Lover Be” and “A Return to Arms.”

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I feel bullied by someone, but I don’t work with them or see them socially. I’m not even sure that it’s bullying, but I don’t know what else to call it. Here’s what happens: Whenever I post something on a public group or page on social media (I keep my own stuff locked down) they’ll reply with something ugly. How do I call this person out? I’m frustrated no one else has said something. When you publish something publicly, you’re creating an opportunity for anyone and everyone to share their thoughts and opinions. That’s just the nature of online sharing. But some folks go too far, belittling and sometimes even threatening. You could engage the person yourself, but from

and the stench threatens to kill all my plants. I wish our beloved pets could live forever, but they can’t and they won’t. Consider that anxiety is about spending mental and emotional energy worrying about something that isn’t happening, may not happen, or in this case, won’t happen for a while. Can you think of something more productive to spend that energy on? Like, a doggy photoshoot at the dog park or knitting matching sweaters for you and your pup? Instead of worrying about your dog dying, try putting all your efforts into making sure your dog knows he’s loved and cared for; try centering all your emotional energy on sharing the moments you have together in the now. Remember that you can make sure your dog lives an amazing life full of love, laughter and adventure and that’s more than we can do for the people in our lives. I think that’s pretty special.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

Recreation Center 5730 Shore Blvd S. • 727-893-1068 • mygulfport.us/recreation/rec Annual registration: $3, residents; $25, non-residents Basketball (Adult) Wed., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and Thurs. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Game Room Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Pickleball All levels: Tues., 7:30-8:30 p.m. and Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m Beginners: Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Intermediate & Advanced Players: Mon., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Table Tennis Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

PROGRAMS After School Program Available for kindergarten students through 14 years old. Bus transportation from Pasadena Fundamental, Bear Creek, Gulfport Montessori and Douglas Jamerson Elementary. Program ends at 5:30 p.m., with care until 6 p.m. for an extra fee.

Teen Night 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.

month & $15 registration. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594.

Tot-Time A preschool, hands-on program for children ages 3-5. The program aims to make learning fun for children and helps prepare them for kindergarten. Two, three and fiveday options available on a monthly basis. 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; register from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Proof of residency required for Gulfport residents.

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

CLASSES Ballet and Tap Ages 3-6: Wed., 6:30 p.m.; ages 7-16: Wed., 7:30 p.m. $35/

Essential Oil Dec. 17, 6:15 p.m. $10 Jennifer: 813-263-3919. Full-Body Fitness Tues. & Thurs., 6:15 p.m. $50/month; $10/class. Jessica: 727569-6307.

Tennis Chase Park, 28th Ave. and 53rd St. S. Tues., Thurs., & Fri., 5-8 p.m. $10. Private lessons available. Jack (727-280-4276) or Mo (727-515-1454). Youth Hip Hop Ages 6-8: Fri., 6:30 p.m.; ages 9-16, Fri., 7:30 p.m. $35/month & $15 registration. Lisa Walker: 727-742-2594. Zumba Thurs., 6 p.m. $20/month; $6/ class. Magda: 727-214-7868.

Gulfport Public Library

5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 •

/gulfportfllibrary

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.

Babytime Online If you have little ones under 2, please join us in singing songs, reading books, enjoying lap bounce rhymes and learning baby signs. Dec. 18, 10 a.m. via Facebook.

Virtual Science Club Join us biweekly online for a fun DIY experiment from the comfort of your own kitchen using common household items. Appropriate for grades K-5. Jan. 11, 4 p.m.

Virtual Storytime Join us virtually for our storytime. Follow @GulfportLibraryFL for books and rhymes and felts and more! Storytime videos posted weekly on Facebook. Dec. 17, 10:15 a.m.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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.

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

Intermediate Spanish Practice and improve your Spanish. Thurs., 10 a.m.

CALL US TO GET THE ZOOM LINK FOR THESE ACTIVITIES.

Writer’s Workshop Sharpen your pen, sharpen your mind! Whether this is your first attempt at writing or you’re an accomplished author, together our group encourages, supports, and advances each other’s writing. Fri., 10 a.m.

Virtual Bingo It’s fun and easy, and you can play it on your smart phone, computer, tablet, or traditional phone. Use a virtual bingo card or pick up a paper card at the Center, get a pen or bingo dauber, and you’re ready to play! Dec. 18, 1 p.m.

FIND THESE ACTIVITIES ON SPECTRUM GTV CHANNEL 640 OR AT YOUTUBE.COM/ THEGULFPORTSENIORCENTER

Money Mondays: Benefits of Charitable Giving ‘Tis the season to give. This month, learn about charitable giving and how it can save you money on your taxes. Dec. 28, 10 a.m. Gentle Mindful Yoga This class includes yoga for healthy aging with an emphasis on alignment, strength, balance, flexibility, breathing and agility. Wed., 9 a.m.

Cooking for One Can Be Fun: Holiday Desserts Local foodie Larry Lucas welcomes you into his kitchen and inspires you with delicious, easy meals you can make. Dec. 22, 2 p.m. Call or email gpseniorcenter@mygulfport.us for the ingredient list. In The Kitchen with Chef Jack Improve your culinary skills with step-by-step guidance from the Soup Guru! Holiday Soup: Dec. 29, 1 p.m.; Artichoke

Florentine Soup, Jan. 5, 1 p.m. Call or email gpseniorcenter@mygulfport.us for the ingredient list. Chair Exercise with Pat Focus on stretching muscle groups and moving skeletal joints without pain in this gentle exercise routine that uses several exercise methods, incluing yoga, isometrics, neuro-plasticity, and Tai Chi. Mon., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Yoga with Barbara Newborn We are true healers of our body, mind and spirit. Learn meditation, sound healing and how to breathe with slow body movements. Tues., 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wellness Movement with Noa Spector-Flock Explore movement to better use the whole body to create efficient movement. Wed., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wisdom Healing Qigong By the many methods of Wisdom Healing Qigong, you’ll be inspired and empowered to transform any illness or condition into wellness. Thurs., 10 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Get the city app by visiting

MyGulfport.us/cityapp

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

PCSO to Residents: Do As I Say, Not As I Do By Cathy Salustri

CATHY SALUSTRI

When Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri spoke at the December 3 press conference that “being able to go into a restaurant and stand around and have a conversation the way we used to do it is fun [but] now we need to do it differently,” at least one deputy must not have gotten the memo. As the Gabber owners – this writer is one – delivered the Gabber Newspaper along St. Pete Beach early December 10, they saw a deputy inside Vito and Michael’s. The deputy stood at the front counter, not wearing a face covering, for at least five minutes. In that time, he spoke to another man (also standing at the counter, with no face covering) and held the door as two people with no face covering left the restaurant. The woman working behind the counter wore a mask, as did the healthcare worker who walked past the unmasked deputy to get a carry out order. The Gabber emailed photos of the unmasked deputy to the Sheriff’s Office and asked them how this incident occurred, how it supports Gualtieri’s December 3 message, and whether the deputy would be disciplined. Their one-sentence response gave no indication that Gualtieri intended to discipline him. “Like everyone, deputies need to make the best effort possible to follow the local ordinance and all our

personnel are reminded to do so,” Deputy Jessica Mackesy, with the Sheriff’s public information office, wrote in an email. Al Johnson, St. Pete Beach Mayor, responded more strongly to the photos. “That’s totally the wrong message,” Johnson said. “We require masks inside, period, end of subject.” St. Pete Beach dissolved its police department in 2012 and now contracts with PCSO for services. Johnson told the Gabber he would pursue the matter with the city manager and Sheriff Gualtieri. South Pinellas cities all handle the mask ordinance differently. Both the cities of Gulfport and St. Petersburg stressed to the Gabber that they expect their officers to follow the county’s mask mandate, although how they treat unmasked individuals differs. In a June 24 memo to all sworn officers, Gulfport Chief of Police Rob Vincent reminded officers that mask ordinance violations carry a $100 fine, with subsequent violations escalating first to $250, then $500. Also in that memo – which he reiterated in a phone call with the Gabber – Vincent outlined the preferred course of action: ask businesses to create a mask policy and, if a patron refuses to comply, call the police to trespass the unmasked customer. The county mask ordinance, as

written, Vincent told the Gabber, has too many loopholes for effective enforcement. He used the example of people seated at a table, saying the burden of proof that groups are or are not in the same family lies with the police, not private citizens. Vincent also told the Gabber that, on a December 3 5 p.m. conference call, every law enforcement agency in Pinellas agreed it would not issue tickets for mask violations. Read this story online to access the email Sheriff Gualtieri sent to Pinellas police chiefs. Governor DeSantis’s mandate that individuals not get tickets motivated the decision, at least in part. “Following discussion of several factors, including the many loopholes in the ordinance language, as well as the governor’s executive order, we agreed that it would be inappropriate for law enforcement to issue citations for violation of the county ordinance,” Vincent said of the conference call. Despite that call, St. Petersburg has cited more than 200 businesses for mask violations – although many of those citations come via the codes department, according to Ben Kirby, the city’s communications director. “We have a mayor’s order as well as a county order,” Yolanda Fernandez, the St. Petersburg Police Department’s public information officer, said. “We will issue a citation if we see a violation. However, we haven’t in a while because code enforcement has taken the lead on this. They are proactively checking businesses.” Although SPPD will cite businesses, Fernandez explained, they allow complaints to drive police enforcement. “When someone calls [and complains] we send someone out,” she said. “We have to see it.” While the city’s codes compliance assistance and the fire departments issue the bulk of citations, Fernandez said all three departments will ticket businesses. PCSO, however, remains steadfast in their resistance to issuing citations. Gualtieri has said he would not enforce the county’s mask ordinance, saying he wouldn’t “play mask police.” Although the Pinellas County Commission passed the mask ordinance, Gualtieri doesn’t answer to them. In cities like Gulfport and St. Petersburg, management hires and fires the police chief with guidance from the elected council and mayor, however voters elect the sheriff.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

business Business Beat: Chocolate, Seafood and Sundries By Laura Mulrooney

Cuckoo for CocoAddiction Chefs Olivier Rodriguez and Gregory Pugin are bringing their love for fresh ingredients and chocolate confectionery to Corey Avenue on St. Pete Beach. CocoAddiction started as a pet project between these two Frenchborn chefs who share a passion for good food, and 50 combined years of experience in the kitchen and fine dining. Eventually, with the support of their followers and family they decided to open a storefront at 344 Corey Ave. “From our experience we will always choose quality over quantity,” said Rodriguez. “We’re even planting trees at our houses – mango, limes, finger limes and bananas. We want to use these fresh fruits in our chocolate.” CocoAddiction promises to get as many ingredients as they can locally. As part of that promise, they’ve partnered with local brand, MADE Coffee, to pair with crafted chocolates and pastries. The duo will make crafted chocolates 90% of the shop’s focus. Patrons can watch Pastry Chef Rodriguez working his craft through a glass petition. Renovations began Monday December 14, with an expected opening at the end of January 2021. Stella’s Sundries Makes Her Grand Entrance It all started with t-shirts and coffee mugs. “They loved the nun and the Stella habit,” says Barbara Banno, owner and operator of Stella’s restaurant and the new Stella’s Sundries gift shop, of her businesses’ popular logo. After her Stella’s restaurant shirts and mugs became a hit, Banno wanted to see what other types of funky, wacky kitchen stuff she could offer – something Gulfport didn’t have just yet. “I call it the store where you’ll find something for that person that has everything,” Banno said. “I’m so thrilled to be able to expand Stella’s brand into this wonderful gift shop and to have it be part of the Gulfport community.” Bring your receipt from dining at Stella’s restaurant and get a 10% discount at Stella’s Sundries. Stella’s Sundries is next to Stella’s in

Stella’s Sundries

the Village Courtyard at 2908-A, Beach Blvd. S. Visit fb.com/TheStellaLife for more. Cori’s Seafood Grill Owner and operator of Key West Seafood Co., Dave Register, recently opened a restaurant in honor of his daughter, Cori, who passed away in 2020 at age 25 from childhood cancer. Cori’s Seafood Grill, at 1431 49th St. S., helps to honor Cori’s legacy, Fighting All Monsters, a charity that assists children with childhood cancer. “FAM was a passion of Cori’s,” said Register. “It gave her purpose to help those fighting cancer, when she was fighting her own.” Cori’s Seafood Grill serves fresh,

never frozen, local seafood sourced from just next door at Keywest Seafood Co., 1449 49th St, S. Just this week, Dave’s son caught 900 lbs of local grouper, which they will serve at both establishments. Cori’s doesn’t just serve seafood – they also serve burgers, wings and Philly cheesesteaks. On the menu at Cori’s Seafood Grill, a few items marked “Cori’s Favorite’s” will automatically have $1 donated to FAM in honor of Cori. The restaurant also has a “top up” option when patrons cash out. If interested, patrons can round up their bill and donate a few cents to FAM. Cori’s Seafood Grill is open seven days a week. More at fb.com/ CorisSeafoodGrill.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

things to do

Opera, Books & Holiday Crafts Find links for signing up for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events. Thursday, December 17 Network with the Best of Them Leave the flip flops and sun hats behind at Caddy’s on the Beach this Thursday, and join the Treasure Island and Madeira Beach Chamber of Commerce for the annual Holiday After Hours Networking Mixer. This is your opportunity to meet fellow chamber and community members while enjoying waterside drinks and appetizers. Caddy’s on the Beach, 9000 W. Gulf Blvd.,Treasure Island. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MR

ST. PETERSBURG OPERA COMPANY

By Abby Baker

Friday December 18 & Sunday December 20 Public Opera at Cage Brewing Whether you’re an opera fan or not, the POPera Holiday Sparkle event, hosted by the St. Petersburg Opera Company, is a seasonal option for those who love holiday music. Enjoying happy hour at Cage Brewing and live music by performers from the St. Petersburg area while remaining socially distant. Craft Brewing, 2001 1st Ave. S, St. Petersburg. 4 p.m. MR SD Saturday, December 19 Homemade Holiday Craft Show Join artists and holiday shoppers at the first annual Lopez Holiday Craft Show for a chance to shop through a diverse collection of homemade items and handcrafted gifts. Attendance is free; vendors can join for $10 per booth. Join the raﬄe and get a chance to win artisanal knick-knacks, cookie cutters, ornaments and much more. Lopez Hall, 7177 58th St. N., Pinellas Park. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. MR SD

Bring Your Books for a Library Donation Drive Looking to free your shelves of last year’s cookbooks and quarantine reads? The Circle of Friends of the Gulfport Public Library is sponsoring a socially, physically distanced, drive-through book drop this Saturday. Aside from textbooks and encyclopedias, all gently used books – within a two carton limit – will be accepted for either resale in the book shop, or as much-needed equipment for the library. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. MR

Friendly Feline Faces What’s better than a furry new friend? Adopting instead of shopping for that addition to the family. Save Our Strays, a no-kill cat rescue organization, is looking to find forever homes for rescue kittens. Raised in foster care, all kitties are vetted, microchipped and ready to be loved. Check Pet of the Week for a kitten that will be on hand. Pet Supermarket, 6892 Gulfport Blvd., #1000, South Pasadena. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. MR

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

crime Driver Takes Another Swipe at Trolley Market Square

LAURA MULROONEY

By Laura Mulrooney

LAURA MULROONEY

On Sunday, December 13, and for the second time since opening last year, Trolley Market Square was victim to a game of bumper cars, Gulfport Public Works Director Tom Nicholls confirmed. “This is the second crash since Trolley Market Square opened in February 2019,” said Nicholls. “In both incidents the retaining wall has prevented the vehicles from actually entering the park.” After the first crash, Nicholls said, Gulfport staff and the City of St. Petersburg, which borders Gulfport on the east side of 49th Street, worked to enhance signs and markings, “as you head westbound to the stop sign at 49th Street South and 18th Avenue South,” he explained.

Details of exactly what happened in Sunday’s crash were unavailable at press time, but a police report is pending. Once Nicholls reviews the

report from this incident, he said he will talk with authorities in St. Petersburg to see if the cities need to take additional precautions.

SALE ENDS 12/24/2020

727-344-2524

6801 Gulfport Blvd #12 • South Pasadena • Located across the street from Pasadena Shopping Center, next to Winn Dixie

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

arts

Dawn Waters continued from cover

DAWN WATERS

Waters paints with fiber and much of her work incorporates three-dimensional felted flowers or other dimensional element. Her portraits can deliver powerful and poignant messages, such as her depiction of the Afghan girl who appeared on the cover of National Geographic in 1985. Her work also evokes her humor, pop culture and occasionally her political slant. “Think Martha Stewart and Snoop hanging out, making unexpected things happen,” she says. Waters says she began creating art relatively late in life after a career in advertising and working as communications director at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts. She was introduced to felting on a trip to Amsterdam. A friend taught her the basics and she focused on creating wearables. Waters says she had never seen a portrait made of fiber and wondered if she could create one, even though she had no art training and had never attempted a portrait. Her Chihuahua was her first subject. She continued to work on portraits, finally creating human likenesses with fiber and a felting needle. “It’s like tattooing,” she says, “but with wool.” Waters now lives in Gulfport and creates her art in her home studio. She says she often chooses subjects with a sentimental attachment, or a face that she cannot resist replicating. She creates with wool and other fibers, such as silk, hemp and alpaca, using either a wet or dry felting process. “Wet-felting is when you agitate the fibers with warm soapy water until they meld together – a time-intensive, strenuous process. This is how the flowers are made and it’s the process I use to make scarves and wearables,” she says. “The dry felting method, otherwise known as needle

DAWN WATERS

felting, is when you do a lot of poking with a felting needle, which is a special barbed needle.” Her intricate portrait of Frida Kahlo is a mix of the two processes. Frida’s floral crown and shawl were wet felted; her face was needle felted. “I use only dyed fiber to create the faces, and poke many thousands of times,” she says. “There is no paint applied and nothing is glued. The finished product is felted wool.” Waters says the amount of time it takes to make a felted painting varies greatly. “I’ve made animal portraits in as few as three hours,” she says, “and some portraits have taken several weeks.” Waters recently began working with paint and mixed media. “I’ve noticed how working with each medium has informed the other,” she says. “The possibilities are endless.” Waters has received numerous awards for her work since she began in 2017, including a first place award in Fearless Fiber at the Carrollwood Cultural Center in Tampa. She’s received awards of distinction at the New River Art Juried Biennial in Blacksburg, Virginia; Fiber Art Now magazine and Contemporary Fiber in Florida at Florida CraftArt in St. Petersburg. Her work has been featured in Outsider Art Magazine and on the Summer 2019 cover of Fiber Art Now. Her work has been exhibited at galleries, museums and shows in New Orleans, New Jersey and Atlanta. Locally, her portraits have been shown at Mize Gallery and Florida CraftArt in St. Petersburg; Art Center Sarasota and Brenda McMahon Gallery in Gulfport. More at dawnwaters.art or find her on Facebook and Instagram. Find videos of Water’s creation process on YouTube at Dawn Waters Art.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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(727) 545-4554 theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

A Song of Hope and Healing Thirteen years ago singer/songwriter Tanya LaReese was going through a difficult time with turmoil in the community and in her personal life. She witnessed the devastation of addiction with someone she knew. Her husband was a victim of gun violence. But from a childhood rooted in gospel music, she understood its power to inspire and was moved to write the song “God Give Us Peace,” a plea for faith, unity and healing. She recorded the song and included it on her 2007 album “Ready or Not.” After the challenges and heartbreak of 2020, LaReese decided to revisit “God Give Us Peace.” She says that with COVID-19, unemployment, social injustice and everything else that has transpired this year, she wanted to encourage people to come together and have faith that things could improve. She went back into the studio to “breathe new life into the song with fresh vocals” along with a music video, filmed on the grounds of the Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in St. Petersburg. Instead of hiring actors, LaReese enlisted friends and community members to appear. The video depicts problems facing communities today, including homelessness, gun violence and drug abuse, as LaReese’s powerful voice soars over soulful, hopeful lyrics. Florida State Senator Darryl Rouson has a role in the video as a counselor to Nicole Watkins, who portrays a prostitute. Tanya LaReese’s sister, Gwendolyn Conage, who has been battling cancer, gets a hug from the singer at the end of the video. LaReese is a veteran singer, songwriter and recording artist, who has shared the stage with artists such as The Clark Sisters and Tank and performed in Clay Aiken’s Christmas Concert Tour at Ruth Eckerd Hall. She is wellversed in a variety of musical genres including Christian rock, R&B, Motown, jazz, classical, reggae, soul and funk. She says her dream is to one day turn “God Give Us Peace” into a series or movie starring some of the original video participants. “I would like people to hear the positive message that

TANYA LAREESE

By Lynn Taylor

Tanya LaReese with director Clint Mourino.

the song sends about all of us coming together and trusting in God,” LaReese said. “No matter what your background may be, you have a chance to overcome the tragedies that can occur in life.” View the video at youtu.be/PJ2gMewf5JM. The song is also on iTunes and Amazon Music.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

obituaries

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his best life. His favorite activities included eating, being fed and also snacks. He is survived by his human, Susie; furry frenemies Bodie, Pepper, Peaches, Paco, Lucky and Sammy; and co-rescuer Lacey Glass. He was preceded in death by his hero, Megan Barrett. Donations can be made in his memory to Limbo Chihuahuas at limbochihuahuas.org.

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We are the place where sense & scents converge. Your 1 stop shop for all of your sophisticated fragrances and holiday gift ideas. Plant-based handcrafted soaps made by a local Gulfport Artisan. theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

worship St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church Join Us For

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Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation

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Paradise Lutheran Church on Treasure Island 10255 Paradise Blvd Treasure Island (Regular Sunday Service 10:00am Drive-In Service)

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

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Take control of your end of life decisions Here in our firm we offer much more than Personal Injury Represenation. We have some of the most competitive rates in Pinellas County for Wills, Living Wills, Health Surrogates.

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

pets Pet Pal Animal Shelter

Friends of Strays

ZAIYA HIGH VIBES

“A diamond is a lump of coal made good under pressure.” Aloha to this 3-month-old hunk of cuteness. Aloha means living in harmony with the people and land around you with grace and kindness. That sums up all of the love that this little orange tabby of the same name has in store for you!

Marcy, Marcy, Marcy! This friendly, affectionate lady loves to snuggle. She plays in her water dish and is obsessed with squeaky toys. Give her a tennis ball and she’ll carry it all day. Marcy’s adoption fee has been waived. All she needs is a family. Friends of Strays is at 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Friendsofstrays. org/adopt; 727-522-6566.

Save Our Strays

2020 has been a year of loss, hardship, and stress. Many have lost beloved family & friends, pets, jobs, businesses, and homes. I take comfort from the Talmud which says there is nothing more whole than a broken heart. I pray that in the same way a precious diamond is formed under tremendous pressure, that your life will be transformed from brokenness to wholeness.

May we all shine brightly in 2021.

Unique Art & Gifts from 30 Local Artists in the Gallery! Linen, Silk, Tie Dye, & Boho Styles in the Boutique!

Don’t drown in those gorgeous brown eyes! Paisley is a master of the pitiful puppy-dog look. She is also incredibly sweet, and would love to come home for the holidays. Paisley is a 4-yearold, 66-pound hound mix. Meet Aloha and Paisley at Pet Pal Animal Shelter, 405 22nd St. S. 727328-7738; visit petpalanimalshelter. com.

Jingle and Nicklaus play nonstop. The 2-month old kittens are funny, mischievous and super friendly lap cats who love to cuddle. All SOS felines are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. 727-545-1116; saveourstraysinc.com

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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LAURA MULROONEY

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LAURA MULROONEY

Yolanda Hernandez, Tampa: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change anything; 2020 hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been that harsh on me, nothing has changed. I would like for people to be more careful and less stupid.â&#x20AC;?

Carlos Valentine, Parrish: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve actually done less. Because I do travel, and because of the pandemic, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve traveled less. Actually, I have not traveled this year.â&#x20AC;?

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theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

crossword

Solution on page 35

Animals

sudoku

Solution on page 31

gabber on staycation Emmie Deininger created the most 2020 of all Christmas ornaments – a mask angel – and reminded us all that there’s more than one way to take your Gabber.

Have you taken the Gabber somewhere? Or maybe stayed at home? We want to see your pictures! Please send a highresolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber. com.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS

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

PLEASE NOTE: The deadline for the December 31st issue is Tuesday, December 22nd by 5 p.m. 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

Card of Thanks O HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. 4 E.A. POWERFUL PRAYER TO Holy Spirit, you who solves all problems, who lights all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me, I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you, in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine. The person must say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After 3 days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted, without mentioning the favor, only your initials should appear at the bottom. TTD-AD THANK YOU To the person who found my wallet and left it on my doorstep, you are what makes Gulfport (and the world) a better place. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never Known to Fail) - Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, star of the sea, help me & show me here you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3) times. Holy Spirit, you Who Solve All Problems, Light All Roads, So That I Can Attain My Goal. You Who Gave Me The Divine Gift To Forgive And Forget All Evil Against Me

And That In All Instances In My Life You Are With Me. I Want In This Short Prayer To Thank You For All Things As You Confirm Once Again That I Never Want To Be Seperated From You In Eternal Glory. Thank You For Your Mercy Towards Me and Mine. L.M.G.

ARTISTIC PAINTER And regular painting and house cleaning as well. Please call Sandra at 727-709-0513

Caregivers

Here we are in one of the most beautiful cities in the US, yet littering is out of control. It’s time for a talk with your family and yourself about why litter is so wrong. Better Yourself. Don’t Litter!

LITTERING IS OUT OF CONTROL!!

Handy Person Non-Medical Home Care • Private Duty Personal Care • Companionship Homemaker Services • No Contracts No Minimum Hour Requirement Licensed, Bonded, Insured Nurse Owned & Operated Free In-Home Consultation / RN Assessment

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Cleaning / Housekeeping

HORRIBLE HOLIDAY HOUSEKEEPER

Show up Late, Charge too Much, Terrible Job. Call Sharon. We know you don’t want to do it, so we’ll do it for you. 727-557-4247. Electrical

AC ELECTRIC 727-345-3108

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

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

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SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT! General

HANDYMAN SEMI-RETIRED All types of repairs • small jobs welcome • Quality work at reasonable prices • Honest • Reliable • Free estimates • John, 727-4102201 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. SEMI RETIRED CARPENTER At Discount Prices! Free Estimates. Frame and Finish Work. Gulfport and Pinellas Park Areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus, 727-6446194. Painting

EXTERIOR PAINTING BY MASTERGUARD PAINTING

30 Years Painting in Pinellas County. Sherwin Williams Products used with a lifetime guarantee. Licensed and insured. Discounts for Seniors, Veterans and First Responders. MASTERGUARD PAINTING LLC. Call Steve at 727-424-4303 Legal Notices NOTICE OF INTENT TO FILE A DBA This is a legal notice of intent to file a fictitious name for my company Beauty Secrets by Pam. The DBA will be Beauty Secret Esthetics. GULFPORT MARINA, LLC FILING DBA MARINEMAX This is Proof of fictitious name filing of Gulfport Marina, LLC dba MarineMax Help Wanted

CDL-A DRIVERS: It’s LOCAL SUGAR CANE Season! $1500 Sign-On Bonus! Make Big $$$ + Bonuses & Get Home Nightly. $1000 Referral Bonus. Great Health Benefits. 6 mos. Exp. in last 3 yrs. Req. Call Oakley Today! 855-942-2798 Moving / Hauling

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

CHARLES JUNK HAULING & DEMOLITION Junk & Trash Removal. Low, Low Prices Guaranteed, Daily Specials. Kitchen, Bath, Shed, Fencing, etc. Demolition. 727-8310507.

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

Computer Services

Computer Problems? No Problem!

EXPERT SPRINKLER REPAIR

Rich Moseley, Irrigation Contractor. 25 Years Experience. Reasonable Rates. Well & Pumps. 727-439-0792. Lic.#C8312. BBB Accredited.

In-Home Service FREE Phone Consultation Virus/Malware Removal Setup • Repair • Tutoring Courteous, Competent, Reliable Service

perfectworldllc.com

COMPUTER SERVICES 727-343-2838

In-home services: Internet security, training, virus & spyware removal, maintenance & repair, data recovery. PC & Mac.

Gulfport Computer Repair Fast Friendly Service

727-388-3493

AFFORDABLE PROMPT • RELIABLE Licensed & Insured

Lee Claxton, I.S.A.

15 Years in Gulfport 45 Years Experience

Home & Condo Maintenance

D.C. STRONG

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

Certified Arborist

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

727-220-0226 AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

GULFPORT HURRICANE CLEANUP, LANDSCAPING, TRIMMING, FREE QUOTES Fast efficient lawn care with over 20 years experience. Free quote, yard cleanups, mowing, trimming, edging, tree pruning, property management. Local and available right now. Text 808494-4971. Heating / Air Conditioning

(727) 381-ROOF (7663)

4576 10 Ave N., St Petersburg 33713

Family Owned Since 1964 St. Lic. #RC0066692 Insured

Irrigation Stain Removal We remove ugly rust-colored stains from PVC Fencing, house siding, signs, mailboxes, painted wood & concrete/ stucco, cars.

2321 49th St S

Mon-Thu 10am-5pm

Kathy, Trashologist, licensed/insured, with truck/trailer. Call/text 845-866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

Computer Sales

Fax, Copy, Print

JS COMPUTER REPAIR Mobile Computer Repair. 40.00 per visit. www.jmswebservices.com 727-643-0697

free quote & DEMO (727) 360-7070

Marine BOAT FOR SALE 2017 19 ft NauticStar XS 115 HP Four Stroke Yamaha. Excellent Condition. $26,800 727-266-9677

Pets / Animals

Lawn & Landscape

TREE PRUNING & DEBRIS CLEANUP Serving South St. Petersburg • Free Estimates • 727-308-8650

“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

Miscellaneous Services 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

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

PAM ART Will paint your pet from a photo. $40. Also do fun ‘day of dead’ portraits. Call 727-323-5651 or EMail me: Pamela. Masuk1@gmail.com. See some of my art on Instagram or Facebook @ Pamelamasukart. Plumbing

PLUMBING PROFLO PLUMBING 727-902-7077

#CFC1430429 State certified, residential/ commercial service. Senior and military discount. $25 off service with ad. Locally owned and operated. Real Estate for Rent TOWN SHORES JAMISON Upper Story Corner Waterfront Unit. No Pets. First/Last/ Security, 55+, 6mos. 2BR/2BA. 1250 sq.ft.

Covered Parking, Gas, Cable, Wi-Fi Included. Pictures Upon Request. 352-328-8760 Yard/Garage Sale ESTATE SALE 1829 60th St So. FridaySunday 7am to 3pm. Last minute Christmas gifts, women’s medium clothes, lots of costume jewelry and much more!. Real Estate for Sale

3 DUPLEX LOTS Gulfport between Marina and Beach Blvd. 2 very rentable 2/1 structures on property

$525,000

Bill Sullivan, Realtor® billsullivanrealtor@gmail.com 727-242-0624 or

St.Happy Pete Beach Public Library Holidays

The Little Free Pantry located just outside the St. Pete Beach Library, 7470 Gulf Blvd., has been more popular than anticipated and they would appreciate any donations. Also for the kids: Try their new Take & Make Kits on the themes of art, engineering, coding or upcycling. Activities are geared toward grades 3 to 5 and offer a fun, handson way to learn at home. Visit spblibrary.com for more, or to browse the catalog.

The Market is GREAT! Call me for a FREE market Real Estate for Sale evaluation on your home 5410 11th Ave South $249,900

Happy Holidays

The Market is GREAT! 727-410-5035

Dina Gamma, Realtor®

Call me for a FREE gammadina10@gmail.com

market evaluation on your home Thinking Selling? Call me! 5410of 11th Ave South $249,900

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE! PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED LINE ADS ONLINE!

theGabber.com

Charyl Gargel, Realtor® charylg@gmail.com

727-643-1183

Dina Gamma, Realtor®

727-410-5035

For Sale or Rent

gammadina10@gmail.com

Thinking of Selling? Call me!

theGabber.com

Located in South Pasadena, in the famous waterfront Chateaux Tower. PENTHOUSE 2 bed 2 bath unit on the 16th floor featuring gorgeous open water views and is totally remodeled. Available for $535K, or rent $2850/mo. We also have a 4th floor corner unit for $399k (currently rented with good income). Call 702-580-1552

Happy Holidays

from everyone at Your Florida Real Estate Company

Call us today and let us show you the difference a personal relationship makes.

Debbie

Cunningham YOUR FLORIDA REAL ESTATE COMPANY

(727) 460-5418

Cinnamon Ice Cream with Caramel Swirl & Gluten-Free Ginger Snap Let It Be will donate $1 per cup or cone sold to the Gabber Newspaper. Dec. 1-Dec. 31 3127 Beach Blvd. S. • Gulfport • 727-543-4949

DebbieCunninghamTeam@gmail.com

MYSTPETE.COM

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

solutions

DEADLINES HAVE CHANGED! 5 p.m. Friday for next Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue.

We Are Moving! Starting in early January 2021, our new office will be located at 6641 Central Avenue within the West Central Shopping plaza!

Marie Drew mdrew@remax.net

727-657-1259 MarieDrew.com

YOUR GULFPORT LOCAL EXPERT! ERT!! ERT theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

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(877) 880-1212 | CoastDental.com *Free Professional Take-Home Teeth Whitening. ADV – Free Whitening Special – Marketing 2020. $25 value. Must schedule and show for an appointment at Coast Dental & Orthodontics by January 31, 2021. Offer expires 1/30/2021. Offer limited to one per customer. Minimum fee only. Fee may vary with complexity of case. ADDITIONAL CHARGES MAY BE INCURRED FOR RELATED SERVICES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED IN INDIVIDUAL CASES. (FL PATIENTS ONLY - THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.) The dentists and hygienists are employees or independent contractors of Coast Florida, P.A., Coast Dental, P.A., (Adam Diasti, DDS, DN12490). Coast Dental Services, LLC complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. © 2020 Coast Dental. All rights reserved. CD-103226 R 11/2020

theGabber.com | December 17 - December 23, 2020

The Gabber: December 17, 2020

Articles inside

The Gabs: Knowing how 2020 turned out, would you have done anything differently?

Pets for Adoption

Obituaries

A Song of Hope and Healing

Driver Takes Another Swipe at Trolley Market Square

Opera, Books & Holiday Craft s

Business Beat: Chocolate, Seafood and Sundries

PCSO to Residents: Do As I Say, Not As I Do

Dear Gabby

2020 Got You Down? Here's Where to Go For Help

St Pete NAACP Leaders Discuss Racial Justice in Annual Meeting

Intrigue Along the Inlet: Commerce and Conflict at Bunce’s Pass A two-part series

Renaissance Dad: Holiday Perfect

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