The Gabber: December 29, 2022

Gulfportian of the Year

Marissa Stewart was a visitor to Florida in 2015, having come down from her lifelong home in West Virginia for her sister’s wedding, and was browsing a local listing of events when she came across something that immediately caught her eye.

“What is this thing called GeckoFest?” she asked her sister. “Where is Gulfport?”

Since there was no formal wedding reception planned, the entire wedding party took in the annual event, which had a Mardi Gras theme.

She knew then that she would eventually move to Gulfport, thinking at first that it would be after retirement. But she changed her mind and became a Florida resident in the spring of 2016.

Today she is known locally as Marissa Stewart-Dix, because within a short time she met the man who would become her husband, Derrick. They had their wedding on the beach in Gulfport and were living in the city by the fall of 2017.

But aside from Gulfport’s charm, one thing that impressed both of them was that so many residents shared their passion for communi-

By Monroe Roark

Gulfport Art Center board member Marissa Stewart Dix.

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

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Cathy Salustri Loper cathy@thegabber.com

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publisher’s note

Looking Back, Looking Forward

As I write this, I’m glorying in a piece of toffee my friend Mike McCue sold me. He runs Stella’s Sundries, our next-door neighbor, and while y’all won’t read this until after Christmas, I’m writing it before Christmas (we give our staff the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day off so they can have a break, which means putting together two editions of the paper in one week). Mike just helped me put together a wonderful gift basket for my dad, and another one for Barry’s mom, and I was so happy I hugged him (I’m not a hugger, as those who know me can attest).

You’ll have to forgive me if this publisher’s note ventures a bit into “Hard Candy” territory (readers who found The Gabber after 2014, that’s the name of my once-upon-a-time opinion column), but this has been perhaps the worst four months of my life. The worst, yes, but also the best. Stay with me.

In September, Barry and I caught COVID-19, and, while Barry didn’t take the Paxlovid, I did — and after Hurricane Ian passed by us, a couple of things happened: My dad was rushed to the hospital (nicely put, his colon exploded), and I had COVID rebound. Then I caught strep, because, sure, why not?

Things got worse from there. At one time, we had three out of four parents not doing so hot. My dad went from the ICU to a regular room to rehab, then back to the ICU, then to a regular room, and from there, to Hospice. On Barry’s birthday last month, we rushed to the Largo hospice because the nurses there told us his death was imminent.

The next day, the doctor moved my dad to rehab. Turns out pumping an 81-year-old man full of opioids for three months isn’t a great idea (especially when that man hasn’t had anything stronger than a Tylenol in 29 years), and the doctor rounded through the Hospice as my dad was coming off a dose. He asked to go to rehab, and – good lord willing and the creek don’t rise –he’ll be home Dec. 30. I bless that doctor for showing up when he did, but curse the nurse who gave my dad the opioids over his protests, telling me, “He says he doesn’t have pain because he doesn’t like how the drugs make him feel.” (This was not our South Pinellas Empath Hospice, but Accent in Largo).

The important thing is that my dad’s not dying any faster than the rest of us, and he should be home soon. That’s why it’s one of the best years. It’s also one of the best because I turned 50 and celebrated it with three of my oldest friends. We spent the weekend on Treasure Island (shout out to Fusion for a great setup), and for a few days, I was an idiot 11-year-old watching supremely bad movies and eating hot dogs and macaroni and cheese (pro-tip: Hulk Hogan’s Santa With Muscles flick is not as good as it sounds).

But back to Mike. He’s one of the first people I met in Gulfport — we were neighbors when I lived at Big Blue (2727 49th St. S.) and seeing him always makes me happy – and reminds me why I love Gulfport: Everyone’s a neighbor, and, as the mayor once told me, even if we don’t always like each other very much, we would be there when we needed each other.

So, despite whatever troubles and hardships 2022 brought me, as I look ahead to 2023, I look ahead to a year filled with friends and neighbors, and, as always, I’m thrilled to spend another year surrounded by the only home I ever want: Gulfport.

Happy 2023, y’all! –Cathy

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.

The Wrong Steps

Why would the architect design (and the Center’s management approve) the new center with 20-plus steps? It’s a “senior” center for heaven’s sake, even if some of the employees who will work in that new center are not seniors. Way too many steps for a local, small-town business! Makes no sense at all! —Margaret Carusoferraro, North Redington Beach and hopefully a future Gulfportian

The Gabber asked the City of Gulfport to respond. Here’s what we learned: Many hours went into the development and design of the new Gulfport Senior Center concept, taking into consideration the land available to build the space needed for the growing senior population, the 50+ year age range of the Center’s participants, as well as the vast levels of abilities and disabilities of the people we serve. New design concepts, including Universal Design (UD), became the focal point while designing the new building. UD allows for people to use all spaces with the same effort, regardless of your level of ability (or disability.) The required staircase in the new Senior Center design is a perfect example of UD: Unnoticed by the common eye, the stair treads are wider, the rise is shorter, and resting platforms are perfectly placed all allowing for the maximum use at the lowest level of effort. Besides, all who prefer not to use the stairs or are unable to use them have access to the elevator, conveniently located in the main lobby. –Rachel Cataldo, Senior Center Supervisor

Want more info on UD? Check out washington.edu/doit/universal-design-process-principles-and-applications

Holiday Decoration Contest Winners

A number of entries were received this Season for the Holiday Decorations Contest. Santa, along with a few of his elves, ventured out on a rainy Tuesday

evening and found many wondrous, wintry sights! All the entries were glittering with holiday spirit! The choice was a difficult task for Santa and his elves, as so many entries really did a fantastic job! The winner of the General Theme is Christopher Feltman (2829 57th St. S.), and the winner of the Commercial Theme is Shell (5150 Gulfport Blvd. S.) Please check out all the other entries that decorated this holiday season (in no particular order): 2832 57th St. S.; 5902 15th Ave. S.; 5521 12th Ave. S.; 5517 18th Ave. S.; 1902 53rd St. S.; 2825 53rd St. S.; and 3215 Beach Blvd. S. Thank you to all who participated in this year’s contest. You truly brightened up Gulfport this season. –Marivel Gutierrez, Gulfport Recreation Center

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

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REMEMBER: Today is the first day of the rest of your life!

The Year in Review

A Look Back at The Gabber’s Favorite Front-Page Articles

Selected by Gabber Staff

As we’re halfway through our third year under new owners, we have started to develop two Gabber traditions: The Thanksgiving week “Gratitude” issue, and the “Year in Review” issue. It’s fun to look back over the different cover stories from each month and think about which one we believe had the most impact or told the best story about our community.

If you were to compare our favor-

ites from 2022 with 2021 or 2020, you’d notice there’s a lot less news about COVID-19, which is a good thing – although most everyone in our office didn’t catch COVID until 2022. What you would notice about the covers from all three years, though, is the lack of national news. The Gabber is proud to cover hyperlocal news – although we’re no longer the Gulfport Gabber (and haven’t been in several decades), we cover

issues relevant to South Pinellas, with Gulfport as our top priority.

This is why you’ll see some of our cover stories feature news from places like Kenneth City and St. Petersburg, but, as you read the following pages, you’ll see that most of our favorite covers tell Gulfport’s stories. We’re committed to telling everyone’s stories, one Thursday at a time.

See you in a year!

January

Girl Power. We love this issue because it showcases the good work our Gulfport teachers are doing at Gulfport Montessori Elementary. The Girlfriends Club at the school meets weekly, and in the meetings they talk about leadership and female empowerment.

February

Vintage Gulfport. It’s no secret that this paper’s publisher loves Florida and Florida history, so it’s sort of surprising that it took almost two years to find a great reason to use a vintage Gulfport postcard on one of our covers. We loved Marilyn Sheffield’s story.

March

Fleeing Ukraine. Years ago, The Gabber reported on Gulfport Garage’s owner’s pet lemur, Fonzie (only in Gulfport do you see a man out for a walk with his lemur). This time, we reported on his gargantuan undertaking to get his fiancé’s family out of Ukraine — and into Gulfport.

April

From Ukraine to Gulfport. At this time in 2022, Putin’s vicious attacks on Ukraine made nightly news, with each atrocity seemingly worse than the last, and we followed the Hamota family’s odyssey from Ukraine to Gulfport with mounting anxiety. When they made it here, we collectively exhaled.

May

Jeremiah Makes History. Jeremiah Daniels IV may have fell .02 points shy of valedictorian, but as the first Black male salutatorian, he definitely didn’t shy away from making history. While Daniels was the first, we know he won’t be the last. This cover story, incidentally, was the only one that received a unanimous vote in our office.

June

A Town in Chaos. It’s no secret that the daily paper of record doesn’t have the staff to cover small-town city halls anymore. Kenneth City residents called us and implored us to cover Kenneth City politics when the charter officers resigned en masse. Their response to our coverage reminded us just how much local news matters.

July

Not Your Mother’s Senior Center. When the Gulfport Senior Center announced the formation of its Adventure Club, we talked to Senior Center Supervisor Rachel Cataldo, who explained that today’s over-50 people are a lot more active than “seniors” used to be, and because of that, yes, the Senior Center has helicopter rides and parasailing. We can’t wait until they form a SCUBA club.

August

Worship or Activism? Pastor Andy Oliver ruffles some feathers with his church’s sign at Allendale United Methodist Church — and really upset the religious apple cart by refusing to stop marrying couples who wanted to sanctify their relationship, even if the couple didn’t consist of a man and a woman. As to allegations that he’s an activist and not a religious leader, Oliver reminded us that Jesus was an activist.

September

Pirate Power. Monroe Roark tackled the South Pinellas high school football scene, braving many a rainy night to report on how the local teams fared from week to week. While he covered all the high schools in The Gabber’s coverage area (don’t miss his article about signing day at Lakewood High, p. 10), in our hearts, we smiled a little bit bigger when Bogie brought home a win.

October

Tim McBride Gets the Job Done. We can’t beat the “local news matters” drum without also giving time to all things local, including local grocery stores like Rollin’ Oats. Tim McBride’s a shining star at the St. Pete grocer, and it was absolutely our pleasure to let everyone know about what a great job he does.

Ja’tanaisha Thompson is a freshman at the University of Florida, albeit not a typical freshman. For starters, she just turned 17. Thompson was still 16 when she graduated from Gibbs High School last May and arrived on the UF campus in Gainesville a month later. She made the

November

A Head Start. If you take the time to look around, you can find good news everywhere. Ja’tanaisha Thompson started prepping for college in middle school, and she graduated from Gibbs early – at 16 – and headed straight to UF, where they awarded her a full-ride scholarship as she pursues a career in the legal profession.

December

No Snow? No Problem. Sure, Florida winters don’t look like they do up north, but Gulfportians are clearly 100% OK with that. After all, there’s no way Santa could deliver gifts via kayak in Michigan, right?

Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport

Here’s Who’s Running for Gulfport City Council Ballot Order Determined at

By Monroe Roark

When Gulfportians go to the polls on March 14, every voter in every ward of the city will decide who will represent issues in Ward II and Ward IV. The Ward II representative, Christine Brown, will face three challengers: Christopher Butler-Jones, Jonathan Micocci, and Greg Simek. Ian O’Hara will challenge incumbent Michael Fridovich for the Ward IV seat.

With the field set for the Ward II and Ward IV races, City Clerk Lesley DeMuth saw to it that their exact placement on the ballot was determined not by alphabetical order or incumbent status, but by blind luck.

Section 506 (b) of the city charter requires that the names of the candidates “appear on the ballot by their surnames arranged in the order determined by lot conducted by the city clerk, and that the council

Council

Meeting

may adopt rules of procedure for the conduct of such lot,” according to a city staff report. “The city clerk is required to notify the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections of the names of the qualified candidates to be placed on the ballot by Dec. 31, 2022.”

The City Council’s rules of procedure for conducting this lot has been to perform a drawing of a paper lot, with each piece of paper an identical size. This must happen during a publicly noticed meeting.

DeMuth put separate cards containing the names of the four Ward II candidates in a cup and drew them one at a time, as stipulated by the city charter. She then did the same for the two candidates in the Ward IV race.

Jonathan Micocci tops the Ward II ballot, followed in order by Christine

Brown, Christopher Butler-Jones, and Greg Simek. Brown is the incumbent and the current vice mayor.

Michael Fridovich, also an incumbent, is the first name on the Ward IV ballot, followed by Ian O’Hara.

Qualifying for the election took place a few weeks ago and ended Dec. 12. Each candidate received a letter, dated that same day, from DeMuth with notification that they had successfully qualified for the general election, which is scheduled for March 14.

The Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections has set the schedule for sending mail ballots. The deadline for mailing military/overseas ballots is Jan. 28, while the mailing schedule for domestic ballots is to begin no earlier than Feb. 2 and end no later than Feb. 9.

Blind luck is how Gulfport decides its ballot order.

PINELLAS COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

Seminole Beach Pinellas

County’s Forgotten Settlement

By James Schnur

Overcrowded Pinellas County does not have many ghost towns. However, even as the Florida land boom gripped the area a century ago, a beautiful stretch of the central Pinellas beaches became a ghost town of sorts, a failed settlement that has since transformed into an area with multimillion-dollar waterfront views.

Halfway between St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach, the Redington Beaches are distinct communities. Redington Beach retains its residential character that’s existed since voters decided to incorporate in 1944. North Redington Beach and Redington Shores have an abundance of condos and businesses, with nearly all of the single-family homes on the bayside.

Planning an Early Resort

Shortly after Noel Mitchell began his Mitchell Beach settlement on the northern tip of Johns Pass in early 1914, Thomas Pearce and John Sturgis Bradbury planned another development a few miles to the north. These Tampa men had witnessed the growth of Indian Rocks, and seized an opportunity to stake their claim to approximately 288 acres that spanned from 150th Avenue to 173rd Avenue.

Aside from Mitchell’s small settlement, no other structures existed along Olive Island, the name given to the island that spanned from John’s Pass to Redington Shores. No bridges crossed over any of the Gulf Beaches. Only occasional and temporary fishing camps used by the tarpon fleet or other fishing crews occupied this then-narrow island that extended to the county beach access in Redington Shores at 182nd Avenue.

Bradbury and Pearce called their proposed development “Seminole Beach,” named for the tiny agricultural community just across Boca Ciega Bay. When they chose Seminole Beach as the community’s

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name, the mainland settlement of Seminole was quite small, amounting to only a handful of groves, a few farmers, and a couple of merchants. Indeed, Seminole did not incorporate until November 1970, making it the youngest city in the county.

A Remote Destination on a Beautiful Beach

Midway between Pass-a-Grille and Sand Key, Bradbury completed his Seminole Beach home in February 1914. Pearce, a writer for the Tampa Tribune, had fallen in love with what is now the northern tip of Treasure Island in 1908, a place that had little development at the time.

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This aerial view of the Redington Beaches in the mid-1960s shows a growing community. A half-century earlier, in the mid-1910s, this was the heart of Seminole Beach.

FLORIDA MEMORY

He bought some land for $1.25 an acre and made a handsome profit.

These Tampa entrepreneurs hired crews to plat nearly 300 lots in early 1914, most of them in the area just north of the current Redington-North Redington town line. At a beachfront location near where 169th Avenue meets Gulf Boulevard, workers constructed a two-story, 18-bedroom structure known as the Inn at Seminole Beach.

This hotel featured a parlor, dining room, and two bathrooms. Dredges carved a path to accommodate boats near the shoreline. Workers added an L-shaped dock on the beach where those boats could moor.

Visitors soon arrived. They took the St. Petersburg streetcar line to the Jungle Prada area, caught a boat, and arrived at Seminole Beach. With no freshwater wells on site, boats also brought water, supplies, and workers to the resort. By September 1914, a small dockside store opened, along with the Seminole Beach Post Office. In addition to serving as the developer of Seminole Beach, Bradbury became the postmaster.

Tough Competition and a Quick Demise

By 1915, visitors who came to Seminole Beach could enjoy a variety of activities. The Inn attracted

crowds. Day-trippers came to the island to swim, fish, hunt, and motorboat. Bradbury brought Lookout, his 60-foot boat, down from Maine to increase the number of daily trips between Seminole Beach and the mainland landing at the Jungle.

The future looked great for Seminole Beach. Then a high tide of misfortune occurred.

To the north, Indian Rocks celebrated the arrival of a railroad line that reached the beach. The Tampa and Gulf Coast Railway offered a convenient way for tourists and residents from Tampa to visit Pinellas since no bridge crossed Tampa Bay before 1924. The railroad ran along the current Pinellas Trail in lower Pi-

The Bath Club, shown here in 1939, became a popular destination near the former center of Seminole Beach.

A Party at Lakewood

On Signing Day, Five Players Announce College Plans

By Monroe Roark

Many high schools treat National Signing Day for college-bound athletes as a quiet, almost solemn oc-

casion. The athlete sits at a table between his or her parents, with a high school coach and maybe

a college coach standing behind them, and smiles for a photo with pen in hand as if actually putting a name on a letter of intent.

The Dec. 21 event for football players at Lakewood High School was nothing like that.

With a table at center court in the gymnasium surrounded by balloons, and the stands filled with family and friends, five standout seniors from this year’s squad were introduced individually by head coach Cory Moore and appeared on a red carpet, decked out in their finest menswear.

While there are other players who will play at the collegiate level

From left, Isaiah Nixon, Amare Garrett, Anthony Colandrea, Aviyon Smith-Mack, and Montravius Lloyd.

MONROE ROARK

but have yet to decide where, the five recognized on this day were Anthony Colandrea (University of Virginia), Amare Garrett (University of Toledo), Montravius Lloyd (University of Pittsburgh), Isaiah Nixon (University of Central Florida), and Aviyon Smith-Mack (Long Island University).

Each player took his turn at the table and read a statement thanking God, his parents, his coaches, and everyone else who played a role in helping him to get to this point. Then he announced his school choice and donned a ball cap signifying that school, if he was not already wearing one.

It was a fun event reflecting the milestone each player reached after years of hard work on the practice field and in games, the vast majority of which Lakewood has won during their tenure. The Spartans have reached the state semi-finals three times in the past four seasons.

Moore also recognized some Lakewood alumni in the audience, including current Jackson State player Tre’von Riggins, who took the microphone for a moment and encouraged the athletes and other students in the crowd – while, at Moore’s suggestion, showing off the huge ring he wore as a member of the undefeated Southwestern Athletic Conference champions coached by Deion Sanders.

Moore closed out the ceremony with a similar speech of his own, assuring every young person in the arena that he or she can achieve whatever goal they choose, if they’re willing to “grind,” as he put it.

Players posed for photos with Lakewood Principal Erin Savage as well as coaches and family members. They are the latest in a long line of Spartans who made the transition to college football, some of whom are past or present NFL players. Time will tell if any of this latest group sends back a professional jersey to be hung in the school offices next to those already there.

Marissa continued from cover ty service. Specifically, it is Marissa’s involvement in many various public service initiatives, both on and off the job, that made her The Gabber’s 2022 choice for Gulfportian of the Year.

A career social worker, she spent several years in West Virginia working with people with disabilities as well as families connected with Child Protective Services and the senior population. Since moving south she has worked with the Pinellas County school system, first in a middle school, and, since 2020, at Gulfport Elementary School.

“As a social worker, you’re on the lookout to meet unmet needs,” she said. “I do that at school, and whenever Derrick and I are talking about community service projects or events we can put together, we are always trying to make sure we are meeting a need.”

She joined the Gulfport Kiwanis Club in 2019 and later served as its president for two years. Under her leadership, the club hosted a community-wide baby shower and resource fair and served 40 expectant moms and their children under 5 years of age with community resources, stuffed baby bags, diapers, and car seat vouchers. They also donated books to the Barbershop Book Club initiative; raised $1,800 during Shopapalooza 2021 to fulfill 50 Christmas wish lists for special-needs students at Hollins High School; provided masks/hand sanitizer to Gulfport Elementary; sponsored the Gulfport Elementary Girlfriends Club fees for the girls to walk in the St. Pete MLK Day parade; and sponsored food drives to support the Kind Mouse initiative.

During the pandemic in June of 2020, she and her husband went to Gulfport’s beach with chairs and food for their own private Juneteenth celebration. Their interaction with the few families also on the beach sparked the idea of an official celebration in Gulfport for Juneteenth, which had just become a national holiday. The couple led the drive to make that event a reality in 2021.

“The Gulfport Kiwanis family is like home to me,” she said. “The mem-

ABBY BAKER

bers and their gusto and hearts for service really empowered me to go forward with my involvement in the Gulfport community and now on the Gulfport Historical Society board and as a co-chair of the Gulfport Arts Center.”

Marissa and Derrick are always on the lookout for volunteer opportunities. A Tampa native, Derrick spent six years essentially as a professional volunteer with AmeriCorps in Arizona, where he worked to develop educational and sports programs for young people.

“That’s kind of what bonded us was that we both wanted to be involved in the community. We were looking for more opportunities to help people,” said Marissa. “When we moved to Gulfport, we didn’t have to look very far at all.”

Serving the community (especially its children), meeting needs, and simply being a blessing to others is her calling. She admits that it stretches her thin at times, but once that passion for service gets hold of her, she likes to get after it with everything she has.

“It’s not about ego or a motive. It’s about making one corner of the world better with the intention that it will spread beyond your perimeter and into the world. It’s about doing what’s right and best for others,” she said.

“Derrick and I love the Gulfport community. We intentionally chose this community to live, work, play, and volunteer for a reason. It’s become abundantly clear in the past few years why we were drawn here.”

Overheard at the Dec. 20 Gulfport City Council Meeting

By Monroe Roark

About candidate events

“We received requests from two organizations that would like to host candidate forums or meet-the-candidate type events at the Catherine Hickman Theater. One is Jan. 26 with the Gulfport Merchants Chamber, and The Gabber would like to host one on Feb. 2. If Council has no objections, I recommend you approve both of them and that way you are not choosing one organization over another. We will just be providing the venue and the sound system. We will not be recording it or doing anything but giving them a facility.”

–City Manager Jim O’Reilly

About the Boca Ciega Yacht Club

“The city attorney and I had today what we view as a productive meeting with representatives of the Boca Ciega Yacht Club. We believe we are moving toward bringing you something perhaps in late January. But we did work out some details and will bring back a mutually agreed upon document as we spoke of last time.” –O’Reilly

About the Senior Center

“First thing this morning the federal budget for both the House and the Senate was approved. It does include $1.5 million in funding for the senior center. I can’t stress how big a deal it is to do this without a sitting congressman. Until the new representative is sworn in in January, to this point District 13 does not have a congressman. We were able to stay in the budget.” –O’Reilly

“Thank you to former Congressman Crist and his staff for all their help.” –Mayor Sam Henderson

“I’m really very pleased to hear about the $1.5 million. I’m on the board to help raise money for the senior center. That helps us get a little bit closer.” –Councilmember Paul Ray (Ward III)

About the Holidays and Festive Gulfport

“Christmas is here. Holiday seasons are here. Please check on your neighbors and your friends and make sure everybody is OK.” –Vice Mayor Christine Brown (Ward II)

“Last meeting of 2022, huh? 2022 wasn’t that bad. A heck of a lot better than 19, 20 and 21, wasn’t it? Looking forward to 2023. I wish

everybody a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and see you in January.” –Ray

“It dawned on me when I went by the boat parade, and we have a golf cart parade, we have a bike parade; what other parades do we have? A safety parade. We should just name our city Parade City. We have parades all the time. It’s just wonderful. The folks in our town are so festive.” –Brown

“Everybody have a nice holiday. Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Zoroastrian Day, Happy Kwanzaa and any other holiday I can think of.” –Councilmember Michael Fridovich (The actual holiday is Zartosht No-Diso, one of the Zorostrian Holy Days.)

nellas. In 1914, crews built a spur of the railroad that ran along 130th Avenue and Wilcox Road in the Anona area south of Largo, crossing the intracoastal near Kolb Park into Indian Rocks.

With the spur completed, people

from Tampa, St. Petersburg, and many other areas could ride a railroad into the heart of Indian Rocks Beach by 1915. Unfortunately, anyone wanting to visit Seminole Beach still had to take a boat because a body of water known as Indian Pass separated Seminole Beach from Indian Rocks. Business at the Inn at Seminole Beach soon plummeted, with the fully-furnished but empty hotel put up for rent in December 1916.

Isolated from the mainland and without access to the railroad or drinking water, Seminole Beach went into decline. The settlement’s demise came after some terrible storms hit the beach. Waterspouts and bad weather destroyed Bradbury’s beach home, Pearce’s cottage, and most of the warehouse and post office. Currents swept away nearly all of the hotel. With only remnants of a few structures, Seminole Beach became a ghost town by the early 1920s.

A Different Developer and a New Life

During the mid-1920s, advertisements occasionally touted the potential of Seminole Beach. However, investors had little interest in the abandoned area at a time when sections of Indian Rocks and St. Pete Beach became popular destinations.

Welch Causeway connected Madeira Beach to the mainland in 1926. By that time, David Welch had secured many tracts of the former Seminole Beach development that later became part of Madeira Beach.

In February 1926, a few months before Welch Causeway opened, Charles E. Redington moved from Indiana to St. Petersburg. Redington had started investing in St. Petersburg a few years earlier. He decided to sell property on the beaches in 1929, beginning at Pass-a-Grille. He marketed furnished cottages in his first “Redington Beach” development in 1932. This original “Redington Beach” was actually located near the Don CeSar, in what is now St. Pete Beach.

Charles Redington moved his real estate interests to the former Seminole Beach site north of Madeira in the mid-1930s. By that time, nothing remained of the original Seminole Beach settlement. Developers had even erased the identity of Seminole Beach from the official land plats.

With the closing of Indian Pass in July 1929 and Redington’s acquisition of the former Seminole Beach a few years later, plans soon called for the extension of Gulf Boulevard to connect Madeira Beach and Indian Rocks. Soon, the development of the Redingtons went into full swing.

This mid-1920s advertisement for the proposed Seminole Estates subdivision shows the location of Seminole Beach. By the time this graphic was created, Seminole Beach had become a ghost town. Only a few homes were built at Seminole Estates, near 54th Avenue North and Duhme Road, before the land boom ended.

Basketball at Bogie

The Winter Sport Could Bring Wins to Boca Ciega High

By Andrew Hill

The Boca Ciega High School basketball teams have a grand total of two starting seniors, however both the boys and girls teams got off to a 2-0 start with a cast of new faces and promising additions.

The second time around could be a charm for Mark Villenger, but the boys coach did not do half bad in his first season for the Pirates. Villenger, who had a tall order to fill the shoes of former coach Randy Shuman, said the transition to a new coach has been expectedly lengthy since Shuman had been the BCHS coach for 35 years.

“Obviously theres a distinct change of things,” Villenger said. “We’re trying to institute a different way of playing, and there’s a lot of newness for everybody.”

Last year was also Villenger’s first as a teacher at BCHS, which he said took some adjustments in itself, but he still guided the team to a .500 record and a respectable showing in the Pinellas County Athletic Conference Tournament.

The Pirates’ early season victories have come against the less-established programs in Dunedin and Hollins. Villenger said the Pirates will discover what they really have this season when they take on perennial powerhouses Gibbs (Jan. 20) and Lakewood (and Jan. 13).

Reese White is the Pirates’ lone returning senior and there are high expectations for the 6-foot-8 thirdyear starter. The other two tenured

players are senior James Edison, who has healed from an ACL injury which kept him out all last season, and Jamie Flournoy, who is now eligible to play for Boca Ciega after being a late transfer last season.

From there, Villenger had to be creative with his roster. The other two starters, Robert Harris and Jelani Nix, Jr., are both sophomores. Villenger said the Pirates fans will be treated to many different faces on the court thanks to the Pirates having healthy rotation opportunities in their favor.

“We’re going to play anywhere from nine to 12 players every night,” Villenger said. “We have strong depth, especially at the guard posi-

tion. There has to be a next man up mentality.”

The defensive efforts at the guard position will likely be led, Villenger said, by seniors Dominic Polk, Tez Woods and Hector Cranchez.

As with the season in general, Villenger said the team’s fortunes will depend on how it finishes, not the way it starts. And, Villenger added, playing time will be determined by who is showcasing the best defensive efforts in practices.

“Everyday, there’s a competition in practice,” Villenger said. “We want to be our own toughest opponent. Our mantra is the only way to get on the floor is to be a great defender. We don’t stress the starting lineup as much as the finishing. It could be five of anybody, and that probably does change game to game.”

The coach said the reserves (senior Gabe Green, sophomore Hunter Dyer, and juniors Dale Coley and Antwain Scott) will be in the mix each game. Senior Quartez Woods and junior Leonel Lukic will also be relied upon to keep the Pirates afloat when the starters need rest.

The Pirates have height for the 2022 campaign. Along with White, they have Nix at 6’4 and juniors Leo Lukic and Matias DiCristo, both of whom stand at 6’6.

“I like our size, but I believe speed is a greater factor than height,” Villenger said. “We’ve got some small guys, too, and they’re quick.”

The Pirates’ early season victories have come against the less-established programs in Dunedin and Hollins.

CATHY SALUSTRI

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

• /gulfportseniorcenter

Annual registration required. Free, residents; $50, non-residents. All programs subject to change without notice. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Stop by, join our weekly newsletter, or like us on Facebook for a full calendar of events.

Fitness Center now open! To provide 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

Medicare & Health Insurance Assistance Frustrated trying to navigate the insurance world? We have you covered! Make your appointment today.

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

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

Gulfcoast Legal Assistance Do you need assistance, with lifetime planning docs, Medicaid/Medicare issues, Social Security issues, food stamp issues, family law issues, consumer/debt collection Issues, or housing/contract Issues? Call to make an appointment with a legal representative. By appointment only.

The Girls Club A nw social group of senior, single lesbians who just wanna have fun! Meet for a cup of coffee, chit chat, & to plan monthly social events together. Jan. 3, 3 p.m.

NEW! Senior Moments: Communication Workshop Practice your communication & listening skill and your ability to speak on your feet with impromptu table topic discussions and peer-evaluations. Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.

NEW DAY & TIME The Widowing Tribe This new group provides widowed people a chance to meet and socially empower each other, build resilience, & make a positive difference. Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m.

Veterans Coffee Connection Veterans of all service eras are invited to gether for coffee, support, friendship, and to learn about available community resources. Jan. 6, 10 a.m.

Gulfport ROCKS! Join the party and create some fun rock art. All supplies provided. MUST Pre-register. Sponsored by Moore Medicare Options. Jan. 6, 1:30 p.m.

New Year Resolution VISION BOARDS Use the law of attraction to define & attain your goals for 2023. MUST Pre-register. Sponsored by Simply Healthcare. Jan. 9, 4:30 p.m. Ballroom Dance Lessons Freshen up your dance moves before the Senior Prom with this 3-week class. MUST Pre-register. Mondays, Jan. 9, Jan. 23, Jan. 30; 5:30 p.m.

Rocking In The New Year: Wreath Making –1/10 @ 12:30 pm. Create & take your very own wreath for the new year. MUST Pre-register. All supplies provided, sponsored by The Princess Martha. Jan. 10, 12:30 p.m.

HCA Lunch and Learn: SPEECH & AGING Speech, cognitive, and swallowing disorders can affect many adults. Come learn more about evaluation & treatments. Must Pre-Register. Jan. 10. 2 p.m.

Death Talks: Meet the Death Doula Take the mystery & fear out of death and dying with these end-of-life discussions. Jan. 10, 3 p.m.

Health Talk with Labrador Primary: YOUR MEDICINES – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

The more you know about your medicines, the easier it is to avoid problems. Dr. McCoy will give you the tools you need to work with your health care team and manage your medicines. Jan. 12, 12 p.m.

Rhythm & Groove Jam Session Let’s make music together at our new monthly hootenanny. Bring your instrument & join others for a casual jamming group. Open to anyone & everyone, all instruments, all levels of experience, & listeners. Jan. 12, 3 p.m.

GEMS Getaways

Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum & Lunch at Po’ Folks $6 (Members) / $10 (Non-Members). Explore St. Pete’s Arboretum with more than 500 palms and cycads from around the world. Next enjoy a southern-style lunch at Po’ Folks. Jan. 19; $6; $10 nonmembers

Lunch at Friendly Fisherman & John’s Pass. Serving the freshest catch, tastiest sides, & the best view for all. After lunch, stroll along the many shops throughout John’s Pass. Jan. 26; $8; $12 nonmembers

MONDAYS

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

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

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

Spanish for Beginners 10 a.m., Room 107

Stretch & Strength 10 a.m., Casino

Wisdom Healing Qigong 11 a.m., Theater lobby

Mahjong 12 p.m., Room 107

Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby

Chair Yoga 1 p.m., Casino

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

Chair Volleyball 3 p.m., Dining Hall

TUESDAYS

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

Line Dancing for Beginners 10 a.m.,

Neighborhood Center

Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino

Gulfport Quilting Club 10 a.m., Room 106

Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby

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

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

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

WEDNESDAYS

Gentle Mindful Yoga 10 a.m., Neighborhood Center

Investment Discussion Group 10 a.m., Room 107

Canasta 1 p.m., Theater lobby

Bingo 1:30 p.m., Dining Hall

Intermediate Spanish 6 p.m., Room 106

Gulfport Toastmasters 6 p.m., Room 107

THURSDAYS

Guided Meditation 10 a.m., Room 107

Tai Chi 10 a.m., Casino

Stretch & Strength 10 a.m., Casino

Texas Hold ‘Em 11 a.m., Theater lobby

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

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

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

FRIDAYS

Wellness Movement 9 a.m., Room 106

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

Knitting & Crocheting 10 a.m., Theater lobby

Healing Yoga Therapy 11 a.m., Casino

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

Dominos 1 p.m., Theater lobby

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

Gulfport Public Library 5501 28th Ave. S. • 727-893-1074 • /gulfportlibraryfl Mygulfport.us/gpl • Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

All programs free and subject to change.

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

Baby Time Fridays, 10:15 a.m.

Teen Space Spend time with friends and make new ones. Play games, make art, watch movies, or just hang out. Activities vary – and what we do is up to you! Ages 12-18 only. Tuesdays starting Jan. 10, 4 p.m.

Garden Grandpa If you have little ones in grades K-5, join us the first Wednesday of the month in the Reading Garden. Mr. Albert will share his knowledge of gardening and sustainability through storytelling and hands-on fun. Jan. 4, 4 p.m.

Come & Go Craft Drop in for creative, self-directed crafting. For all ages, but

some pieces might be on the small side. Supplies are limited and are on a first come, first served basis. Crafting located on children’s area tables. Jan. 7, 10 a.m.

Grown-Up Movie Series Call 727-893-1074 for title. Jan. 7, 1 p.m.

Adult Craft Cord Wrapping Use colorful yarn to wrap your charger cord for your phone, tablet, or laptop. Yarn and cords will be provided or bring your own from home. Registration open Jan 5. Call 727-893-1074 or email library.programs@mygulfport.us. Jan 12, 2 p.m.

SHINE Presentation: Medicare Basics

Presentation on Medicare Parts A, B, C, & D and what they mean to you. FMI, visit www.

Swing Time Disco Party Jan. 13: 7 p.m., hustle lesson; 8 p.m., dance. $10. swingtime.info.

Casino Weekly Dances

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

floridashine.org. Jan. 18, 1 p.m.

Gulfport Book Club Discuss “The Peripheral” by William Gibson. Available as print and audio. Jan. 19, 2 p.m.

Lego Club See what construction challenges we have for you this week. Recommended for Grades k-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For additional information call 727-893-1074. Jan. 21, 2 p.m.

STEAM Club STEAM is short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Join us as we explore these concepts through stories and hands-on activities. Recommended for grades K-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Jan. 25, 4 p.m.

Argentine Tango: Tues., 6:30 p.m., $10 Swing: Weds., 7 p.m. $10 Latin Night: Thurs., 7 p.m. $10

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

Annual registration: $3; $25, nonresidents

Pickleball

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

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

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

PROGRAMS

School Year Child Care Program Registration continues for the 2022-23 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. 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 for the 2022-2023 Teen Night Program for teens in middle and high school, students 17 and younger. Recreation, social activities, field trips, cooking projects, guest speakers and service projects. Teens can use the gymnasium, game room and outdoor area. Mon., Wed., & Fri.: 6-9 p.m. Rec Center membership required: $3; $25, nonresidents.

CLASSES

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

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

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

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

Danskinetics Tues., 9 a,m. $6/class or $20/month. Carol: 845-654-0609

Hatha Yoga 6:15 p.m. $12/class or $40/ month. Denise: 727-251-8868.

Nia 10 a.m. $15/class, $40/month. Christine: 727-692-1896

Youth Hip Hop Fri., 6:30 p.m., ages 7-9; 7:30 p.m., ages 9-16. $40/month. Lisa: 727742-2594.

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

Tai Chi Gung Mon. 6:30p.m. and Fri. 10 a.m. $15/class or $50/month. Call Kare 727-2620880

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

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

Gulfport Community Players present “Exit Laughing” a comedy by Paul Elliott. Jan. 12 - 22; Thurs., Fri., & Sat.: 8 p.m. Matinees Sat. & Sun.: 2 p.m. Tickets $20 at gulfportcommunityplyers.org; $25 cash at door

Book Loving

Books We Loved in 2022

By Amanda Hagood

You’ve heard of think local, and even shop local. But what about read local? There’s at least one bold bunch of bibliophiles here in Gulfport that attempts to do exactly that: The Gabber Book Club, co-sponsored by The Gabber and Tombolo Books, meets once a month to discuss books set in Florida and/or written by Flori-

da authors. As we turn the page on 2022, a few favorites from the past year’s reading chart a course for adventures in the local literary landscape.

The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton. This richly textured “rockumentary-style” novel recounts the rise and fall of an

extraordinary interracial rock’n’roll duo amid the conflicted politics of the 1970s. This multi-voiced, compelling narrative is layered with oral histories, reportage, and other “sources” – all the products of Walton’s wildly inventive imagination (and her training in journalism at Florida A&M University).

‘The Coffee Lover’s Mystery’ series by Tara Lush. This cozy mystery series set in a quirky coastal village delightfully reminiscent of Gulfport features a plucky coffee shop owner who solves murders while brewing up the finest caffeination in town.

Lush, who also write romances under the name Tamara Lush, joined the club’s January meeting to dis-

AMANDA HAGOOD

cuss the art of the cozy (a kinder, gentler form of crime fiction), the brozy (same as a cozy, but pitched toward the fellas), and the emerging world of microfiction.

Battle for the Big Top: P. T. Barnum, James Bailey, John Ringling and the Death-Defying Saga of the American Circus by Les Standiford. A Florida Book Award-winning treatment of – you guessed it –the circus. In Standiford’s capable hands, the outlandish lives of circus promoters and performers float and fly like a continuous trapeze act (the group was especially moved by his treatment of elephant stars, such as the famous Jumbo). This may be particularly interesting reading now, in light of Ringling Brothers’ plans to reopen, after a long hiatus, in September 2023 – this time, sans elephants.

Among the Beautiful Beasts by Lori McMullen. This crowd favorite delves into the early life of Florida icon Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the journalist-turned-conservationist who successfully campaigned for the creation of Everglades National Park in 1947 and never stopped fighting for Florida’s environment until her death in 1998. This bio-fic novel explores Douglas’s flight from a stifling early marriage –where her nascent creativity and independent streak were not welcome – to the brave new world of turn-of-the-century Miami.

Matrix by Lauren Groff. OK, definitely not a Florida book! But a nevertheless stunning read by a well-loved Florida author, who breathes rich life into a narrow sliver of historical evidence on the life of

twelfth-century poet known only as Marie de France. Against a decidedly foreboding background (“the book just made me really nervous,” noted one book clubber), Groff conjures a world that feels lifted right out of a medieval tapestry, complete with saints having visions, nuns toting swords, and a giant labyrinth. Weird but worth it!

Want to join us on our next Florida literary adventure? On tap for 2023 we have The Magic Kingdom by Russell Banks (January), The Dinosaur Artist: Obsession, Betrayal, and the Quest for the Earth’s Ultimate Trophy by Paige Williams (February), and The Electric Woman: A Memoir in Death-Defying Acts by Tessa Fontaine (March). The Gabber Book Club meets the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. for dinner and discussion – all are welcome! Find us on Facebook (The Gabber Book Club) or on the Events page at Tombolo Books, or email amanda@gulfporthistoricalsociety.org.

The Gabber Book Club meets the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. for dinner and discussion – all are welcome!

Photos by Cameron Healy

Oscar Colón, St. Petersburg: “Quítate Tú” by Fania All-Stars Janessa Benavides, Miami: “Tamagotchi” by Omar Apollo

Jackson Vellve, St. Petersburg: “DVP” by PUP

Tucker Waud, St. Petersburg: “Nantuckets Sleighride” by Mountain

sudoku

Solution on page 27

Appellations

gabber on vacation

Here’s The Gabber in the Eastern Caribbean with Robert Reeves, Mickey Reeves, and Dan O’Neill (Yeah, we only see two people, too).

Have you taken the Gabber somewhere? We want to see your pictures! Please send a high-resolution photo and a brief description to news@thegabber.com.

ROBERT REEVES

things to do

Fireworks, Fireworks, and More Fireworks

Thursday, December 29

Yoga in Sunken Gardens End the year of 2022 with some realigning and strength through yoga. Join Vandana Dillon of Awaken 2 Yoga for a yoga class in St. Pete’s beautiful Sunken Gardens. Enjoy the botanical oasis while you spend the morning practicing yoga. The purchase of tickets for this class also allows customers all day admissions to the gardens to explore. Stay prepared by bringing a mat, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.  Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg. 10:30 a.m. $18-20. 727-551-3102, stpete.org

Food Pantry Donations  Everyone deserves enough food during the holidays, so lend a hand to those in need. Donate canned goods and other nonperishables to the Gulfport Senior Center’s food pantry. Need a little help? Call to register so you can get involved in receiving from the food pantry. Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 1 p.m.-3 p.m. 727-8935657

Early New Year’s Celebration Make a toast to the new year with your neighbors and friends. It is the perfect time to mix and mingle with other Seminole residents and talk about your new year’s resolutions as well as future plans. Freedom Square of Seminole, 7800 Liberty Lane, Seminole. 2:30 p.m. 727-4754123, freedomsquarefl.com

Friday, December 30

Let’s Eat! Join or volunteer with Yes Chef Village as they host a “village supper” for Gulfport and St. Pete children and low-income families. The intention is to bring nutrient-rich meals to families who don’t have these options in their everyday lives. Families have the choice to pay what they can for the meals, pay it forward, or pay nothing. The menu includes a mandarin and chestnut salad, sweet potato shepherd’s pie, orange sorbet, hibiscus tea, and lemon/lime water. Red Feather Studios, 1301 49th St. S., Gulfport. 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m. yeschefvillage.wordpress.com

Saturday, December 31

Taco ‘Bout a New Year’s Party Kick off your new year with an open bar, champagne toasts, and surf-and-turf tacos. An hour of an house margs, cocktails, and wine followed by lobster and tenderloin tacos sounds like the perfect new year’s party. Spend the rest of the night dancing your heart out as you celebrate with friends. Taco My Love, 400 49th St. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m-1 a.m. $15-45. 727-498-6646, eventbrite.com

Swingin’ the New Year Dance the night away at this live music and dancing celebration party. Enjoy the arrangements of snacks, drinks, a photo booth, live music, and dance performances. Anyone of any age may join and you can get some swing dance lessons the hour before the party, too! Don’t forget that it’s highly encouraged to wear new year and vintage attire. St. Petersburg Coliseum, 535 4th Ave N, St. Petersburg. 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. $40-50. newyearswing.com

NYE on the Pier Who doesn’t want musical entertainment, food, lawn

Here’s your list of things to do around South Pinellas as we end our time with 2022 and start the clock with 2023.

PIXABAY

games, and champagne for their last night of 2022? Enjoy live music from DJ Lawmaker on their main stage. Let the crazy LED lights, walls, and a giant disco ball brighten your night. Try some food from vendors such as Maggie on the Move, Main Street Boys, St. Pete Concessions – to name a few. Wait up for the fireworks at the end of the party, too! Spa Beach Park, 615 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. nyestpete.com

New Year Dance for a Cause Check out this New Year’s Eve party where you dance for a good cause. The night starts off with an open movement circle then intention setting for the new year. Later the dancing begins with local DJs bringing feelgood dance beats, then sacred fire and drumming performances. This party allows you to express yourself through movement, meditation, and dance. Bring your own booze, and no glass cups allowed for the fellow barefoot friends. Portions of the proceeds will go toward hurricane relief and a local animal rescue center called Compassion Kind. The Movement Sanctuary, 910 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 8 p.m.-3 a.m. $2530. eventbrite.com

Early Sunday, January 1

Fireworks by the Pier Start your new year with 20 minutes worth of brightly colored fireworks. Join the city of St. Petersburg as they present their annual fireworks show downtown. Spectators can enjoy the show at the St. Pete Pier as well as along the downtown waterfront parks since the fireworks will be launched from Vinoy Park.  600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. 12 a.m. stpetepier.org

Beach Fireworks Now what’s more Florida than celebrating the new year outside on the beach! Hang out with your friends and bring your family along to ring in the new year by watching the dazzling firework show brought to you by the city of Treasure Island. Gulf Front Park, 10400 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island. 12 a.m. 727-547-4575, mytreasureisland.org

•

•

• Over 40 years in business

•

www.tif to 919 Tyrone Blvd, St. Pete, FL 33710

KEY WEST, SO FL & MIAMI!

JAN 23-26, 2023, 4 DAY

Includes: 3-night stay at the Best Western Plus in Kendall, a lovely suburb of Miami. A day will be spent traveling to and touring in Key West. This is your day to see and do what you wish in Key West. The free Duval Loop Bus will help you get all around the Island. We will spend day three touring some of the Miami sights and enjoy a special “Millionaire Row” cruise on Biscayne Bay!

COST: $663* per person double or $898 single

AMELIA ISLAND/FERNANDINA BEACH

FEB 13-15, 2023, 3 DAY

Includes: 2 nights at the Hampton Inn Harbor Front with hot breakfast included each morning, Guided Historic tour, Beach Creek Boat Tour near Cumberland Island (might see the Wild Horses), quaint town, shopping and dining!

COST: $435* per person double or $579 single

AMAZING ATLANTA

FEB

19-22, 2023, 4 DAY

Includes: 7 meals (3B, 1L, 3D) 3 Nts. at Drury Inn in Atlanta area. A day at the Georgia Aquarium, The Road to Tara “Gone with the Wind” museum, The Center for Puppetry Arts with a fantastic Jim Henson Exhibit and the original puppets from the Classic “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”! The State Capitol, The Governor’s Mansion, a City Tour plus a few surprises!

COST: $699* per person double or $899 single

• JAN. 12, THURS. – BIG CAT HABITAT & GULF COAST SANCTUARY...$75

• JAN. 17, TUES. –“RIVERDANCE” at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 8:00 PM Show...$109

• JAN. 19, THURS. – LUNCH BUNCH with TODD! - MEL’S HOT DOGS...$59

• JAN. 20, FRI. – TECO MANATEE VIEWING CENTER & visit to IKEA...$49

• JAN. 21, SAT. –“JUST DESSERTS” -Off-Broadway Palm Dinner Theater...$139

• JAN. 22, SUN. –“THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY” -Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theater in Hudson, Great Food, Show & Cash Bar! Matinee!...$119

• JAN. 27, FRI. –“JOSEPH & the AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT”Broadway Palm Dinner Theater...$149

Arlene T. Samuel, 96, died Dec. 9, 2022. Born in Newark, New Jersey, she moved from Cranford, NJ to St. Petersburg in 1961 and to Gulfport in 1965. She was co-owner of the Hotel Ritz from 1962-1965. She was a local accountant; a past Mother Advisor for the Order of Rainbow for Girls; a member of the OES Nutley Chapter #121 in Nutley, NJ; Order of the Amaranth, Adoniram Court #22 in Lyndhurst, NJ; and Holiday Isles Elks Lodge #1912, Madeira Beach. She was treasurer for Gulfport Scout Hall for many years, having been active in both Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and was Boca Ciega Neighborhood Director for Girl Scouts in 1976-1978 and was a Lifetime Member of the Girl Scouts. She enjoyed ballroom dancing. She is survived by her children, Glenn (Debra) Samuel, Daryl Samuel (Ed Fitzgerald), Lynda Hull, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gulfport Little League, Inc., Boys Town, or CASA Domestic Violence Services.

Have Hope. This 10-week-old ball of fluff is waiting to meet her new humans at the South Pasadena Pet Supermarket (6892 Gulfport Blvd. S., #1000; 727-3454581).

Found a Peanut! This 7-year-old, 7-lb. chihuahua mix has a heart much larger than a peanut, and he’s waiting to share all the love in it with humans. If your home has other dogs, he’ll share his love with them, too!

Winky may just get his name from the state of his eyes when he arrived at Pet Pal. They were crusty, and he also had a belly full of parasites. After a lot of medical care — and a lot of TLC at his foster home — he’s ready to meet his next adventure with eyes wide open. There’s a scar on his right cornea, but he gets around just fine and honestly? It gives this 12-week-old tabby even more character.

All pets spayed, vaccinated, micro-chipped and dewormed. Pet Pal Animal Shelter, 405 22nd Ave. S., St. Pete. 727-328-7738; petpalanimalshelter.com.

Dogs, $200; cats, $40. All dogs must leave with a leash and escape-proof collar, and all cats must leave in a carrier.

Roxanne, we’ve loved you since we knew you. This year-old black mouth cur isn’t fancy, so you can call her Ro if you like. She’s outgoing, happy, and if your New Year resolution is to move more, this 5-pound girl is more than ready to help you keep it.

worship

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

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com JewishHeritage.net Rabbi@JewishHeritage.net

Good Shepherd Old Catholic Church

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

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

AN EPISCOPAL CONGREGATION

330 85th Avenue • St. Pete Beach

Reverend Omar Reyes Sundays 10:00am Holy Eucharist Wednesdays 11:00am Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing

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

727-360-8406 • www.StAlbanStPeteBeach.org

St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop 5124 Gulfport Ave S. 33707 Hours 10 AM to 2PM Wednesday to Saturday

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

Unitarian Universalist United Fellowship

During the pandemic join us Sundays on Zoom.

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

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-Pete-Beach AHCA #299995153

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS Organized, conscientious companion/maid. Paid by the job. Immaculate costs more. Medical license. Email vmorley908@gmail.com or call 863-201-3078.

PRIVATE DUTY NURSING CARE SERVICES

Qualified RN, 20+ years of experience. Offers care in comfort of patients, in their own home, or in a facility such as hospitals or nursing homes. Offers compassionate care, reliable, trustworthy. Excellent references. Please contact 727-709-0513.

CLEAN UP CLEAN UP CLEAN UP Handy helpers. 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. Locally St. Pete /Gulfport: 407-244-6045. James: 407-244-6045.

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL HANDYMAN

Bathrooms, kitchens. drywall, painting, custom high-end finishing. Any job undertaken, honest pricing. Insured, reliable. 347-973-0814.

SEMI-RETIRED CARPENTER At discount prices! Free estimates. Frame and finish work. Clearwater, Gulfport and Pinellas Park areas. Call the Door Doctor. Gus: 727644-6194.

Heating & Air Conditioning

Home

AMERICAN BUILDERS

GROUP LLC

Residential/Commercial. All phases of remodeling or renovations. Roofs, kitchens, baths, room additions, new construction, doors, windows, stone or concrete work, flooring, and much, much more. Free estimates. CCC 1333727 CGC 059964. 727-410-7323.

DARCY ROOFING LLC

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

Handy Person

IRRIGATION STAIN REMOVAL

Remove ugly rust-colored irrigation stains from vinyl fencing and most surfaces around your house or business, including signage. Free estimate and demonstration. Call/text 727-360-7070. ruststainremoval@icloud.com

Miscellaneous Service

NOTARY SERVICES - $10

The Gabber now provides Notary Services (in office only) at 2908-B Beach Blvd S., Gulfport. Our Notary Public is not an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.

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

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP MEETS THURSDAYS

Pasadena Community Church / Life Enrichment Building / Classroom 3c, 227 70th St. S., St. Petersburg, Fl 33707. Free, no registration, 7 p.m. Call 727-410-1569 for more information. Website: https://dbsatampabay.org

Moving / Hauling

ARRON’S HAULINGONE CALL HAULS IT ALL

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

Painting

ARNEY’S PAINTING INC.

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

SEASONS BEST PAINTING & CONTRACTING, LLC Interior/exterior painting and power washing services. Over 25 years of experience. 727-506-3677. Licensed/insured. Lic. #C-11623

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

LOOKING FOR FEMALE PT CAREGIVER(S) AGAIN

Seeking 1 or 2 female caregiver(s) beginning January. M-F 8:30-9:30 pm, personal care. SU 9-11 am, LPN/RN preferred. Experience preferred. Non-smoker strongly preferred. Call 404-822-4327. Current caregivers moving out of the area due to increasing rents.

Positions Wanted

DO YOU NEED A LIVE-IN CAREGIVER? I take the well-being of the elderly seriously. I'm licensed, have outstanding references, COVID-free. Call Lorraine: 727-410-2500.

Card of Thanks

POWERFUL PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Powerful Prayer To The 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. 4AA

I

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

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Right in Time Towing, LLC gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 1/15/2023 12:00 a.m. at 5304 1st Ave. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 pursuant to subsection 713.78 of Florida Statutes. Right In Time Towing, LLC reserves the right to accept or reject and and/or all bids. 1G11C5SL8FF104976 2015 Chevrolet Malibu 1LT NOTICE

is a notice that the

company Flow Wellness & Healing Arts LLC, is hereby doing business under the name of Flow Wellness.

Wanted

Real Estate For Rent

RESTAURANT FOR RENT Restaurant site, S. Pasadena. 1800/3200 sq.ft. mol. Incls. hood, grease trap, etc. 1210 Pasadena Ave. Call Horan Realty, Inc. 727-367-6361.

ST PETE S. APARTMENT RENTALS

Our units are in great condition. Freshly renovated with new appliances. We have studios, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, 3 bedroom, and single family home! Text or Call our main office at 205-537-0207. You can reach our leasing agent at 727-254-9258.

SHORT TERM RENTAL AVAILABLE Two Bedroom/One Bath for January - April 2023. Completely furnished. Central heat & air. Close to beaches and shopping. 727434-0424.

Vacation Rentals GULFPORT CONDO FOR RENT TOWN SHORES

One bedroom/one bath. Fully furnished. Million Dollar View. Beautiful grounds, four pools, exercise room, tennis, bocci, billiards, arts and crafts. Walk to bay beach and restaurants. Six month contract. Feb to August. $2,200 per month. Credit check required. 845-518-4017.

Real Estate Snapshots Here’s What Sold in

Gulfport Last Week

Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week

5940 Pelican Bay Plaza, #505 (Pasadena Yacht & Country Club)

This 1,476-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1983, listed for $524,900 and sold for $500,000.

5114 16th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This under-construction home will have 2,109 square feet, three bedrooms, and two-and-a-half baths. It listed for $429,900 and sold for $465,785.

5925 Shore Blvd. S., #207 (Town Shores)

This 1972 condo has two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,120 square feet. It listed for $365,000 and sold for $350,000.

3018 59th St. S., #204 (Town Shores)

1025 60th St. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, two-bath home listed and sold for for $489,900. It has 1,418 square feet and dates to 1950.

Built in 1971, this one-bedroom, one-bath condo has 1,060 square feet. It listed for $225,000 and sold for $220,000.

3018 59th St. S., #305 (Town Shores)

This 1971 condo has 1,060 square feet, one bedroom, and one bath. It listed for $225,000 and sold for $199,000.

CATHY SALUSTRI