The Gabber: February 2, 2023

Digging Up Bones

By Amanda Hagood

When Gulfport resident Rick Cochrane spotted the enormous tooth, half submerged in the muddy bottom of a remote stream near Florida’s Peace River, he knew exactly what it was. He let out a boisterous cheer, which echoed eerily in the murky waters around him, drawing his diving partner, Henry Sadler, to his side. The two fanned the water around the tooth, revealing a row of miniature ivory mountains set in tea-colored bone: a mastodon tooth. A fabulous find, to be sure, even in a state that boasts some of the country’s richest Pleistocene fossil deposits.

But they didn’t know the half of it.

As they continued to excavate, they found an entire lower jaw (minus one tooth) and, returning to the spot the next day, both of the animal’s lower tusks. It was the discovery of a lifetime.

“We were freaking out!” Cochran remembers. “But then it crossed my mind: How are we going to get it out of here?”

Their truck was parked some three miles away.

That long, hard walk was just one of the hazards they’ve faced

in a long career of fossil hunting. Cochrane and Sadler, who teach lower school science at St. Pete’s Admiral Farragut Academy, started diving together while attending Eckerd College. In the past 10 years, they have faced their share

of dangerous currents, low light conditions, and even unfriendly fauna – “Henry was bitten by an alligator once,” Cochrane recalls –while in pursuit of the earth’s prehistoric treasures.

Giant continued on page 7

Rick Cochrane, Gulfport resident and science teacher at Admiral Farragut Academy, poses in front of the mastodon teeth and tusks he found near the Peace River.

RICK COCHRANE

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

Sunshine Law Confusion

I attended a forum for candidates for Gulfport City Council on Jan. 16. Several incumbent candidates attended the forum and one candidate indicated that the incumbents couldn’t state their positions on items that could come before the city council due to the Florida “Sunshine” laws. This is not correct. The Florida Attorney General publishes a “Government-in-the-Sunshine Manual” annually (myfloridalegal.com/ sun.nsf/sunmanual). The manual (2022 edition) part 1.C.3, Community forums sponsored by private organizations, states,

“A “Candidates’ Night” sponsored by a private organization at which candidates for public office, including several incumbent city council members, will speak about their political philosophies, trends and issues facing the city, is not subject to the Sunshine Law unless the council members discuss issues coming before the council among themselves”.

So, per the Attorney General, the Sunshine law only applies if the councilmembers meet among themselves. It does not apply to candidates speaking in public. I hope the incumbent city councilmembers will feel free to be more forthcoming with their positions in the upcoming public forum now that they know the Sunshine law does not apply.

-Bill Ackerman, Gulfport

The Gabber reached out to Gulfport City Attorney Andy Salzman and here’s what he told us: The quote from the manual is, indeed correct. He added that incumbents can give opinions or philosophies as long as they don’t say how they would vote. Salzman gave the example that an incumbent could say they believed the city should look into the viabilty of using the sheriff for police dispatch, but could not say, “I would (or would not) vote to get rid of dispatch.”

As there was another councilmember present at the aformentioned

meeting – the Ward I and Ward IV representatives – any incumbent present could have violated open government laws by discussing their position, Salzman said, adding “that’s what we try to avoid.”

RV Changes in Gulfport

Wow! With a change to ease the RV parking restrictions in neighborhoods, Gulfport wants to be an upscale Pinellas Park? Just because an RV as long as a semi costs $200,000 doesn’t mean it is entitled to sit outside my living room window because now my neighbors can park it alongside their driveway. Not the neighborhood I want to live in.

Councilman Ray (Ward III) believes “people are taking great responsibility and care of their property”? Councilman Ray needs to drive around Gulfport more. Maybe some are, but there are a lot who aren’t — and there’d be a lot more if we relaxed other codes. Besides, we have enough code enforcement issues already in Gulfport without unsightly RVs scattered in the front yards of homes.

Contrary to Councilman Ray’s “research”, all the towns I’ve lived in require boats, RVs, trailers, etc. to be behind the front lines of homes.

–Mike Cook, Gulfport

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

Container House Now Sits Idle, Unfinished No Clue When Construction Will Resume

By Monroe Roark

A year ago construction was beginning on what promised to be a unique residential offering in Gulfport. Now that project appears to have been halted somewhere in the middle and there are no signs of it resuming anytime soon.

A story in a December 2021 edition of The Gabber highlighted the plans for a three-story hybrid house built partly with shipping containers. In that story, Connie Wilhelm-Miller spoke glowingly of her plans for her property, as did engineer Buba Barrow regarding the future house’s design and features.

But the past few months have seen little if any building activity at the site, amid reports that the property owner and the builder may have had a falling out. The Gabber attempted to reach both Wilhelm-Miller and Barrow through the contact information they provided the city, but were unsuccessful.

Officials with the Gulfport Community Development Department reported that the last inspection of the property was in June and that permit expired Dec. 6. There have been no efforts by the developers to reach out to the city and get approval to continue the project.

Gulfport Vice Mayor Christine Brown, in whose ward the property is located, said she has not received any complaints about the property from adjacent residents.

“In talking to city staff, I learned that there is a dispute between the contractor and the property owners,” she told The Gabber. “The contractor is trying to exit the property. It is the responsibility of the property owners to keep the property secure and safe.”

But while neither of these parties has made themselves available to update the city or the neighbors on any progress – or lack of such – people who live nearby or drive down the alleys next to 49th Street and 29th Avenue South can see a mon-

strosity of a structure that is unfinished.

It sits on one of the many lots on that block which are zoned for duplexes, so a separate house in front – a wood structure with the same address – was to be connected to the new structure by a covered walkway, according to reports.

As residents in many Gulfport neighborhoods often do, the neighbors around the site have kept an eye on what is happening and shared their thoughts with each other while also talking with some members of the construction crew when possible. The project itself is a source of irritation for at least a few neighbors, and the sudden inactivity has increased that irritation.

“It is an incredible eyesore. I can’t believe Gulfport allowed this nonsense,” said one area resident. All of the neighbors hate it. They all hate it.”

No civil action between Barrow and Wilhelm-Miller is listed on the Pinellas County Clerk of Court’s website. A search of both names found nothing for Wilhelm-Miller, although Barrow is listed as a defendant in no less than 10 civil actions in the past decade.

Officials with the city told the Gabber that as of Jan. 23 there had been no new permitting activity on the property, and the owner would have to come back to complete that process before any construction could resume.

A code enforcement official said the city cut the grass on the property Jan. 11; the city removed weeds, trash, and debris on the construction site. A city contractor cleaned up the site, and the property owner will have to make good on that expense before any further progress can be made on permitting and construction.

The container house whose recent construction is now at a standstill.

MONROE ROARK

Tax Reduction Proposed for Qualifying Units Bipartisan State Bill Addresses Affordable Housing

By Monroe Roark

State Rep. Lindsay Cross (D-St. Petersburg) and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriquez (R-Doral) filed legislation

Jan. 18 in both chambers of the Florida Legislature allowing municipalities to reduce ad valorem taxes on affordable housing units in certain projects.

House Bill 229 and Senate Bill 220 add another tool to the arsenal of cities and counties that have struggled to meet housing demands, according to a statement from Rep. Cross’s office. Officials said few methods currently exist for local governments to shift existing housing supply into affordable units, but these bills will change that, creating incentives for operators of buildings with 50 or more units to reduce rents.

“Pinellas County is the most densely populated county in Florida. Every day, I hear from local residents who struggle to afford rent and find housing in a market with too much demand for too little supply,” said Cross. “This bill will open up the possibility for buildings in areas like Downtown St. Pete to become more affordable through a public-private partnership. While this bill only addresses one small piece of the housing puzzle, I am hopeful that it will

complement other housing solutions brought forward this session.”

“I am proud to be sponsoring this legislation with Rep. Cross,” said Rodriguez. “During a time when housing costs are high, this bill will provide relief to working families through an ad valorem tax exemption for property used to provide affordable housing.”

Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Justice applauded Cross for “looking at every opportunity to

increase availability of attainable housing in Pinellas. The more tools in our toolbox can only positively impact that endeavor.”

Brandi Gabbard, chair of St. Petersburg City Council, thanked Cross on behalf of her city’s residents “for making affordable housing one of her top priorities as a new legislator. When this bill was filed last session by Senator Rodriguez, the city was in full support. We are pioneers in utilizing the tools that the legislature gives us to combat our housing crisis and we will do so with this important tool as well! Looking forward to seeing it pass and getting signed into law.”

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch noted that the legislation prioritizing affordable housing aligns with one of the city’s pillars for progress: Housing Opportunities for All.

“We support efforts that allow cities like ours to mitigate the potential challenges that accompany the creation of affordable housing units,” he said. “We are grateful to Rep. Cross for identifying incentive measures that will make affordable housing a reality for property owners and residents alike. I’m proud to support this important bill and urge its consideration and passage.”

State Rep. Lindsay Cross.

PHOTO COURTESY OF OFFICE OF LINDSAY CROSS

Keyless System Improves Marina Security Will Allow Staff

to Monitor Who Comes and Goes

By Monroe Roark

The admittedly antiquated keyand-lock system at the Gulfport Marina is getting an update.

Council voted at its Jan. 17 regular meeting to approve the $52,500 purchase and installation of a keyless access system for the marina’s north and south basin. The vote was unanimous.

“This is switching from the original key lock that we’ve had for 100 years,” said City Manager Jim O’Reilly with only a small amount of sarcasm.

According to a city staff report, the marina had previously purchased and installed a WiFi system in the north and south basin, and that included proprietary software with additional models that would support keyless access in the future.

Officials called it “an ongoing effort to enhance security,” noting that the proposed keyless system on 13 gates and two restrooms would give staff the ability to monitor and control access to the marina basin.

Harbormaster Denis Frain told council that the system would allow tracking of individual use of the system, keeping an eye on who uses it and when.

“It will be on your phone or a key

fob. We can see who comes in and who comes out,” said Frain. “When a slip renter is through with their lease agreement, we can cancel their access to the marina. It will

be able to work specifically for that pier, so if you’re on Pier 5, you don’t have access to Pier 2, 3, 4 and so on.”

Frain said Gulfport is “kind of behind the times” in that most marinas already have a keyless access system. “We are at the time where it’s getting really popular.”

Councilmember Paul Ray agreed that the change is an excellent idea, noting specifically the difficulty that can arise when trying to collect keys from someone who is not paying rent and pointing out that the ability to electronically disable someone’s keyless access in a moment is the best way to go.

In an unrelated comment, Vice Mayor Christine Brown singled out and praised Frain while he stood at the podium for his length of service to the city – 39 years, as noted at the city’s recent annual employee appreciation luncheon.

Security at Gulfport Marina is being beefed up with the addition of a keyless access system.

MONROE ROARK

Mike Whitman, Agent “We

“We go where no one else will,” he quips.

Some of their finds are on display in the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville. Others can be found in their classroom, where students can examine mammoth leg bones and ribs, shark teeth, and the 7-inch claw of a giant sloth, among other fossils. Cochrane sees this prehistoric menagerie as a powerful way to jump start students’ curiosity about evolution and life science. He loves bringing them into “discovery mode”: studying, handling, and asking questions about these prehistoric clues to learn more about the deep history of their state.

“It’s so exciting when they see the connections,” he says. “These animals were Floridians, right here with us!”

The trip to Peace River country was meant to build on this enthusiasm, giving Cochrane and Sadler a chance to retrieve some gravel that the school’s new paleontology club could use to practice excavations on school grounds. While their unexpected discovery made it a bit difficult to stay on task – or rather, on tusk – this time around, students’ excitement about Florida’s prehistory continues to grow.

And so does Cochrane’s. He and Sadler are now involved in a University of Florida-sponsored survey looking to uncover paleontological and archaeological sites offshore. Thanks to rising sea levels, Florida’s Gulf coastline shifted about 100 miles to the east at the end of the Pleistocene period, leaving a lot of prehistoric remains submerged. “It’s the new frontier in paleontology,” Cochrane enthuses.

And then there’s Shark Week – the diving duo is set to appear on the popular Discovery Channel series this summer.

“We didn’t expect all this,” laughs Cochrane. “It’s awesome!”

And it just goes to show: with a little passion and persistence, and can end up doing something you really, really dig.

Cochrane’s mastodon jaw cleaned and reassembled. Soon it will be ready for young paleontologists to explore.

RICK COCHRANE

See the discovery on video!

No Early Voting in March Election

Pinellas Mail Voting Schedule Announced

By Monroe Roark

The office of Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections Julie Marcus released a ballot mailing schedule for upcoming elections, although officials emphasized that it is tentative.

Upcoming municipal elections scheduled for March 14 include Belleair Bluffs, Gulfport, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Kenneth City, Madeira Beach, Redington Shores, South Pasadena, St. Pete Beach, Tarpon Springs, and Treasure Island.

Officials tentatively set Jan. 28 as the date to mail ballots to absent military and overseas voters who have requested them. State law requires those ballots to be mailed at least 45 days prior to an election.

Ballots for domestic voters who have requested them are scheduled to be mailed Feb. 9, to meet the state requirement that they be sent between 40 and 33 days prior to the election.

The Supervisor of Elections office

defines absent military and overseas voters as “all active-duty military, their spouses and dependents currently absent from their Pinellas

County places of residence, and civilians who are U.S. citizens residing outside the United States.”

Domestic voters are defined as “legal residents of Pinellas County, including civilian voters and active-duty military members who vote in Pinellas County.”

Additional mail ballot requests will be fulfilled as received. To request a mail ballot, visit votepinellas.gov, call 727-464-VOTE (8683), or email mailballot@votepinellas.gov. The deadline to request that a ballot be mailed is Saturday, Mar. 4, at 5 p.m.

Mail ballots must be received at one of the Supervisor of Elections offices by 7 p.m. on Election Day, Mar. 14. Voters are advised to allow at least one week for their ballot to be returned by mail to the Supervisor of Elections office.

Mail ballots cannot be accepted at polling places on Election Day. Voters can surrender their mail ballot to a poll worker and vote  in person on Election Day.

There will be no early voting for these elections. According to the Supervisor of Elections office, “The municipalities have chosen not to conduct early voting for this election as provided in Florida Statute 101.657(1)(e).”

Workers count mail-in ballots in Pinellas County.

PINELLAS COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

Want to Serve Your City? St. Petersburg Needs You! Openings on

Boards and Committees

By Monroe Roark

St. Petersburg residents who want to serve their communities have several opportunities currently open on various boards and committees.

One new member is needed for the Development Review Commission (stpete.org/drc). According to city officials, this body acts as the Land Development Regulation Commission as required by law to review and evaluate proposed modifications to land development regulations, except in the case of certain historical and archaeological preservation matters.

The DRC acts as the Design Review Board and evaluates and acts on the development proposals within the city to ensure compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, zoning ordinance, and other appropriate regulations.

There are seven regular members and three alternate members on the DRC. Each is appointed by the mayor and confirmed by city council for a three-year term. The city prefers members with diverse economic, geographic, social, and professional representation and, where possible, includes members qualified and experienced in the fields of architecture, planning, landscape architecture, engineering, construction, and land use law and real estate.

The Consolidated Plan Application Review Committee (stpete.org/ cparc) is looking for up to six members. This committee is responsible for reviewing applications submitted

for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and makes recommendations to city council for approval of funding.

A new committee is appointed once annually to review applications for funding. The committee, which consists of city council members and private citizens, meets up to two times annually, in May.

The Civil Service Board (stpete. org/csb) has openings for two members and two alternate members. This quasi-judicial review board was created and made part of the city charter to provide classified employees with an economical and less formal opportunity to

have certain disciplinary actions reviewed by a board of lay persons. It acts as a fact-finding body that determines whether management has sufficient cause to discipline employees in cases involving termination, involuntary demotion, or suspension more than 15 calendar days.

The board is composed of five regular and three alternate members, all appointed by city council, who serve overlapping three-year terms. It then determines the frequency, day, and place of meetings to best serve its purpose. Notices of board meetings are published as required by law and meetings are open to the public.

Find applications and more information at the websites above.

St. Petersburg needs volunteer board members.

MONROE ROARK

Decision: Treasure Island One Contested Commission Race in the Beach Community

By Monroe Roark

Two seats on the Treasure Island City Commission were scheduled to be on the March 14 ballot, but only one of them is being contested. The two candidates for that seat responded to a questionnaire from The Gabber.

Ashley Dochinez is challenging incumbent Deborah Toth for the District 1 seat.

Dochinez has lived in Treasure Island with her husband for nearly three years. For the past nine and a half years she has worked for the City of South Pasadena as the building services coordinator in the Community Improvement Department.

“I chose to run because I genuinely enjoy helping people and want to be more involved in my community,” she stated. “I want Treasure Island to continue to be a place that residents enjoy living in and tourists want to continually visit.”

Treasure Island has one race for commission.

MONROE ROARK

This is her first time running for office. Along with her experience in local government, Dochinez believes her background in sustainability would allow her to help Treasure Island continue to improve in that regard. She has a master’s degree from the University of South Florida in global sustainability with a concentration on water.

“I want to be an active listener for the city’s residents and hear what their concerns/issues/suggestions are and be able to take them in front of the mayor and other commissioners and see if there are possible solutions we can come up with,” Dochinez said. “I’m extremely concerned about the erosion of our local beaches and want to help preserve them for not only us and future generations to be able to enjoy but to help maintain a healthy environment and ecosystem within our city and the surrounding areas.”

Toth is a 45-year resident of Treasure Island and an RN clinical coordinator with the Bay Pines VA

facility. She ran for the first time in 2017 “to promote sensible development,” speaking out against the taller buildings proposed in the city that were voted down by an 80-20 margin in a referendum.

Toth also listed sustainability as a focus of her agenda, to “preserve the quality of life that we know and love in our community,” she stated.

“I feel strongly that the city of Treasure Island needs to continue our pathway of sustainability to protect our area for future generations,” she said, citing several recent initiatives to protect the environment such as repairing city sewer lines, putting in a living shoreline behind Treasure Bay, and securing a $1.7 million grant for a new sewer pump facility.

Toth said she wants to see ADA accessibility in all of the city’s parks for mobility-challenged children as well as adults. She noted that she was among those who spearheaded the addition of the John Maroni Memorial Dog Park, which has become a popular gathering spot in

the Isle of Capri community, and that the city has recently been named a “pet-friendly community.”

Among her ongoing goals is a desire to increase employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and improve customer satisfaction. She wants to continue tuition reimbursement programs to assist employees in achieving their educational/career goals with the hope that they will stay with the city.

“I would be honored to be a driving force to ensure that we continue to grow but not lose the ambience of what we have,” she said. “We are truly the ‘Gem of the Beaches.’”

Winners for this race will be chosen solely by voters in their own district.

Saleene Partridge, the incumbent in District 3, is running unopposed for re-election and did not respond to our inquiry.

The Gabber reached out to each candidate at the email address provided on his or her qualifying documents at the city clerk’s office.

Decision: Madeira Beach Mayor Mayoral Race Underway, But Other Seats Unopposed

By Monroe Roark

Two candidates are running this spring for mayor of Madeira Beach, while each of the two open city commission seats has one unopposed candidate who qualified.

The Gabber submitted a questionnaire to each candidate at the email address provided on his or her qualifying documents at the city clerk’s office. Both mayoral candidates responded and their submissions are listed below in the order they were received.

Jim Rostek has been a permanent resident in the city since 2015 and is a retired fire captain and paramedic with 40 years combined experience in volunteer and career service. He listed “wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars, ineffective government

departments, and leadership that all need revitalization or refocusing” as reasons he was prompted to run.

Rostek has never held municipal elected office before, but he has been the president of the private shared dock association in Madeira Beach for three years.

“If elected, I would be the advocate for the protection and preservation of our beautiful beach town and its waterways,” he said. “I would promote a can-do attitude within city government. The uncontrolled and wasteful spending would be stopped.”

Noting the city’s organizational chart, Rostek noted that a paramount issue for him is who the city works for and that all decisions

should be based on that. Stormwater runoff is also a significant issue, he says, and he believes additional safeguards and enforcement should be a high priority.

Rostek wants “complete transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct by all city personnel at all times,” adding that “nothing else is acceptable.”

As part of his goal to make city’s permitting process more user friendly, Rostek wants the building department – through the city manager’s office – to develop and implement a walk-in/walk-out same-day permit program, subject to a few as-yet-undefined limitations. He also favors expansion of the fire department and has specific ideas on

Doug Andrews and Jim Rostek will face off for the Madeira Beach mayoral seat.

MONROE ROARK

development in the city.

“There can be no special favors; build within the confines of current laws and ordinances,” Rostek said. “I will ensure Madeira Beach remains the quaint beach town to the best of my abilities.”

Doug Andrews, the current District 3 Commissioner, has also entered the mayoral race (incumbent mayor John Hendricks did not qualify to run again). Andrews has lived in Madeira Beach for 11 years and is the owner of the 7-11 store on Gulf Boulevard in the city.

Andrews first ran for the city commission in 2019 “because the city was being terribly mismanaged from both the administrative and legislative sides,” he said. “I ran to initiate change, clean up the city, and help provide a clear path forward.”

Now concluding his second twoyear term, Andrews is also the city’s current vice mayor. He says that the two candidates in the mayoral race have clear distinctions as far as experience and the direction each one

wants to take the city.

“In the past four years I have been instrumental in helping this commission chart a new path since that disastrous election of 2017,” he said. “Even after dealing with a pandemic and beach closures, the city is in a demonstratively better position today than it was when I took office.”

As for experience and leadership, he says, “whether it was vice chair of the Civil Service Commission, Parks and Rec director, two-term District 3 Commissioner, or two stints as vice mayor, I have spent nearly a decade exhibiting leadership” in the city’s government.

“Experience matters,” Andrews said. “Only those who don’t have it will tell you otherwise.”

Eddie McGeehen is running unopposed to succeed Andrews in District 3. Anne-Marie Brooks is also unopposed in District 4, where incumbent Dave Hutson did not qualify to run again. Neither McGeehen nor Brooks responded to the Gabber’s questionnaire.

Sunsets, Seniors, and Sheepshead Quips and Quotes Heard In and Around Gulfport

By Chris Shablak

“There’s a lot of talent down here. My buddy played with James Taylor.”

–Ray Boucher, musician for the Pink Streets Duo playing at Neptunes

“Fantastic. Just gorgeous.” –Jean Corson, gazing at one of our pink sunsets from the grass behind the Gulfport Rec Center

“Everything. I go to an exercise class here every morning they have them.” –Donna Sebastian explaining what makes Gulfport’s Senior Center the best in the country

“The inside had all the readers. My husband handed over his oldest watch and the psychic began to spill

information.”  –Mary Becker talking about the Gulfport Mind Body Spirit Expo in November that will be back in April

“Maryland and Michigan.” –Jerry Rubin in front of the Gulfport Senior Center explaining which two U.S. states are split completely by large bodies of water

“You’ll see my name on the plaque out front, but more importantly, don’t forget Mary. She’s gonna be

100 years old in just a few months.” –Phillip Tortortello, one of Gulfport Senior Center donors talking about Mary Cocozella

“That’s my Harley.” –Dianne Bronson wearing her Harley Davidson shirt talking about her scooter going more than 10 MPH

“Human.” –Bert Harrison describing what the teeth on the sheepshead he caught looked like (they do look human)

Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough

What do all of these people have in common?

They suffer from peripheral neuropathy It's estimated that more than 20 million people in the US have peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately, this figure may be significantly higher as the disease is often misdiagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.

Dr. Rebecca Gibbons of Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine (AAIM) in St. Petersburg shares this belief. “I’ve been treating neuropathy in all its various forms, for a long time so often my patients come to me because of the symptoms, not because of a diagnosis. They read the testimonial of another patient or one of their friends or family members have been treated here and they say to themselves ‘hey, I feel the same thing.”

Fran B. of Treasure Island testified to this. “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious - I just kept thinking ‘I would give anything just to walk again for more than just a few feet without pain or my legs getting weak’. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed ”

"Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Fran’s They’ve been everywhere else They’ve been told there’s no hope. They’ve been told ‘it’s just part of getting older’.” shares Mandy, a Patient Care Coordinator at AAIM "They have been told it's just a part of getting older."

Those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy often face a very grim reality; Western medicine declares that there is no solution while most alternative therapies carry large price tags and offer little to no resolve. Which is w hy Dr. Gibbons and the staff at AAIM pride themselves on being ‘the last resort with the best results’.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves and this damage is commonly caused by lack of blood flow in the hands and feet A lack of blood flow results in a lack of nutrients; the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitating. Because neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorat e they will continue to do so until they are completely expired, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. “In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing,” shares Dr. Gibbons. “This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”

When it comes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you love are suffering with chro nic pain that presents as burning, tingling or ‘pins and needles’ or you’ve recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options

There is hope!

"My feet feel like they’re on fire.”

“Each step feels like I’m walking through wet paint.” “I live in constant fear that I could fall. “I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night."

Now Hiring

High Turnover, Staffing Shortages at Gulfport Police Means Less Water Patrol

By Mike Sunnucks

The Gulfport Police Department recently temporarily benched its police boat as it navigates staffing shortages.

GPD said in its weekly communi-

ty report on Jan. 13 that the boat had not been deployed that week.

“The vessel was not on the water this week, as certified officers have been working overtime to

cover patrol shifts due to staffing vacancies,” the department said.

The previous week, GPD’s boat was dispatched to assist with a “sunken vessel call.”

Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent insisted the boat and marine patrols are not in dry dock – but acknowledged local law enforcement is playing musical chairs with resources as it tries to fill several vacant positions.

“The boat has not been sidelined. The amount of patrol time varies each week depending on availability of trained personnel,” Vincent

Gulfport Police had to bench its marine patrol unit due to lack of officers. The department has eight sworn law enforcement officer openings.

GULFPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT

told The Gabber. GPD said in its Jan. 20 blotter report that the police boat was on the water for seven hours the previous week.

Vincent said they currently have seven openings for officer positions and, like police departments across the state and country, face challenges with the recruitment and retention.

“We currently have 26 of 33 sworn positions filled, and we have one officer who will be leaving on Jan. 20,” Vincent told The Gabber. “Obviously, this creates scheduling challenges, and almost everyone has been working overtime just to ensure that we have enough officers on hand to be able to respond to calls. This is the reason, for example, that we had to cancel the public safety night that we typically do in October. We just don’t have the people available to do much else right now besides answer calls.”

Gulfport police say that retention and recruitment of patrol officers and other frontline workers is a nation-wide issue.

There are myriad causes for the shortages, officials say, including anti-law-enforcement protests, greater external scrutiny of police conduct, and calls for budget cuts, combined with an aging workforce, and all the ramifications of the pandemic.

The Fraternal Order of Police reported as of September 2022 there had been 1,013 police deaths attributed to COVID-19 — including 82 in Florida and 63 in Georgia.

“During 2020-2021, resignations among police officers nationwide increased by 18% when compared to previous years. During the same period, retirements among officers increased by nearly 50%, while new officers hired decreased by 5%,” according to a report last year from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill School of Government.

Vanita Gupta, associate attorney general at the U.S. Department of Justice, said at a U.S. Conference of Mayors forum in Washington on Jan. 19 that officer staffing is part of a broader set of problems fac-

ing the future of law enforcement, including community engagement and inclusion and worries about officer safety.

“This is truly a crisis,” Gupta said of labor shortages and adjacent issues.

In Gulfport, Vincent said the local department also faces challenges.

“Turnover recently has been a significant issue for us. In the past 24 months, we have hired eight police officers, and we have had 14 resign,” Vincent said. “The majority of those who left have indicated that they are able to earn higher pay at neighboring agencies and that they are allowed to take their patrol cars home into surrounding counties where housing is less expensive.”

Gulfport PD’s starting pay is just under $62,580, however that includes a $9,694 signing bonus split between the city ($3,000) and state of Florida ($6,694) as part of a recruitment push launched by Gov. Ron DeSantis last year. The starting base salary for Gulfport officers is $54,316.84.

Starting salary for the Tampa Police Department is $65,977; starting pay for the St. Petersburg Police Department is $62,067; and in Clearwater, it’s $59,411 per year.

The SPPD also has plenty of officer openings.

“We are authorized to have 602 sworn officers, but at this time we have 565,” said SPPD spokesperson Yolanda Fernandez.

Vincent said his department

is moving forward with filling its vacant positions — but that takes time.

“We have four applicants in the final stages of screening, and once they are brought on board, it will take 16 weeks minimum to get them sufficiently trained to patrol on their own. If nobody else resigns in the meantime, that should put us in a good position to resume routine marine patrols,” the chief said.

Vincent said GPD currently has five officers certified to operate the police boat that patrols Boca Ciega Bay. One of the recent departures impacting GPD’s marine patrol was the resignation of Jonathan Ross, who had been with the department since 2014. Ross was part of GPD’s marine patrol but resigned last year after filing a federal American with Disabilities Act lawsuit against the agency in November 2020.

Get

Your Jam

On

Barbara’s Kitchen Soon Opens in Largo

By Cameron Healy

You may have seen Barbara’s Kitchen at various farmer’s markets (including the Gulfport Tuesday Market) and in multiple stores around Tampa Bay, but now you’ll see this small business flourish with the opening of a store in Largo.

Owners Sharon Young and Dwight Hudgins explained this store will include a certified kitchen, a section for intermediate and advanced charcuterie classes, and a retail area with products from Barbara’s Kitchen and The Dreaded Fisherman as well as their newest addition of Brie and Tiffany Tea. All of their products sold fall under their company of Dawes Distribution, which is named after Young’s grandfather.

They plan to soft launch sometime in February to continue with their charcuterie classes, then they will really open up everything in April.

“We are going to have a tasting bar in the store,” said Hudgins. “We’re going to always have little tasting samples going on in the store so people can get an idea of what everything tastes like.”

Young is a certified chef with an associate degree in culinary arts. In 2016, she created Barbara’s Kitchen,

where she makes all natural jam, jelly, marmalades, and salsas. Young dedicated the brand name after her mother, Barbara Dawes.

“We still handpick a lot of the stuff ourselves, like some of the fruits and vegetables. We still actually go out in the field,” Hudgins said.

However, The Dreaded Fisherman didn’t begin until 2021. Young explained that Hudgins is an “avid fisherman and a naturalist” which led them to creating the brand. Hudgins described these products of honey, syrup, and seasonings to be organic, medicinal, and health-conscious.

“When you say medicinal, it has CBD, but it’s not,” Young said. “It’s just things from the earth in terms of going back to old-world style of cooking.”

“They’re not genetically modified. They’re not hybridized. These are original heirloom seasonings,” Hudgins said.

With opening the Barbara’s Kitchen store, the two plan to launch their tea line named after their niec-

es, Brie and Tiffany. Young also excitedly mentioned to The Gabber that they are currently working with a mill to create their own cornbread and biscuit recipe. Another product they plan to sell are salad toppers, which would be a mix of oats, goji berries, and raisins you can throw on top of your salad.

“Barbara’s Kitchen is homey; its heartfelt. The Dreaded Fisherman is out in the woods, organic, and rustic. And Brie and Tiffany’s is going to be elegant and bougie,” Hudgins said.

Along with the store, Young, Hudgins, and their nephew Ace will continue participating in farmer’s markets to stay engaged with people and really connect with their customers. They have such creative and organic plans to share with everyone, so keep your eye out for their grand opening in Largo, and in Gulfport at the market.

Barbara’s Kitchen, 12508 Starkey Road, Largo. barbaraskitchenjams. com

Buoyed by the success at Gulfport and other Tampa Bay markets, Barbara’s Kitchen will open a full-time shop in Largo.

BARBARA’S KITCHEN

Art for a

Cause Impactful Art Exhibition at Gulfport’s DRV Gallery

By Cameron Healy

The DRV Gallery is an open space gallery and studio showcasing fine art of Tampa Bay artists. This gallery works to be a part of the community by hosting many incredible events and most recently held its Art for a Cause exhibit.

“I created this event as a way to give back to the community,” Gallery owner Deserie Valloreo said. “And as an opportunity to introduce DRV Gallery to a broad audience of visual artists and their supporters.”

From Jan. 19-Feb. 2, the gallery hosted art from 19 different artists and each piece sold supported a cause of the artist’s choosing. Many of the organizations chosen operate in the Tampa Bay area, such

as Friends of the Pelicans, Gulfport Food Forest, St. Pete Pride, Owl’s Nest Sanctuary, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the Trevor Project, and other nonprofits.

“I couldn’t pick one cause, so I thought I’ll just let the artist pick,” Valloreo told The Gabber.

The gallery collects a 35% commission from every sale made from this exhibit. With each sale, 10% of that commission goes to the artist’s chosen cause.

The DRV Gallery curated  this exhibit; Florida CraftArt’s Executive Director Katie Deits hand-picked every single art piece displayed out of a pool of those who applied.

Artist Judith Villavisanis’ piece, “Flora with Her Fauna,” sold prior to the event’s opening reception. This piece had a shadowbox effect and pictured a tree woman housing animals including a fox, an opossum, an owl, and other small creatures. Villavisanis chose Owl’s Nest Sanctuary as her nonprofit.

On the night of the opening reception for Art for a Cause, the Owl’s Nest Sanctuary came in with an owl and an opossum.

Later in the evening, the gallery held a few awards for the top three pieces in the exhibit. Deits awarded three artists for their creative doings.

On top with first place was artist Ava Ghayoumi’s piece entitled Peace is a Choice? which presents a ballerina on red canvas holding a red rose above her head with blood dripping down the middle. The chosen cause helps with equality and human rights for women in Iran.

“It’s very symbolic because she’s supporting women’s rights in Iran especially since she’s Iranian,” Valloreo explained.

Many of the pieces in this exhibit remain available for purchase. The DRV Gallery holds the closing reception for this exhibit on Feb. 2.

DRV Gallery 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S., Gulfport, Thurs.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Ava Ghayoumi’s Peace is a Choice? demonstrates the need to help woman receive equality and human rights.

DRV GALLERY

Top This

Build Your Own Burger at John’s Pass Grille

By Cameron Healy

John’s Pass Grille introduced their latest menu item, Build-a-Burger, on Jan. 1 to kick off the new year. This option allows customers to get creative with their preferred toppings on their burger. Most places don’t always allow you to mix and match burger toppings, which is why I went to see what these customized burgers were all about.

The menu displayed a list of protein toppings you can add to your burger such as “lobster, salmon, grouper, ham, pulled pork, swordfish, egg, chicken, shrimp, ribs, and sausage.” To my surprise, the menu only listed the protein toppings. I expected it to have a list of all the possible toppings: proteins, veggies, and sauces. I had to ask my server for the topping options.

I ordered bacon, mozzarella, crispy onion rings, and barbecue sauce atop of my burger, and a side of steak fries.

In a timely fashion, my meal came out on a light blue rectangular plate. On one side sat a pile of steak fries. The burger was topped with bacon, melted mozzarella cheese, with a small silver cup full of barbecue sauce in the middle. Then on the other side laid the toasted top bun decorated with mini onion rings.

My first bite tasted great. The crunchiness of the bacon and onion rings mixed perfectly with barbecue sauce and gooey mozzarella. I quickly noticed the burger was not super thick, but I appreciate that. With an unlimited amount of toppings, the patty shouldn’t be too big or you can’t taste every topping and the meat. But, alas, my burger was the perfect size: not too thin, not too thick.

The build-a-burger starts at $12.90, and depending on what top-

pings you choose, additional costs may vary. My subtotal came to $22.90 (bacon, $2; mozzarella, 50¢; barbecue sauce, 50¢, onion rings, $3.50; and steak fries, $3.50.)

I’ve had cheaper burgers with these toppings before, but overall the builda-burger tasted delicious.

I originally wanted to order a burger with bacon, ham, mozzarella, barbecue sauce, and a grilled sliced pineapple on top to make a Hawaiian burger, but they didn’t have the pineapple. My one suggestion would be to add this fruity topping — I’ve yet to find a place that will make that burger for me. My server said the wildest build-a-burger she experienced included peanut butter, marshmallows, and honey as the toppings. I don’t think a pineapple slice is an unreasonable request after that diabolic creation existed.

This build-a-burger concept is pretty cool; I wonder what other wacky creations customers have made. Every visit gives you a chance to try a burger you may not get to try anywhere else. I give the idea two big thumbs up. Please add a pineapple slice.

I’m begging you.

John’s Pass Grille, 111 Boardwalk Place W. Suite 203, Madeira Beach. 10

a.m.-10 p.m.

There’s such beauty in building your own burger and knowing everything is exactly what you want.

CAMERON HEALY

Solution

Maternally Yours

sudoku

Solution on page 27

gabber on vacation

Gabber fan Jude Bagatti took The Gabber on her journey Down Under for six weeks this past October and November, which is Australia’s springtime. Together, Jude and The Gabber hiked in Tasmania, snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, and marveled at Uluru (Ayers Rock). We also climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and visited a bunch of other cities.

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.

Art Markets, Live Music, and Play Productions

Thursday, February 2–

Sunday, February 5

Crimes of the Heart It’s the last week to check out American Stage’s most recent production, Crimes of the Heart. This show tells the story of three sisters trying to find freedom from the past “to seize the future.” This play won the 1981 Pulitzer Prize for drama and its dark humor through tough times. American Stage, 163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg. $45. 727-8237529, americanstage.org

Thursday, February 2

Madeira Beach Candidate Forum

Get to know the Madeira Beach mayoral candidates running for this upcoming election when the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce hosts a candidate forum. Hear from the candidates themselves as they introduce their goals and stances on issues in the community. Madeira Beach City Hall, 300 Municipal Dr., Madeira Beach. 5:30 p.m. 727-391-9951, madeirabeachfl.gov

Show Us Your Pet Exhibit Enjoy 2D and 3D art depicting Gulfport’s lovable pets, represented by three age groups. You may even see some of Gulfport’s Pet Mayor candidates for 2023 throughout the exhibit. Be sure to cast your vote for your favorite pet art on your way out. Gulfport

Arts Center, 2726 54th St. S., Gulfport. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. gulfporthistoricalsociety.wildapricot.org

History Speaker Series Want to learn more about Florida’s history? Join author James Abraham as he explores Florida’s voter suppression over the past 100 years. He will discuss moments in history such as the 1921 election riots in Ocoee and modern day incidents, as well as the prime figures who worked for equal access to the polls.  Hammock Hall, 3010 31st St. S., St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. 727-8937326, boydhillpreserve.com

Friday, February 3–Sunday, February 5

Attention Vintage Shoppers!  Visit one of Tampa Bay’s largest vintage markets this weekend. Vintage Marché opens for one full weekend each month displaying curated vintage items from all over the country. Want to beat the crowd? Get tickets for their first Friday dibs night online or pay at the door. 2906 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. Fri. 4 p.m.-8 p.m. $5-10, Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 727-289-1828, vintagemarche727.com

Friday, February 3

Creative Art Market Start your weekend with a night full of great art, food, and music. Check out the handmade pieces by Creative Clay Transition student artists and member artists from the Community Arts Program. Enjoy their ceramics, paintings, greeting cards, and more. Creative Clay, 1846 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 727825-0515, creativeclay.org

The History of LBJ Boost your knowledge on American history from historian David Busch as he continues his discussion on Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency. This history lesson examines LBJ’s efforts to win in Vietnam and how it became “Johnson’s War.” The discussion will also touch

on LBJ’s decision to not run for reelection. St. Pete Beach Public Library, 365 73rd Ave., St. Pete Beach. 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. 727-363-9238, stpetebeach.org

Seven Continents. One Night. Take a journey through seven continents at Jude Bagatti’s photography exhibit. Experience the world’s powerful places, spiritual spaces, and human and animal faces all captured by a camera lens. Catherine A. Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. 727-893-1070

Saturday, February 4

Softball With the Mayor Join the 52nd annual Mayor’s Softball Game. Watch the preliminary games of Kids & Kubs vs. TASCO Teens then later watch younger men and women play against the younger generations. This event will be collecting non-perishable foods for the St. Petersburg Free Clinic Food Bank. North Shore Park, 901 North Shore Dr., St. Petersburg. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 517420-6358

RaptorFest! Everyone’s favorite bird “show” swoops back into South Pinellas, with everything from birds of prey in free flight to bird walks. Ever had your photo taken with a beaky bird of prey? You can! All the raptors here can’t live safely in the wild, and the rangers at Boyd Hill make sure these birds live their best lives. RaptorFest raises more than $10,000 for the preserve every year. This annual fest draws flocks of kids, families, and grown-ups, so show up early! (Unless you have a disabled parking permit, park at Lake Vista Rec, 1401 62nd Ave. S.. and at Lakewood High, 1400 54th Ave. S. – shuttles will bring you to the park). Boyd Hill Nature Preserve,  1101 Country Club Way S., St. Pete. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. raptorfest.org, 727-893-7326.

The Beatles’ Abbey Road This is a remix you need to hear live. Join Jeans ‘N Classics as they perform the entire album of Abbey Road by The Beatles. Here’s the twist – it’s all classical music. You won’t want to miss these orchestrated versions

as well as their other great hits like Come Together, Here Comes the Sun, and many more. Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St. S., St. Petersburg. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $23-65. 727-892-3331, floridaorchestra.org

Sunday, February 5

It’s All About the Kids  Support young entrepreneurs every first Sunday of the month by attending Kids Market. All vendors are between the ages of 6 and 14 trying to progress their own business or start one. Stop by to be amazed with what they have to offer. Teaki Tavern, 530 49th St. S., St. Petersburg. 2 p.m.-6 p.m. 727-954-7588

Monday, February 6

Sip & Paint Valentine’s Edition Get into the spirit of love by painting your own Valentine’s Day teacup with the Foundations of Art’s sip and paint night. Guests will be able to take home their beautiful art as well as an individually wrapped charcuterie plate. Freshly poured wine, soft drinks, and bottled water will be available for registered guests. Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. $30. 727-893-1231, eventbrite.com

Mayoral Candidate Forum Meet the candidates running for mayor at St. Pete Beach’s candidate forum. This

forum gives voters the opportunity to hear candidate’s stances on community issues as well as the issues important to them. The League of Women Voters St. Petersburg Area plans to receive questions from residents prior to the event. St. Pete Beach City Hall, 155 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach. 6:30 p.m. 727-367-2735, stpetebeach.org

Thursday, February 9

The Secret of Wine Become a wine connoisseur with OLLI’s course on understanding wine and its secrets. The course will show you what makes certain wines more expensive or cheaper than others, how and why to properly taste test, and of course, how wine is made. Expand your knowledge on wine with information only an insider would know. Westminster Suncoast, 1095 Pinellas Point Dr. S., St. Petersburg. 1:15 p.m.-2:45 p.m. $25. 727-8647600, campusce.net

Support Local Bands Enjoy South Pasadena Band’s concert where they play a mixed variety of music for everyone. This hour-long concert welcomes all, so bring your friends and family. Donations are appreciated but not required (the musicians are all volunteers). South Pasadena City Hall, 7047 Sunset Dr. S., South Pasadena. 7:30 p.m. 727-3370442 , southpasadenaband.com

Tomorrow, you will wish you had done it today. your voice is your voTe

Photos by Cameron Healy

Michelle Morgan, St. Pete: “A card with something nice written in it.”

Karen and Charlie DuPont, Gulfport: “A card.”

Jo Olds, Gulfport: “Flowers.”

Marty Peters, Gulfport: “A card.”

worship

Friday 7PM

Beth-El Shalom

Messianic Congregation

ShalomAdventure.com

Good Shepherd Old

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

Sweet! Whose life isn’t made a bit sweeter with honey? No one, that’s who, which is why Honey will make yours even sweeter! This 8-month-old, 40-pound pup is extroverted, curious, and ready to play.

Not So Serious Despite his look, Bowman doesn’t take much seriously — except for cuddles! While he loves naps, he’s happy to wake up for pets. He’s a 3-year-old, 10-pound domestic shorthair tabby. Meet him at Pet Food Warehouse, 1830 61st Ave. N., St. Pete. 727-521-6191; petfoodstpete.com.

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

A Valentine treat featuring notable actors Susan Demers and Stu Sanford. Directed by Ron Zietz. “Love Letters” is a unique theater piece comprised of letters exchanged over a lifetime between two people who grew up together, went their separate ways, but continued to share confidences... physically apart, yet spiritually as close as true lovers can be. Evocative, touching, and funny

$20 online

$25 cash at door

ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR NEXT THURSDAY’S ISSUE IS FRIDAY BY 5 p.m.

CLASSIFIEDS

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

PROFESSIONAL LOCAL HANDYMAN

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

Gulfport Computer Repair

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

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 845866-3867. Responsible, reasonable, and ready!

HANDS N HEART IN HOME CARE LLC

Specialize in feeding, short errands, companionship, showers, and light housekeeping. Compassionate care to meet all your needs. Call 727-481-4722 or 727-623-2410. Email: handsandheart4you@yahoo.com

HOMEWATCH

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

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: 407-2446045. James: 407-244-6045.

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

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PATIOS, WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAY EXTENSIONS, & REPAIRS

Custom concrete patios, driveway extensions, custom steps, & all types of concrete repairs. Storage Building slabs. Over 35 years experience. Call Mark for a free estimate: 813-859-2023.

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

Lawn

James Fox Tree Service

Owner/Operator for over 25 years

“We make your trees feel beautiful”

727-220-0226

AnAffordableArborist@gmail.com

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

Trees Cleaned • Bobcat Services Stump Grinding • Hazardous Limb Removal Storm and Roof Protection • Insured 727-322-1849 or 727-215-8601

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

TREE SERVICE BY PAYLESS

LIC#0700008985 specializing

your shrubs and trees.

Servicing Gulfport, Pasadena and St Petersburg Areas. Contact JungleGirlTropicals@gmail.com Ph. 815-980-2759

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.

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.

HB HAULING SERVICES Hauling services available. We do everything from junk removal, demo, debris removal, estate clean out, and so much more. 12 . dump trailer. Mention The Gabber and get a discount. Call or text Kenny Baschuk at 727-793-5816 for free estimates.

SKIP’S MOVING & PICK-UP DELIVERY

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

PROFLO

727-902-7077

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

License #: 234757, 299994709

LIFE ENRICHMENT ASSISTANT (ACTIVITIES) NEEDED

Menorah Life is seeking a full-time Life Enrichment Assistant (Activities) for our Samson Nursing Center. Ideal candidate will possess two years experience with the elderly in a long-term care facility. Experience in activities preferred. Email resume to mbader@menorahlife.org

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

QUALITY MALE COMPANION

I am dependable, have 12+ years experience. Laundry, meals, errands/appointments. Have great driving record, and excellent references. 31 year Gulfport resident. Call Joseph: 727-564-0464.

Plumbing

Miscellaneous Service

Marine Repair

For Sale

METAL DETECTORS One (1) Whites XLTcost $809, used once. One (1) AAN Land & Sea, never used. My health forces the sale. $275 cash for both. Call 727-623-4429 or 727-266-9677.

FOR SALE 7 CUBIC FOOT CHEST FREEZER

Arctic King brand. 2 years old. Black with front temperature control. One basket included. $100.

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

Wanted

BUYING OLD GUITARS & OLD MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

I buy old guitars & old musical instruments. The older, the better. Any condition. Please call or text 937-767-2326.

Yard / Garage Sale

TOWN SHORES RUMMAGE, CRAFT, & BAKE SALE Saturday, Feb. 4, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Town Shores Club House (3210 59th St. S., Gulfport). Over 20 tables of great stu . Sponsored by Just Us Girls. No Early Birds.

THREE FAMILY YARD SALE Friday, Feb.3 & Sat. Feb., 4 8 a.m. - 1p.m. Household items, clothing, cra s, jewelry, gi items, linens, and miscellaneous..6028 21st Ave N., St. Pete. PLACE

5 Condo Flea Market

Furniture • Books • Toys

Electronics • Jewelry

Sporting Goods

Art • Household Goods

BAKE SALE!

Coffee & Doughnuts Available

Saturday, February 4th • 9am-noon 1888 Shore Drive • So. Pasadena (across from Palms Hospital)

Pass-a-Grille Beach

Community Church

THRIFT SHOP

17th Ave & Pass-a-Grille Way

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

Donations Welcome September thru May 15, 2023

NEW YORK SUMMER LAKE COTTAGE FOR RENT

Gulfport couple renting their lovely, vintage house in the mountains of Babcock Lake community on the NY & MA border. Family friendly beach and boating, Spectrum internet TV, everything you need. Sleeps 4 -6. For more information, call Lynda: 518461-7113. HUZZAH!

SHOW US YOUR PET!

The Gulfport Arts Center invites artists ages 6 and older to show us your cats, ferrets, turtles, hamsters, iguanas, rabbits, and any other critter you have for a pet! This juried show will have cash prizes.

Show Us Your Pet runs

Feb. 17 - Mar. 17

Entries due by Feb. 5

theGabber.com

For details and to enter: gulfporthistoricalsociety.org/gulfport-arts-center

Real Estate Snapshots Here’s What Sold in Gulfport & Along the Beaches Last Week

Other Gulfport Home Sales Last Week

6150 Gulfport Blvd. S., #416 (Stetson)

This two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 1973, has 1,160 square feet. It listed and sold for $419,000.

5514 12th Ave. S. (Tangerine)

This 892-square-foot home has two bedrooms and one bath. Built in 1951, this home listed and sold for $368,000.

3018 59th St. S., #115 (Town Shores)

This 1971 condo has 1,250 square feet, two bedrooms, and two baths. It listed and sold for $350,000.

5960 30th Ave. S., #307 (Town Shores)

This condo, built in 1971, has two bedrooms, two baths, and 1,120 square feet. It listed and sold for $279,000.

6301 8th Ave. S. (Stetson)

This three-bedroom, two-bath home, built in 1948, has 1,362 square feet. It listed for $420,000 and sold for 375,000.

Treasure Island Home Sales Last Week

12000 Gulf Blvd., #402S (Sunset Vistas)

This two-bedroom, two-bath condo, built in 2006, has 870 square feet. It listed for $750,000 and sold for $713,000.

They’re All ve Songs L

Annetta sings her way through each day, delighting everyone around her. This joyful Watermark associate often leads group singalongs – everything from gospel music to Bill Bailey and Bob Marley. And sometimes she sings for an audience of one. Annetta recalls a woman who had not communicated in years: “The family told me that when I sang to their mother, they saw the peace and comfort in her. They saw the blessing.”

No wonder residents clap when they see Annetta coming; they know she’ll sing for them. For 22 years, she’s shared her love each day through song.

We can’t guess how many hearts have been touched by Annetta’s love songs. We do know there are more every day.

L ove is Ageless

Call

– Annetta W., CNA, Naya caregiver, Watermark

“If I can make their life even one day better with a smile, a touch, a song … that could be my purpose.”