Local announcements

Ready to Get Your COVID Vaccine?

More COVID-19 vaccine appointments are opening up across Pinellas County, and the state of Florida recently lowered the age of eligibility for the vaccine to 50. Other eligible groups include health care personnel of any age who have direct contract with the public, as well as medically vulnerable residents with a physician-completed form, and K-12 teachers of any age. Residents are encouraged to create an account now at PatientPortalFL.com or call 844-770-8548 at any time to register. You will be contacted to schedule your appointment as appointments become available.

Watch the Watchers Virtually

Gulfport’s Neighborhood Watch has gone virtual, which means no matter where you are, you can participate via Facebook. The group meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Find the group on Facebook by searching for “Gulfport, FL Community Crime Watch.” The meetings and group offer Gulfport residents a monitored way to learn about burglaries, stolen vehicles and more. Call 727-893- 1022 or email Gulfport’s volunteer coordinator Jim Wright at jwright@ mygulfport.us if you want more information.

Donate to the Senior Center Pantry

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

Need a Little Help?

Pinellas County has a wealth of assistance information, including food pantry distribution sites, financial assistance, eviction/foreclosure assistance information, internet access help, pet care assistance and more. Text your zip code to 211 Tampa Bay Cares at 898211

or dial 211, 24 hours a day, 727-582- 7781, or visit covid19.pinellascounty.org/ where-to-get-help for more.

Get Rid of Electronics and Chemicals

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

Know When to Water

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