Live Your Best - a St. Petersburg Blog

GREEN A/C TIPS: Live Green to Save Green

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:53:00 +0000

1. Install an energy-efficient heat pump which collects heat from the air, water or ground outside the home and concentrates it for use inside. It also works as an air conditioner and can trim 30-40% off the electricity used.

2. Service central A/C unit twice a year. Good A/C servicing should include cleaning the coils, interior/exterior of the unit, testing the thermostat, and adding Freon if necessary. Regular servicing can reduce energy costs 20-30%.

3. Caulk, seal, and weather-strip all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside. Sealing your home reduces air escape from the interior of the home and reduces energy cost up to 30%.

4. Change A/C filters every three months. Keeping clean A/C filters improves the efficiency of an A/C unit by 15%.

5. Avoid placing lamps, televisions, and other heat generating electronics close to the A/C thermostat. The heat from appliances and electronics causes the thermostat to have a false reading.

6. Use fans to keep house cool, whenever possible. Evenly distribute them around the home to maximize air distribution.

7. Close curtains and blinds whenever you leave your home and whenever possible. This reduces air loss from older windows and the sun beating in the windows.

8. Repair holes in duct work. Holes in the duct reduce A/C efficiency, because the duct work sucks in hot air from the attic and transfers it to the return. The A/C works harder to cool the home, because it is sucking in the hot air from the interior of the home and the attic. Holes can be caused by rodents or by normal wear and tear. Duct work should be checked at least once a year, preferably during one of service inspections.

Restaurant Review: Chattaway

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:50:00 +0000

I moved to this area three years ago, and Chattaway is one of my favorite restaurants by far. If my boyfriend was not a St. Pete native, I may have never even known it existed. Located on the corner of 4^th St and 22^nd Ave South, it is tucked away behind overgrown trees and appears to be nothing more than a corner store. Those same overgrown trees provide cool shade to the comfortable outdoor dining area.

The atmosphere is casual and laid back with rows of picnic tables and cozy tables for two. There is an indoor dining area as well. Most nights there is live music provided in the courtyard for the diners to enjoy. The music selection varies with performances from Reggae, Jazz, and Acoustic bands or artists. The décor ranges from funky art to autographed pictures of various musicians and actors providing you with a lot to keep you entertained. Chattaway offers a parrot-head type bar area lined with T.V.’s and stools. This is a fresh twist on the usual sports bar environment.

While the atmosphere is easy going and comfortable, what is a great restaurant without great food? The Chattaway will not disappoint a hungry appetite. Their large, mouth-watering burgers are made fresh and topped with anything you like. Some say they are the “best burgers in St. Pete.” There is an assortment of menu items to choose from ranging fro Fish-n-chips and fresh green salads. They offer daily specials and I will tell you that Friday is stew day and it is delicious!

The prices are reasonable, two people can dine in or out for under $25.00. Take out is convenient, but the ambience and enchanting atmosphere will persuade you to kick back, relax, and enjoy the great food while you are there. If you are looking for casual dining and drinks with a taste of Florida, Chattaway is the perfect place! One last thing, be sure to bring cash because they do not accept Debit or Credit.

Chattaway
358 22^nd Ave S.
St. Petersburg, FL 33705

Upcoming St. Petersburg Events

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 15:52:00 +0000

Courtesy of Stpete.Org

Aug. 13 to 17 - 37th Annual Old Salt Loop Tournament and LOOP FEST.
Fishing throughout Tampa Bay. Over 30 teams of offshore fisherman compete in this Billfish tournament. Vinoy Park and the Vinoy boat docks.
Wed. tournament registration.
Thurs. 11 a.m., fishing tournament begins and boats leave the Vinoy docks.
Fri. fishing continues.
Sat. 8 a.m. Kids & Teen Fishing Tournament on the The Pier approach, pre-registration required. www.stpetepier.com or 727-821-6443. Kids & Teens Fishing Tournament weigh-in and award ceremony hosted by Mike Alscott at noon followed by the LOOP FEST, Family and music activities at Vinoy Park throughout the afternoon.
Sun. 11::30 a.m. LoopTournament weigh-in 1 to 3 p.m., throughout the afternoon LOOP FEST, boat "dock-walk", family fun, music and activities. www.oldsaltfishing.org or 727-497-1060.

Aug. 16 - FISH-ful Saturday - Volcanos.
The Pier Aquarium, 800 2nd Ave. N.E. noon to 2 p.m. www.pieraquarium.org or 727-895-7437.

Aug. 18 to Sept. 29 - Bay Area Idol - E.Y.U. Annual Talent Search Expo.
Venues throughout the Bay area. Eight open auditions for music and arts arena and is followed by semi-final contest to pick 25 best performers to compete at a final showcase. 727-321-0060.

Aug. 20 - American Bungalow Magazine Party.
Craftsman House, 2955 Central Ave. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Celebrate the release of American Bungalow's Fall 2008 issue. This special "Focus in Florida" issue features articles on the Craftsman House Gallery and the Historic Kenwood neighborhood. Music, food and fun. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com or 727-323-ARTS.

Aug. 22 - 4th Fridays in Grand Central.
Grand Central Business District, from 1st Ave. N. to 1st Ave. S. and from 19th St. to 31st St. N. 5 to 9 p.m. Shops, nightspots and businesses open late with specials, entertainment and more. A Florida Main Street Community. www.grandcentraldistrict.org or 727-328-7086.

Aug. 23 - The Gathering of Women.
Enoch Davis Center, 1118 18th Ave. S. Women's multicultural conference with speakers from around the community. Lunch provided. Advance registration suggested, $25. sister-sister@hotmail.com or 727-433-1352.

Upcoming St. Petersburg Events

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:42:00 +0000

July 23 - "Oldies But Goodies Dance"

The Pier, 800 2nd Ave. N.E. noon to 3 p.m.

July 23 Rays vs. Athletics

Tropicana Field.

July 23 to 26 - Banjos at The Pier

The Pier, 800 2nd Ave. N.E. Wed. 10 a.m., Thurs. and Fri. 11 a.m.

July 24 to 27 - Summer Camp Exhibit and Classic Film Series

The Studio at 620, 620 1st Ave. N. 727-895-6620.

July 25 - 4th Fridays in Grand Central

1st Ave. N. to 1st Ave. S. and from 19th St. to 31st St. N. 5 to 9 p.m.

July 31 - Nate Najar Jazz Event

The Studio at 620, 620 1st Ave. N.

August 1 - Jazz: The Art of Music presents Smooth Jazz Trio

The Museum of Fine Arts 255 Beach Dr. N.E.
St. Petersburg 6 - 9 p.m.

Aug. 2 and 3 - 33rd Annual Bird Expo

Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SunCoast Avian Society.

Bird show, competition and many vendors.

www.suncoastaviansociety.org or 727-470-3152.

Five Tips for Owners Renting Their Homes

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:39:00 +0000

Repair

Every month put aside money for repairs. Fifty dollars a month is a good start, but plan to gradually increase over a period of time. The goal is to make repairs without having to use your savings or other personal accounts. Remember: Most large scale repairs can be avoided with routine servicing and maintenance.

Lease

Use a fair lease that defines the procedure for early lease termination, maintenance repairs, late rent, and move out as well as rules for tenancy, tenant and owner responsibilities. An owner-biased lease turns away even the best of tenants.

Don’t Discriminate

Prospective tenants are protected under Fair Housing Law. Refusal to rent to someone based on religion, race, color, sex, handicap, familial status, and national origin is a violation of Fair Housing. Coercion, biased advertising, and inconsistently applied rental criteria violates Fair Housing as well. If you are renting a property, prepare a list of criteria for move in based on items such as criminal background, income, rental history, employment history, or credit. Apply the same criteria to each applicant.

Fair Market Value

The more affordable your home, the better chance you have of getting a stable, secure tenant who pays their rent on time and respects your property as their own home. Also, you will have a larger pool of applicants to choose from with an affordable rent payment.

Communicate

From the beginning, establish open and honest communication with your tenant. A strong rapport decreases likelihood of late payments, exacerbated maintenance issues, and property abandonment. It is important to maintain strong boundaries, so no one takes advantage of the other.

Top 10 Tips for Hurricane Preparation

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Stay informed by monitoring weather advisories on radio and television. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

If a hurricane watch is issued, prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments. Secure trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.

Secure your home by boarding over windows or putting up hurricane shutters. If you use boards, purchase precut one-half-inch outdoor plywood boards for each window of your home. Install anchors for the plywood and drill holes in the plywood ahead of time, so it can be installed quickly.

If evacuating, unplug all electrical devices. Shut off natural gas if local officials advise it and make sure to have a sufficient supply of batteries for battery-powered equipment.

5. Assemble a disaster supplies kit including the following items:

First-aid kit and any essential medications, canned food and can opener, at least three gallons of water per person, protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, and special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.

Identify ahead of time where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places, like a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.

Have multiple escape routes and know the proper government evacuation route.

Get important papers and special photos in order and secured in plastic or waterproof container. Identification is difficult and time-consuming to replace: so be sure to include social security cards, birth certificates, high school diplomas or GED certificates, titles or deeds to property.

Make sure you car's fuel tank is filled and your mobile phone is charged. Purchase a car charger for you cell phone in case electricity is not available after the hurricane.

Get as much cash as possible. Plan to use cash as main method of payment. Carry credit cards for back up.

Historic Uptown - A Thriving Community

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:00:00 +0000

Over the past few years, the Historic Uptown neighborhood of St. Petersburg Florida—comprised of the South Crescent Lake, Round Lake, and Bon Air neighborhoods—has become a vibrant community. For those looking for a small-town feel close to the urban downtown center, this might just be the right place to settle down.

Historic Uptown Neighborhood Association president Jonathan Chalker recently completed CONA Leadership, an annual program sponsored by the Council of Neighborhood Association. Along with an active, involved group of association officers and board members, he’s helped foster a community focused on crime prevention, beautification, and teamwork.

Many homes in the Historic Uptown district were built during or before the 1920’s. According to the Historic Uptown Neighborhood Association’s website, the architectural styles found in the district include: Frame and Masonry Vernacular, Craftsman Bungalow, Minimal Traditional, Tudor Revival, Mediterranean Revival, Colonial Revival, Prairie, Mission, Classical Revival, Dutch Colonial Revival, American Foursquare, Art Moderne, and Minimal Traditional. The variety of historic homes, multitude of brick streets, and unique hexagon sidewalks help give the Historic Uptown neighborhoods a quaint, small town charm.

But if you ask the neighbors, the real character comes from the sense of kinship and active community.

“I have never lived in a community where so many people from so many different walks of life get along so well - and get together so often!” says resident Mari Gillogy. “Before I moved here, I couldn't wait to move out of Florida and into a small downtown community up north where everyone was more friendly and happy to get involved in events that really matter locally. Now, I don't have to - everything I wanted is right here!”

Garage sales, porch parties, street bowling, potluck dinners, and group clean-ups are just some of the activities that bring the residents of Historic Uptown out to gather and work together. After a recent community garage sale, the Neighborhood Associated donated a portion of proceeds to the local Red Cross chapter.

“In Historic Uptown, we're all activists for the same cause,” Gillogy says. “Making sure our neighborhood is the best place in town to put down some roots.”

The residents and their active organization have revitalized the heart and soul of the Historic Uptown Neighborhood. You can see it as properties are renovated, yards are spruced up, the arts and culture are embraced, and evenings become time to stroll or bike to meet your fellow neighbors.

For more information, please visit the Historic Uptown Neighborhood Association's website.

Upcoming St. Petersburg Events

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:41:00 +0000

July 11 – 2 Live Crew

The Tamiami Bar @ Jannus Landing Doors @ 8 p.m. / Show @ 9 p.m., Ticket Cost: $14.99 ADV / $20.00 DOS

July 11 - The Vans Warped Tour 2008

Vinoy Park Gates open @ 10 a.m. / Shows starts at Noon, Ticket Cost: General Admission $31.99

July 12 - Gallery Walk.

Throughout downtown, 5:30 p.m. www.stpetearts.org or 727-821-6767. Dine-A-Round and Enjoy the Arts, 5 to 10 p.m. www.loopertrolley.com.

July 17 - 35th Anniversary Sunrise Sale

Throughout downtown St. Petersburg. 6:43 a.m. Look for the yellow banners on stores offering deep discounted specials during this once a year pj party. Music, food samplings, great sales and shuttle bus service will be available. Downtown Business Association. http://www.stpetedowntownbiz.com

July 18 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays Vs Toronto Blue Jays
7:10 pm, Tropicana Field

July 19 - Boat Building - FISH-ful Saturday
The Pier Aquarium, 800 2nd Ave. N.E. noon to 2 p.m. http://www.pieraquarium.org or 727-895-7437.

July 19 - St Petersburg Craft Beer Expo
1:00-9:00 pm, Mahaffey Theater. Beer seminars, cheese and beer garden, and 150+ beer samples. Tickets available through Ticketmaster.

July 19 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays Vs Toronto Blue Jays
6:10 pm, Tropicana Field

July 20 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays Vs Toronto Blue Jays

1:40 pm, Tropicana Field

Mike's July Fishing Report - Hit the Beach!

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:50:00 +0000

Now is the time to hit the beaches for some big Snook, Trout and Redfish. During the hot summer months, many game fish seek refuge from the hot waters of the bays and estuaries by heading out the inlets and passes and into the Gulf. Water temperatures are typically 2-3 degrees cooler in the Gulf than in the Intercoastal Waterway, which may not sound like much, but it makes a huge difference. When the water heats up, it becomes oxygen-depleted, and fish breathe oxygen just like you and I. Being cold-blooded, a fish’s metabolism is dependant on water temperature and the amount of oxygen it can get across its gills.

The easiest and most productive way to catch these exciting game fish is also the cheapest, since you don’t even need a boat!! Go to your local bait shop or Wal-Mart, and pick up a few packs of D.O.A. Shrimp in “Nite Glow” and “Root Beer” colors. Use medium class spinning gear, such as a 6’ 6” to 7’ 6” rod. Use 20 pound line, and a 15-30 pound Flourocarbon Leader. If you do not know all the fancy fishing knots, you can also pick up some small swivels at the bait shop. The best is to learn a good knot to tie your main line to your leader, as sometimes even the smallest swivel can spook the fish and cause them not to bite. Use about 3 feet of leader, and tie the lure directly to the end w/ out using any weights, you want the lure to have a natural action as it “swims” through the water.

If you are very quiet and very stealthy, you should be able to see shadows in the surf, usually just a few yards out fro the beach. Sometimes it will be an obvious school of fish, swimming and moving around. Other times it will just look like a dark spot under the water, either way, it’s usually a Snook. Basic rule of thumb is to cast your bait at anything that looks out of the ordinary. Sometimes the waves will push blobs of seagrasses up against the beach, and those usually hold good amounts of fish.

When throwing any lure, a slow retrieve usually works best, just reel up the lure slowly and give it a small twitch every once in a while. People who do not want to use lures, or who prefer live bait, should use either smaller pinfish or scaled sardines for bait. You will usually see schools of bait fish just offshore, usually it looks like a spot on top of the water with weird ripples, and usually there will be Pelicans and Sea Gulls diving into these bait pods to get an easy snack. You can throw a Sabiki rig at them, or if you have a cast net, you can sometimes net bait right off of shore. Any little critter that swims will give you a good shot at one of these fish.

Just a reminder—Snook season is closed and you cannot keep any of these fish, no matter what size. Redfish are always in season, however you may only keep one per person, and it must be between 18 and 27 inches. None smaller, none bigger. Trout can be kept also, and make a great dinner. Minimum size is 15 inches, max is 20. You can keep up to 4 trout, and one may be larger than 20 inches. The best is always to snap a quick picture and release these bigger fish though, they are the females that are responsible for breeding so we can keep catching fish in the years to come!

Good luck! Now get out there and catch ‘em up!

Mike Czipri is a Tampa Bay Native who spends just about every moment of his free time fishing. He picked up his first rod and reel as soon as he started walking. He's also AB Hunt Property's Solutions' superstar leasing agent. Contact him any time at mczipri@abhunt.com.

PRESS RELEASE

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 15:59:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:
A. Hunt

AB Hunt Property Solutions
Tel: (727) 894-0604
Fax: (727) 894-0504
abhomes@abhuntpm.com
http://abhunthomes.com

AB Hunt offers free foreclosure workout services to local homeowners.

ST. PETERSBURG, FL, July 1, 2008 – With foreclosure rates at an all time high, homeowners are becoming increasingly susceptible to scams and fraudulent services. In response to public need, AB Hunt Property Solutions offers free one-on-one clinics to homeowners and investors seeking assistance with a default and/or foreclosure. The foreclosure workout clinics are a free public service.

“We believe any money you have needs to go to resolution,” A. Hunt said, explaining that services involving additional fees, contracts, home repair or signing away a title should be avoided whenever possible and are often the signs of a scam. “People need to be informed,” she added, advising that government agencies and non-profits are usually the safest bet when seeking assistance with mortgage default and foreclosure.

Owners seeking assistance do not have to be current AB Hunt clients to take advantage of the free service. AB Hunt also offers follow-up support, additional information online, blog articles, and advice regarding fraud and scams.

A quick phone call secures an appointment to receive personal, customized counseling with a qualified workout specialist. The mortgage lender is contacted during the first appointment. If owners are able cooperate actively and gather appropriate documents in a timely fashion, resolution can occur within two to four weeks. Successful negotiation with the mortgage lender often allows homeowners to avoid the lender taking possession of the property.

With the appropriate steps taken, properties do not have to fall into default and foreclosure. The specialists available at AB Hunt’s clinics have experience working with lenders and can quickly and effectively get the appropriate parties on the phone. With this sort of assistance, homeowners have the opportunity to negotiate a solution that works for all parties involved.

None of the foreclosure and default workout services require a fee or contract. AB Hunt Property Solutions benefits from word of mouth exposure that generates new clients and helps spread the word regarding AB Hunt’s rental properties, property services, and services for homeowners.

About AB Hunt Property Solutions:

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, AB Hunt Property Solutions services the property needs of individuals and the community. AB Hunt Property Solutions prides itself with staying in touch with the character and needs of St. Petersburg.

Homemade Default and Foreclosure Solutions

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:15:00 +0000

As more people lose their homes to foreclosure, some are exploiting loop holes in the existing mortgage solutions. Residents in Tampa Bay have begun to sell their homes to friends or family via the short sale process. After the home is purchased, residents stay in their homes as renters with a payment reduced by 30-50%. Hopefully, mortgage lenders will begin to take notes from these residents and offer a loan assistance program that re-negotiates the property price and interest rate according to the current market.

For information, please read: http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/realestate/article633951.ece

Tampa Bay Shadow Market: Overnight Landlords Inspire Healthy Market Competition

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:47:00 +0000

As apartment occupant rates have fallen 1.6% in the first quarter of 2008, so have the rental prices. The shadow market--sellers renting their property instead of selling--has begun to restore affordability to the Tampa-St. Petersburg rental market.

From 2005-2007, the Bay Areas 10,000 plus condo conversions led to apartment renters being confronted with higher prices and limited available units. As the cost of living went up, employment wages remained the same.

Many did not prosper during the “housing boom.” Now, with the growth of the shadow market rental prices have begun to drop in the Bay Area as the competition in the market continues to increase. With this healthy competition have come problems with individuals turning into “overnight landlords.” Many property managers and realtors believe the market will get better as these landlords leave the market.

Rather than pushing “overnight landlords” out of the market, property services need to be created to support new landlords. “Overnight landlords” are not competition for the property management industry. In fact, these new landlords introduce the real estate industry to the needs of the independent property owner post the “housing boom.” As the real estate industry begins to respond to these owners’ current needs, the competition within the management, leasing industry will decrease and the market will stabilize.

In the meantime, healthy rental market competition increases housing quality and decreases rental prices for many Bay Area renters.

Downtown Neighborhood Association Board Votes to “Adopt” Williams Park

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:20:00 +0000

Williams Park, the City of St. Petersburg’s central downtown park and green space, is an orphan no longer. The Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) has voted to join the city’s Adopt-a-Park program by adopting Williams Park, located between Third and Fourth Streets North and First and Second Avenues North.

City staff designed the Adopt-a-Park program to augment the regular cleanup and maintenance performed by city workers and to engage neighborhood residents in projects that benefit their own neighborhoods by helping keep the community “clean and green.”

Like all neighborhood associations, DNA represents the interests of homeowners and residents. However, the Association also recognizes a special obligation to work toward keeping the downtown neighborhood as an attractive, safe place and active cultural, educational, business, and social center for all city residents and visitors.

Williams Park was selected in part because it is virtually at the center of the DNA’s neighborhood boundaries, Tampa Bay on the east, Martin Luther King, Jr., Street on the west, and 5^th Avenues North and South, extending down 4^th Street South to 11^th Avenue South, encompassing the USF campus.

Williams Park is also considered the city’s first park. Called City Park at its founding in 1888, it was later renamed for one of St. Petersburg’s founders. The first bandstand was built there in 1894.

Partnerships, Volunteers Sought

The Association will work to develop partnerships with other organizations and businesses, especially those whose buildings face the park. Among those that have built along Third and Fourth Streets or are in process of building are Progress Energy, the American Stage, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral. St. Petersburg College is nearby on Second Avenue.

Because Williams Park is the City’s central downtown park and major public transportation hub and is used by many residents, DNA will need many volunteers to help with flower plantings, cleanups, and to raise funds for buying needed plants and equipment. “The combination of partnerships and dedicated volunteers might eventually lead to formation of a ‘Friends of Williams Park’ group,” says DNA president Marilyn Olsen.

To volunteer to take part in the Williams Park project, email molsen@mailq.us Signups will also be possible at DNA’s July 10 meeting at Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth Street North, beginning at 7 p.m. That meeting, which is free, will feature Tim Garling, new director of the Pinellas Transit Authority (PSTA), whose buses use the perimeter of Williams Park as a major downtown depot.

For more information on the Downtown Neighborhood Association, visit www.stpetedna.org.

New Pinellas transportation chief Tim Garling to speak on July 10

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:34:00 +0000

The public is invited to meet and hear Tim Garling, new director of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), at the Downtown Neighborhood Association’s (DNA) General Meeting on Thursday, July 10, 2008, at Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth Street North, St. Petersburg, beginning at 7 p.m. The meeting is free, and parking is available at the Center.

Prior to moving to a downtown home in St. Petersburg, Garling directed the transit agency in Portland, Oregon. Called TriMet, the Portland transportation system has been highly acclaimed around the nation as a model for other cities. In addition to bus service, TriMet includes a 33-mile long light-rail operation for which Garling was manager prior to directing both bus and rail operations. Earlier in his career, he was with the New York City Transit Authority where he managed operations for a subway line.

Locally and nationally, expensive fuel costs have led to increases in ridership for public transit systems. Simultaneous budget cuts for virtually all government agencies, such as PSTA, mean that Garling will be faced with balancing higher demand for bus service with a decreasing supply of that service.

In addition to discussing ways to meet that challenge, Garling will comment on bus rapid transit (BRT), how PSTA fits into the regional transportation plan, and, of particular importance to the environment of downtown St. Petersburg, long range plans for removing the bus waiting area from Williams Park. Following his formal presentation, audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions.

DNA president Marilyn Olsen also plans to ask for a report from the DNA committee focused on the Tampa Bay Rays proposal for a new waterfront stadium on the site of Al Lang Field. The committee is chaired by DNA board member and attorney Peter Belmont.

The Downtown Neighborhood Association is bounded by Tampa Bay on the east, Martin Luther King, Jr., Street on the west, and 5^th Avenues North and South, extending down 4^th Street South to 11^th Avenue South, encompassing the USF campus and nearby residences.

Like all neighborhood associations, DNA represents the interests of neighborhood homeowners and residents. DNA also recognizes a special obligation to work toward keeping downtown as an attractive, safe place and active cultural, educational, business, and social center for all city residents and visitors.

DNA dues are $15 per year and include a newsletter sent to members, a regularly updated online newsletter, opportunities to work on committees dedicated to improving life in downtown St. Petersburg, and four general membership meetings per year with speakers on topics of interest featured at each.

For more information on the Downtown Neighborhood Association, please visit www.stpetedna.org.

Upcoming St. Petersburg Events

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:53:00 +0000

June 19 - Juneteenth Candlelight Vigil
Spa Beach. 8 pm. Vigil in observance of the African American Emancipation Day. www.juneteenth-stpete.org or 727-743-6792.

June 21 - Juneteenth Family Festival
Campbell Park. 10 am to 6 pm. A celebration to commemorate African American Freedom. Music, comedy, career fair, drum making, head wrapping, community service information, arts and crafts vendors and food. www.juneteenth-stpete.org or 727-328-7086.

June 27 - 4th Fridays in Grand Central
Grand Central Business District, from 1st Ave. N to 1st Ave S and from 19th St. to 31st St. N. 5 pm to 9 pm. Shops, nightspots, and businesses open late with specials, entertainment and more. A Florida Main Street Community. Free. www.grandcentraldistrict.org. 727-328-7086

June 28 - St. Pete Pride
Grand Central District, Central Ave. between 21st and 28th St. 10 am to 4 pm. Promenade and street festival. Music, car, and motorcycle show, vendors, arts and crafts, films, community agencies and much more. www.stpetepride.com or 727-388-9435.

July 2-5 - Miss Florida Outstanding Teen and Miss Florida Pageant
Progress Center for the Arts' Mahaffey Theater, 1st St. S. Wed. at 7:30 pm preliminary competition. Thurs. at 7:30 pm preliminary competition. Friday at 2 pm preliminary competition. Saturday at 7 pm Miss Florida Outstanding Teen Finals and at 8 pm Miss Florida Finals. www.missflorida.org.

PRESS RELEASE

noreply@blogger.com (AB Hunt Property Solutions) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:34:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT: A. Hunt
AB Hunt Property Solutions
Tel: (727) 894-0604
Fax: 727) 894-0504
abhomes@abhuntpm.com
http://abhunthomes.com

AB Hunt Homes evicts traditional property management fees.

ST. PETERSBURG, FL, May 30, 2008 – Responding to the demands of the housing market and community housing trends, AB Hunt Property Solutions recently launched AB Hunt Homes, a program providing homeowners with a dependable, cost-free alternative to traditional property management.

After establishing a successful property management agency, business owner A. Hunt found that monthly fees and strict contracts did very little to truly service homeowners, their tenants or the community. Disappointed to see homeowners losing hard-earned income to secure their investments, she revised her business model and eliminated property management fees.

“In 2008, property owners should not pay for their real estate investment to be managed. Rather management fees should be built into the cost and business structure like other financial investments,” said A. Hunt.

AB Hunt Homes immediately found that the renter’s and owner’s quality of life increased with the revised business model. AB Hunt Homes rents directly from the owner with a secure two-year lease before placing and managing qualified occupants. By acting as a professional tenant, AB Hunt Homes assumes all legal accountability and responsibility for the upkeep of the home. Owners receive guaranteed rent no later than the third of each month. Lawn maintenance, pest control and pool care are handled by AB Hunt Homes at no additional cost.

Since breaking out of the traditional property management model, AB Hunt Property Solutions has focused more on the needs of St. Petersburg’s diverse rental population. AB Hunt Homes offers client renters the benefits and conveniences of large apartment complexes with the comforts of a single family home. AB Hunt Homes also develops personal solutions and offers flexible lease terms for a wide base of client renters including service professionals, college students, and seasonal business travelers. In exchange for enhanced service, benefits, and conveniences, client renters are held to a high standard.

“Regardless of the economic or political landscape, everyone deserves a home and security without having to pay unnecessary extra costs,” said Hunt.

About AB Hunt Property Solutions:

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, AB Hunt Property Solutions services the property needs of individuals and the community. AB Hunt Property Solutions prides itself with staying in touch with the character and needs of St. Petersburg.

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