Florida Makes Hurricane Prep More Affordable

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🌀 Tax Relief Year-RoundFlorida may soon eliminate sales tax on certain hurricane supplies permanentlyFlorida may soon eliminate sales tax on certain hurricane supplies permanentlyFlorida may soon eliminate sales tax on certain hurricane supplies permanentlyFlorida may soon eliminate sales tax on certain hurricane supplies permanently

Florida lawmakers have approved an ambitious $115 billion budget that—once signed by Gov. DeSantis—will eliminate sales tax on critical hurricane-prep items year-round, not just during short tax holidays.

What’s included?

• Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6‑volt, 9‑volt)

• Portable generators (qualified models)

• Waterproof tarps (≤ 1,000 ft²), ground anchors

• Gas/diesel cans (≤ 5 gallons)

These essentials—once taxed even outside hurricane season—will now be tax-free starting July 1 in Florida.

💡 Why It Matters for Southshore Families

1. Earlier Preparation
   As Hillsborough County homeowners like Irma Bosquez point out, having supplies on hand ahead of a storm season saves stress—and money.

2. Year-Round Savings
   Gone are the last-minute mad rushes and shortages during short-lived pre-storm tax holidays; now you can build your kit at your convenience.

3. Peace of Mind in a Volatile Year
   With the 2025 hurricane season forecast calling for 15–17 named storms, including 8–9 hurricanes, the stakes have never been higher.

✅ Bottom Line for Southshore

• Effective July 1, the sales tax on key hurricane essentials is gone—for good.

• No waiting for a brief “tax holiday.”

• A simple, effective way for families in Plant City, Brandon, and Ruskin to prep early and save.

Got questions about building a kit or what else to stock? We can break down dollar amounts, what materials to buy locally, or help you compare shops in Southshore.

Southshore Story Time

Ghosts of The Alafia

Part One

The River of Fire

They called it the “River of Fire” long before settlers arrived. On certain nights, the Alafia shimmered as if lit from below, casting an eerie glow on the trees that lined its banks. Scientists later chalked it up to phosphate, but the native tribes said it was something far older—something watching. Early homesteaders ignored the warnings. They built near the banks, drew water, fished by moonlight. And one by one, the stories started. Strange lights. Sudden illness. People disappearing for days, returning changed, or not returning at all.

Then came the cabin on Bell Creek and the fire that left no flames.

Things to do

What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week

🌀 "Cool? Maybe. Clean? That's the Question.

One of the sleekest, quietest window air conditioners on the market—Midea’s award-winning U‑shaped model—has just been recalled. About 1.7 million units in the U.S. (plus nearly 46,000 in Canada) are affected after reports of mold developing inside because water isn't draining properly.

Even more alarming, roughly 150+ units showed mold growth, and at least 17 users reported respiratory symptoms, including infections, coughing, and allergy-like reactions.

🏠 Why This Matters for Southshore Homes

• Hidden mold = hidden hazard
  Mold inside your AC can circulate spores throughout your home, triggering allergies and respiratory issues—especially for children, seniors, or anyone with asthma.

• Not just a visual issue
  These U‑shaped units make mold more visible, but hidden mold in any AC is more common than you think—professionals find it in most systems they clean.

• Quick action protects your health
  With high humidity and consistent heavy AC use here in Southshore, standing water builds up fast—and so does mold if it isn’t fixed.

🔍 What This Means for You Next

Southshore families rely on their AC year-round, so this recall is serious—but it's also manageable. By acting quickly, you can avoid flushing mold spores into your home. And if your unit is untouched, simple tilt and fan-running shifts might be enough—though long-term, a repair or refund is safest.

Go to www.MideaUrecall.expertinquiry.com to see if your unit is on the list.

AROUND TOWN

Featured Summer Camps & Training

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Until next time,

Keep It Local.