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Protection Team News A NEW SEASON APPROACHES
Fingers Crossed for a Quiet Storm VOL 17, ISSUE 4
ARE YOU READY?
Season Page 1
The first quarter of the year has flown by, and now we’re less than 90 days away from the start of another hurricane season. Where does the time go? Many of our clients are still dealing with the lingering effects of last year’s back-to-back hurricanes, and yet, here we are again, preparing for another storm season. Early forecasts predict another active year, and as I remind everyone annually — it only takes one storm to change everything. Now is the time to get serious about preparation. If you haven’t reviewed your insurance coverage yet, don’t wait. Flood insurance is a key part of storm readiness! Remember, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period for new policies unless required for a loan closing. If you’re unsure about your coverage, call our office now so we can help you get ahead of the season. The Florida Legislature is still in session, but there hasn’t been much movement on insurance reform. One notable development is the recently announced hearings into insurance carriers’ financial dealings following investigative WHAT’S HAPPENING IN FLORIDA INSURANCE?
ownership might keep the team in Tampa Bay. I’ve never been a big fan of Stuart Sternberg, and his latest decision solidifies that feeling. Hopefully, the Rays will have a strong season despite the skyrocketing ticket prices, which I suspect will hurt attendance. The Lightning bring back a fan-favorite. What a shocker — Yanni Gourde is back! The Lightning pulled off a last-minute trade for him. While I love seeing him return, this move came at a steep price in draft picks. It’ll be worth it if the Bolts make a deep playoff run. If not … well, let’s just say it could be an expensive gamble. Here’s hoping they can stay healthy and make a serious push for the Cup! Until next month ...
A Naval Legend Lives On Page 2 Understanding the Benefits of Motorhome Insurance Page 2 Family Road Trip Hacks You’ll Love Page 3 Mastering the Art of Nature Photography Page 3
Standing tall with the sights of North Carolina behind me.
reports from the Tampa Bay Times and Miami Herald . Will this lead to significant savings for policyholders? Probably not in the short term — but there’s hope that rate increases could slow down if we have a quiet storm season. Fingers crossed. TAMPA BAY SPORTS UPDATES: Rays’ stadium deal falls apart. No surprise here — the Tampa Bay Rays have officially backed out of their new ballpark plans in St. Petersburg. While
Referral Winner Page 4
Wacky April Holidays Page 5
–Darren
Puzzle Time! Page 5
With hurricane season looming and big shifts happening in insurance and sports, there’s a lot to keep an eye on. As always, if you have questions about your insurance or need help getting prepared, give us a call. Stay informed, stay prepared, and let’s hope for a quiet storm season!
Classic Fish Fry Page 5
February Referrals and March Puzzle
disappointing, there is one potential silver lining: New
Winner! Page 6
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Toll free (800) 828-2226 Fax (727) 577-4991
www.vermost.com newsletter@vermost.com
HIT THE ROAD WITH CONFIDENCE WHY MOTORHOME INSURANCE IS A MUST-HAVE Hitting the road in your motorhome is an adventure like no other. The freedom to explore, discover new destinations, and travel at your own pace makes RV life incredibly rewarding. But before you begin your next journey, there’s something important to consider: motorhome insurance. Just like your home or car, your RV needs proper protection to ensure you can enjoy every trip with peace of mind. COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE FOR YOUR HOME ON WHEELS. Your motorhome is your home away from home. That’s why standard auto insurance isn’t enough to protect it fully. Motorhome insurance is designed specifically for RV owners, covering the driving aspect and the unique risks of living on the road. Whether you’re taking a quick weekend trip or embarking on an extended adventure, the right coverage keeps you protected from unexpected situations. CUSTOMIZED POLICIES TO FIT YOUR NEEDS. Motorhome insurance offers various coverage options tailored to your specific situation. Liability coverage protects you in case of an accident where you’re at fault, covering injuries or property damage. Comprehensive coverage helps safeguard against theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. You can also opt for collision coverage to cover repair costs if you’re involved in an accident. Choosing the right combination of coverage ensures your investment and travels stay secure. PROTECTION FOR YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS. An RV carries more than passengers — it’s also packed with personal belongings. From clothing and electronics to camping gear and kitchen essentials, your possessions should be protected like in a traditional home. Motorhome insurance can include coverage for theft, damage, or loss of personal items, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. COVERAGE FOR EMERGENCIES. Roadside breakdowns and unexpected accidents can put a damper on any trip, but the right insurance policy can help. Many motorhome insurance plans include emergency expense coverage, which can assist with towing, temporary lodging, and even alternative transportation if your RV needs repairs. This support means you can get back on the road with minimal hassle. Don’t let unexpected setbacks ruin your adventures. Investing in motorhome insurance is a smart way to protect yourself, your RV, and your belongings. Before your next trip, contact Vermost Insurance Agency for a free, no-obligation quote and see how we can help you find the best coverage at the best price!
America’s Invincible Icon A Deep Dive Into ‘Old Ironsides’ Some American institutions were built to last. In 1794, a shipbuilder named Joshua Humphreys earned his status as an American hero by designing the first half-dozen warships used by the U.S. Navy. Amazingly, one of these ships, the USS Constitution, remains commissioned to this day after being used in some of our country’s most significant achievements at sea. The USS Constitution was first commissioned circa 1797 during the Quasi-War with France before being shipped off to North Africa during the U.S. conflict with the Barbary Pirates. However, the ship’s greatest fame came during the War of 1812, when it helped secure a victory against the British Navy. Known for its virtually impenetrable construction, the USS Constitution earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” after it was victorious against a British warship known as the HMS Guerriere. When the war-worn Old Ironsides seemed to be nearing the end of its structural life and would need to be decommissioned in 1830, a national campaign to save the ship kept it in service. By 1881, Old Ironsides finally got its well-earned retirement, and the ship was officially decommissioned. Was that the end of this iconic vessel’s storied history? Not by a long shot! In 1931, the Navy returned the ship to a different kind of active duty, where it remains to this day. These days, Old Ironsides is docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, Massachusetts — next to a nonprofit museum dedicated to preserving its incomparable impact on American history. The warship and museum attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, and official USS Constitution crew members are on hand to deliver presentations on the frigate’s extraordinary past. More than 200 years after it first left Boston Harbor, Old Ironsides continues to stand (or, more accurately, float ) as a symbol of American ingenuity and our nation’s commitment to liberty and freedom for all.
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1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771-3315
Phone: (727) 748-2886
A family road trip is a great way to make memories with the people you love. But along with all the adventure, you can expect challenges. What’s the key to making the journey as pleasurable as the destination? Preparation. A little planning will go a long way toward making your road trip easy, fun, and memorable — in a good way. CHECKING FOR VEHICLE SAFETY Your trip’s safety depends on your car’s safety, so a thorough vehicle inspection is essential. This includes checking tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. A professional assessment can provide added peace of mind if your car hasn’t been to the mechanic recently. And don’t forget the emergency kit. At a minimum, you need a spare tire, jumper cables, first-aid supplies, and basic tools. PACKING ESSENTIALS Road trips can quickly head south (figuratively!) without the necessities. Packing healthy snacks and plenty of water will keep everyone hydrated and satisfied between meal breaks. Bringing pillows, blankets, and loose-fitting clothing will ensure comfort on long drives. And don’t forget the entertainment. Create playlists to cut down on disputes over the radio, and bring audiobooks and travel games for when you need a break from the music. PLANNING THE ROUTE GPS devices and smartphone apps make modern travel a breeze with real-time directions and traffic updates. However, some areas of the country have poor cell service. Downloading your route before your trip can avoid the headache of spotty internet service. It’s also wise to bookmark any stops you plan to make. This includes roadside attractions and rest areas for restrooms and meal breaks. SETTING THE GROUND RULES Families often forget to review their rules for car travel. Setting expectations early on can make all the difference. Start by establishing rules for in-car behavior — no screaming, arguing, or distracting the driver. Then, to make it easier to maintain the peace, involve the kids in creating a list of car-friendly activities. Consider implementing a rotation system for seating, snack selection, and playlist control to help keep things under control. While you likely have a destination goal, road trips are just as much about the time you spend getting there. By following a few tips, you can have a great family adventure. Family Road Trips Done Right Tips for Traveling With Your Crew
Nature photography offers a great way to get outside and capture the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re new to this hobby or have been snapping photos for years, you can always enhance your skills with these four tips for producing compelling outdoor photos. PLAN AHEAD Before heading outside with your camera and other gear, research your chosen location and the subject you aim to photograph. Understanding the local wildlife, plant life, and weather conditions can inform your equipment selection. Timing is also key. Early morning and late afternoon, known as the “golden hours,” offer soft, diffused light that enhances natural scenes. MASTER YOUR EQUIPMENT Be sure to familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings. Some of the most important include aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which control exposure and depth of field. For instance, a wide aperture (low f-stop) can help create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background, which is particularly effective for wildlife photography. Conversely, a narrow aperture (high f-stop) is ideal for landscape shots because it increases the depth of field and helps keep more of the scene in focus. CONSIDER COMPOSITION In photography, composition is key. When taking nature photographs, apply compositional rules such as the rule of thirds (placing subjects off-center), leading lines (guiding the eye with pathways or rivers), and framing (using natural elements to highlight the subject). Experimenting with different perspectives and angles can also add depth to your photos. BE RESPECTFUL Whenever you’re out in the field, respect the environment by following local guidelines, maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, and minimizing your impact on natural habitats. Always stay on designated paths and never remove any natural objects. Following a few simple rules protects wildlife and the landscape and maintains the integrity of your photography. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy the outdoors while capturing images that reflect the beauty of the natural world. CAPTURE NATURE’S BEAUTY LIKE A PRO Quick Tips for Better Outdoor Photos
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Toll free (800) 828-2226
Fax (727) 577-4991
www.vermost.com
newsletter@vermost.com
BE A LIFESAVER We want to thank everyone who referred their friends, family, and coworkers to Vermost Insurance throughout 2024. When you refer someone to us, you receive rewards for each referral and are entered into 2024 REFERRAL WINNER! 2025 REFERRAL PROGRAM
monthly and annual drawings for additional, even bigger prizes. Your referrals mean a lot to us, and we want to reward you for helping us grow our Vermost Insurance family. The annual grand prize winner of our 2024 referral program was Jene Cook. He received a 55-inch 4K TV plus a $250 donation to the charity of his choice. If you want a shot at the 2025 prize, keep sending referrals our way. Your referrals make us happy, and we hope our referral program makes you happy, too!
Jene Cook was our 2024 referral winner of the 55-inch 4K TV plus a $250 donation to a charity of his choice.
Be Entered in MONTHLY Drawings for • A $50 GIFT CARD • PLUS...ANNUAL Drawing for a
• EACH Referral • $5 Starbucks Gift Certificate • 3 FL Lottery Scratch-Off Tickets • A chance to win prizes! • $5 donation to our spotlight charity: Hope Villages of America
$500 Amazon Gift Card plus a $250 donation to the charity of the winner’s choice
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1200 Belcher Rd. S. Suite 1 ● Largo, FL 33771-3315 ● Phone: (727) 748-2886 Largo, FL 33771-3315 Phone: (727) 748-2886 1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1
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Wacky April Holidays
• April 1 — National One Cent Day • April 2 — National DIY Day • April 3 — National Find a Rainbow Day • April 4 — National Vitamin C Day • April 5 — National Deep Dish Pizza Day • April 6 — National Carbonara Day • April 7 — National Coffee Cake Day • April 8 — National Zoo Lovers Day • April 9 — National Unicorn Day
• April 15 — National Laundry Day • April 16 — National Bean Counter Day • April 17 — National Cheeseball Day • April 19 — National Hanging Out Day • April 20 — National Cheddar Fries Day • April 22 — National Jelly Bean Day • April 23 — National Cherry Cheesecake Day • April 24 — National Pigs-in-a-Blanket Day • April 25 — National Hug a Plumber Day • April 26 — National Pretzel Day • April 27 — National Gummi Bear Day • April 28 — National Superhero Day • April 29 — National Shrimp Scampi Day • April 30 — National Bubble Tea Day
• April 10 — National Farm Animals Day • April 11 — National Cheese Fondue Day • April 12 — National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day • April 13 — National Make Lunch Count Day • April 14 — Look Up at the Sky Day
CLASSIC FISH FRY
WORD SEARCH
Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
We’re in the middle of Lent, so there’s no better time to host your own fish fry for your loved ones!
Ingredients
• Vegetable oil • 2 lbs fresh cod • Salt and pepper, to taste • 1/2 cup all-purpose unbleached flour • 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp water • 2 cups plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper • Lemon wedges
Directions 1. Pour 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. 2. Cut cod into 4 servings and season with salt and pepper. 3. Place flour into a pie tin. Whisk eggs and water in a second pie tin. Combine bread crumbs, mustard powder, and cayenne in a third pie tin. 4. Coat your fish in the flour tin, then the egg tin, then the bread crumb tin. 5. Set coated fish in hot oil and fry for 5 minutes on each side. 6. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!
ARBOR ARIES
CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND FOOLS
GARDEN KITE RAINBOW SHOWERS
BASEBALL CHERRIES
You can fax, email, or mail your completed puzzle for a chance to win our monthly prize!
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Toll free (800) 828-2226
Fax (727) 577-4991 www.vermost.com newsletter@vermost.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
1200 Belcher Road South, Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771 www.vermost.com (727) 748-2886
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
You Make Us Happy
We Insure More Than Just Cars and Homes Here’s a list of some of our lines of protection:
People who referred clients to us in February: • Carol Borgeson
• Elena George/ Guardianship
› Antique vehicles › Annuities › Auto › Boat/RV › Bonds › Builder’s risk › Commercial auto › Commercial property › Condo › Disability
› Flood › General liability › Home › ID theft › Life › Mobile home › Motorcycle/Jet Ski › Notary public
• Elaine Tucker • Lorraine Sacco • Debra DiFabritiis • Bobby Cannon/ Artesano Homes LLC.
of Miami-Dade & Monroe, PA
• Mark Miller • Regina Reuss • Justin Orr/
March Puzzle Winner: This could have been you!
› Umbrella › Workers’
February Referral Winner: Mark Miller
Priority One LLC
compensation
• Joni Mann
... and more!
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1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771-3315
Phone: (727) 748-2886
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