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Protection Team News Nothing on the Horizon Except More Storms
No Legislative Changes and Inclement Weather Page 1 Tackle Spring- Cleaning With a Week-by-Week Plan Page 2 VOL 15, ISSUE 16
As the Florida legislative session draws to a close, it’s becoming apparent that significant changes in the insurance industry are unlikely to materialize. Unfortunately, the current focus seems to be primarily on mandatory budget issues and a handful of attention-grabbing bills, with little attention given to insurance matters — unless there’s a last-minute surprise incoming. I apologize that there isn’t much news to report at the moment. Rest assured, I will keep you updated on the final outcomes once the session concludes and the governor makes decisions on each bill. However, I advise against holding high hopes for substantial changes this term. On a less than encouraging note, I must share with you the latest financial news from State Farm. Their 2023 year-end results have been released, and they’ve reported another staggering underwriting loss, totaling $14 billion. This surpasses their record-setting losses from 2022, marking yet another challenging year for the company. If State Farm’s performance is any indication, it’s unlikely that we’ll see a decrease in premiums anytime soon. While I’m still attempting to
May is Older Americans Month and Vermost Insurance is hosting an Essential Toiletries Drive for homebound seniors! Stay tuned for details in our May newsletter!
obtain more detailed data at the state level, it’s clear that the industry is facing significant challenges. In addition to financial concerns, we’re also approaching the beginning of hurricane season, with reports indicating a potential return of El Niño this year. This suggests that we may experience another active storm season. As we await the official hurricane season projections, I urge you to take proactive measures and prepare early. Take advantage of tax- free days to stock up on essentials, and remember to secure your flood insurance policy well in advance, as there is typically a 30-day waiting period. Switching gears, there’s little news to report on the status of the Buccaneers and their free agents at the time of writing this. However, announcements are expected soon. While we hope to retain some key players, it’s prudent not to set unrealistic expectations. Meanwhile, Major League Baseball has begun. As we anticipate the Rays’ performance this season, it’s evident they will face challenges, including the loss of key pitchers and legal issues surrounding Wander Franco. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for a successful season, aiming for at least a .500 record. Until next month,
General Liability Insurance 101 Page 2
Self-Care Practices to Help You Thrive Page 3
Referral Winner Page 4
Wacky April Holidays Page 5
Puzzle Time! Page 5
Craveable Carrot Cake Page 5
–Darren
February Referrals and Puzzle Winner! Page 6
Exploring the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine
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Toll free (800) 828-2226 Fax (727) 577-4991
www.vermost.com newsletter@vermost.com
PEACE OF MIND AND PROTECTION UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE Running a business involves navigating many risks, from accidents on your premises to lawsuits filed by dissatisfied customers. In today’s society, having comprehensive insurance coverage is more than a precautionary measure; it’s a fundamental aspect of responsible business management. One of the most crucial types of insurance for businesses is general liability insurance, which protects a wide range of liabilities. Let’s examine why general liability insurance is essential for Likely, the most significant benefit of general liability insurance is its ability to shield businesses from lawsuits and legal claims. Whether it’s a slip-and-fall accident on your property or allegations of negligence in your products or services, this insurance coverage can help cover legal fees, court costs, settlements, and judgments. Without this protection, businesses risk facing severe financial businesses of all sizes and industries. PROTECTION AGAINST LAWSUITS
Your 4-Week Spring- Cleaning Calendar Spring-cleaning can be overwhelming. From the kitchen counter to the ceiling fan, there’s a lot of ground to cover. But there’s a trick to make it easier: Breaking down the work into quick, doable tasks spread over four weeks. WEEK 1: THE LIVING ROOM The start of every journey begins with a single step, and that step is acquiring and prepping supplies. Wash out buckets, empty vacuum bags, throw microfiber cloths in the wash, clean mops, and shake out brooms. Next, it’s time to clean the light fixtures. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away dust and debris. Then dunk the cloth in soapy water, wring it out, and scrub the light fixture covering the bulb until it shines — just make sure you turn the lights off first. Once you’ve finished the lights, head to the bookshelves. Dust the tops and wipe down the sides. Make sure to wipe down any pictures or framed art on the wall. Lastly, move the furniture and vacuum underneath. WEEK 2: THE KITCHEN Clean the dishwasher filter first. Devote the next two days to getting the stove to sparkle, including ridding the vent of grease. Wipe down the countertops and the cabinets. Clean out the microwave and wipe down any other countertop appliances. Congratulations, week two is over! WEEK 3: THE BATHROOM You’ll want to begin by removing the grime from the showerhead and sanitizing the curtain. The curtain can be scrubbed and air- dried in the sun. Clean and sanitize the shower and sink. For the toilets, get under the rim with a toilet brush and give the much-ignored back some love, too. Now that the toilet’s shining, it is the perfect opportunity to get the floor. Take a little extra time to get the baseboards. WEEK 4: THE BEDROOM Clean the bedrooms from top to bottom. Now is a good time to wash your pillows and air-dry them. Bedroom ceiling fans can build up a lot of gunk over the winter. An easy way to clean them is by pulling a pillowcase around the blades and pulling them back. Next, polish any wood furniture. Thoroughly clean the windows with glass cleaner or a homemade mixture of vinegar and water, and remember to clean the window tracks. Lastly, test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
repercussions that could lead to bankruptcy. COVERAGE FOR PROPERTY DAMAGE
Accidents happen, and businesses may find themselves liable for damage to third-party property. Whether it’s damage caused by
Vermost Insurance Now has a relationship with Chuck Chucri, who offers financial planning and investment
Did You Know ...
advisory services!
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1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771-3315
Phone: (727) 748-2886
CALL FOR DETAILS OR TO MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY (727) 748-2886 Chuck Chucri, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, FLMI Financial Advisor The Prudential Insurance Company of America Prudential.com/advisor/chuck-chucri Our financial advisors and financial planners offer financial planning and/or investment advice through Pruco Securities, LLC (Pruco), under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS). A financial advisor or financial planner offers securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco and offers insurance products as an agent of issuing insurance companies. (800) 778-2255 Vermost Insurance is an independent organization and is not an affiliate of Prudential Financial. your employees or because of your business operations, general liability insurance provides coverage for property damage claims. This coverage extends to repairs, replacements, and associated legal costs, ensuring your business remains financially stable despite unexpected expenses. ENHANCED CREDIBILITY General liability insurance demonstrates to clients, partners, and stakeholders that your business takes responsibility seriously. It enhances your credibility and reputation by showing you are prepared to address unforeseen challenges and protect the interests of those you do business with. This can be valuable when attracting new clients, securing contracts, and building long-term relationships with stakeholders. PEACE OF MIND Running a business is inherently stressful, but having general liability insurance can provide invaluable peace of mind. Knowing you have coverage to handle potential legal claims and property damage incidents allows you to focus on running your business without worrying about financial risks. This peace of mind can contribute to greater confidence and resilience in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. General liability insurance is not just a recommended precaution for businesses — it’s an essential investment in protecting your financial interests, reputation, and long-term viability. By understanding the importance of general liability insurance and securing appropriate coverage, businesses can mitigate risks, enhance credibility, and thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. For more information on general liability insurance and to lock in the best rate for you, call us today!
You matter. It’s an easy thing to forget with the overwhelming obligations and responsibilities most people have, but you matter. Everyone, including you, must practice self-care to SELF-CARE TIPS FOR A HAPPIER AND HEALTHIER YOU The connectivity provided by technology comes with several benefits, but they have just as many drawbacks. Companies design phones to be addictive. Your brain releases a little dopamine whenever you get a notification, not unlike a slot machine. That’s why we constantly check our phones, even when they don’t ring or vibrate. Meanwhile, studies correlate heavy social media usage with profound feelings of loneliness and depression. Everyone needs to distance themselves from technology every so often. Try leaving your phone at home when you go outside or set a specific no-screen time. Better yet, dive into nature. Practice yoga in the park or hike through the woods and breathe in the fresh air instead of scrolling. DREAM MORE Our bodies demand that we spend about a third of the day sleeping, and it does so for a reason. Almost every cell needs time to refresh and renew. But many people continue to shrug off sleep, which falls to the bottom of their priorities. ensure their happiness and peace of mind. DISCONNECT FROM TECHNOLOGY Take the time to increase your sleep quality. It helps almost every part of your body, from brain to toe. To do so, implement positive sleep habits. Don’t watch TV before bed, keep your bedroom dark, and put your phone on “do not disturb.” INDULGE YOURSELF It’s all too easy to devote our lives to other people, but taking time for ourselves is essential. Some me-time lets you get some perspective through joy. Once a month, push the responsibilities away and spend the day doing what you love. If you want a spa day, get a massage. If you’d prefer to paint figurines in your basement, that’s all you. We spend most of our time in our heads, preoccupied with our thoughts and focused on our obligations. It’s not good for our mental health. The sheer weight of life is heavy on our shoulders and minds. Ease those worries and anxieties by putting the phone away, getting a good night’s sleep, and spending quality time with ourselves.
1007626-00005-00
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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 2023. When you refer someone to us, you receive rewards for each referral and are entered into 2023 REFERRAL WINNER! 2024 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 2023 referral program is Paul Burns. He received a 55-inch 4K TV plus a $250 donation to the charity of his choice. If you want a shot at the 2024 prize, keep sending referrals our way. Your referrals make us happy, and we hope our referral program makes you happy, too!
Paul Burns is our 2023 referral winner of the 55-inch 4K TV plus a $250 donation to a charity of his choice.
• EACH Referral • $5 Starbucks Gift Certificate • 3 FL Lottery Scratch-Off Tickets • A chance to win prizes! • $5 donation to our spotlight charity: Meals on Wheels of Pinellas
• A $50 GIFT CARD
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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 - April Fools’ Day • April 2 - National Ferret Day • April 3 - National Find a Rainbow Day • April 4 - National Burrito Day • April 5 - National Flash Drive Day • April 6 - National Caramel Popcorn Day • April 7 - National Girl Me Too Day • April 8 - National Empanada Day • April 9 - National Unicorn Day • April 10 - National Farm Animals Day • April 11 - National Cheese Fondue Day • April 12 - National Day of Silence • April 13 - National Make Lunch Count Day • April 14 - Look Up at the Sky Day • April 15 - National Glazed Spiral Ham Day
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic carrot cake! CRAVEABLE CARROT CAKE • April 23 - National Cherry Cheesecake Day • April 24 - National Pigs-in-a-Blanket Day • April 25 - National Hug a Plumber Day • April 26 - National Help a Horse Day • April 27 -National Gummi Bear Day • April 28 - National Superhero Day • April 29 - National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day • April 30 - National Oatmeal Cookie Day • April 16 - National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day • April 17 - National Crawfish Day • April 18 - National Animal Crackers Day • April 19 - National Hanging Out Day • April 20 - National Cheddar Fries Day • April 21 - National Chocolate-Covered Cashews Day • April 22 - National Jelly Bean Day
WORD SEARCH
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp baking soda • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp nutmeg • 1/2 tsp salt • 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups
vegetable oil • 4 large eggs • 3 cups grated carrots • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) • Cream cheese frosting (optional)
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan. 3. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. 4. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, oil, and eggs. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until blended. 6. Stir in carrots and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan. 7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 8. Cool in pan before serving. (For extra decadence, spread with cream cheese frosting once the cake cools.)
ARBOR ARIES
CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND ENVIRONMENT
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: • Michael Hanuschewicz
• Vivian Lasagni • Lee Vogt • Paul Dance • Andy Williams • Valarie Jane Grim • Amy Hocking • Richard Difrenna • Edward Kiker • Sherri Houston • Tandi Sampson
› 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
• Mercedes Garcia • Marines Avilles • Marylou Horan • Cheryl Sienko • William Goulet • Michele Pedro
March Puzzle Winner: This Could Have Been You!
› Umbrella › Workers’
• Bob Grimes • Bruce Lange
February Referral Winner: Edward Kiker
compensation
... and more!
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1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771-3315
Phone: (727) 748-2886
PROTECTING THE FUTURE OF YOUR BUSINESS
LUNCH & LEARN
Please join us for lunch and a discussion about common concerns that arise for business owners.
YOUR HOSTS:
DARREN VERMOST President, Vermost Insurance Agency
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
CHUCK CHUCRI CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
RSVP BY APRIL 16, 2024 TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT The What Ifs and Risks of Owning a Business The Challenge of Employee Turnover What’s Next? Retirement and Passing on the Business
Tuesday April 23, 2024 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
LOCATION:
Vermost Insurance Agency 1200 Belcher Rd. S. Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771
727-223-8400
brian.chucri@prudential.com
Offering financial planning and investment advisory services and programs through Pruco Securities, LLC. (PRUCO) under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to a separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing insurance companies. Vermost Insurance Agency is not affiliated with The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates, including Pruco. Other products and services may be offered through a non-Prudential entity. 1-800-778-2255. 1077995-00001-00
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