Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
Protection Team News New Year, New Legislative Session
We'll Keep You Informed on Insurance Changes
How Will Legislators Change Insurance Laws? Page 1 VOL 15, ISSUE 14 Michigan’s Stray With the Biggest Heart Page 2 Understanding the Importance of Final Expense Insurance Page 2 Teach Kids to Resolve Their Own Arguments! Page 3
As we bid farewell to 2023 and store away our holiday decorations, I hope this message finds you and your loved ones in good health and high spirits. With the
of awarding a 55-inch TV to this year's lucky winner, Paul Burns, a local Probate Attorney. Additionally, we donated $250 to his favorite charity, the Indian Rocks
dawn of the new year, the Florida Legislature embarks on its new session, and it comes as no surprise that insurance will once again be at the forefront of their agenda. While it's too early to discern legislators’ precise plans and strategies, rest assured that I will be closely monitoring their progress throughout the session and keeping you well-informed. Speaking of the weather, have you noticed the slightly colder and wetter winter we've been experiencing? It appears that El Niño is in full swing this year, promising a rainy winter and hopefully a quieter hurricane season
Rotary Foundation. Please check out the photo included in this newsletter and the video online of me conducting the drawing. Your referrals mean the world to us, and we appreciate your trust and support more than words can express. Lastly, I can't conclude this month's article
without a quick mention of our
University of South Florida (USF) Bulls and their outstanding performance in the recent collegiate bowl game. Who would have expected their defense, which faced challenges all season, to achieve a
Referral Winner Page 4
Noelle and Jonathan enjoy a post-holiday ski outing.
Wacky February Holidays Page 5
ahead. Given our nearly 12-inch rainfall deficit from 2023, I believe we can all agree that a rainy winter is preferable to wildfires and a robust hurricane season. Before we officially close the chapter on 2023, I'd like to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of our wonderful customers who referred friends and family to our office last year. Your support resulted in a remarkable 250 referrals throughout the year. As part of our referral program, I had the privilege
shutout? Then, the offense set an all-time bowl record for the largest points differential in a shutout victory. Notably, USF was the sole Florida team to emerge victorious during the college bowl season. It's evident the team is on the path to becoming a winning program once again. Go Bulls! Until next month,
Word Search Page 5
Puff Pastry Berry Hearts Page 5 December Referrals and Puzzle Winner! Page 6
–Darren
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Toll free (800) 828-2226 Fax (727) 577-4991
www.vermost.com newsletter@vermost.com
PEACE OF MIND IN PREPARATION THE KEY ADVANTAGES OF FINAL EXPENSE INSURANCE Final expense insurance, often known as burial insurance, serves as a financial safeguard to cover end-of-life expenses. While contemplating death might be uncomfortable, preparing for it is a responsible and caring choice, especially considering the financial burdens that can accompany the passing of a loved one. The cost of a funeral, burial, or cremation can be substantial, often ranging between $7,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on the services and location. For many families, such expenses can pose a significant financial strain, particularly when they least expect it. Final expense insurance steps in to alleviate this burden by providing a dedicated source of funds to cover these inevitable costs. One of the key aspects of final expense insurance is its accessibility. Unlike some life insurance policies that might require medical exams or have stringent underwriting criteria, final expense insurance typically offers simplified underwriting. This means that even individuals who might have health issues or are older and
From Stray Dog to Nursing Home Hero Scout's Heartwarming Tale A heartwarming story unfolded about an hour north of Traverse City, Michigan. It's the tale of Scout, an adventurous dog whose journey from an abandoned stray to a beloved companion showcases the love our furry friends have for us. Scout's story began as a frequent escapee from Antrim County Animal Control. Scout constantly “slipped the leash” and traveled to the same location after all his escapes: the Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility. Every time he escaped, Scout crossed a highway, jumped a 10-foot chain link fence and a 6-foot privacy fence, and slipped in the front door to sleep on his couch in the lobby. The nurses at Meadow Brook had to make a choice after Scout reappeared in their lobby for the third time. After recognizing the patients wanted Scout around just as much as he wanted to be there, they happily took him in. After giving him a check-up, it was clear Scout had not lived the easiest life before finding his way to Meadow Brook. No one knows where he came from before escaping animal control for the first time, what his original name was, or the exact abuse he suffered before finding his forever home. Scout flinches at loud sounds and has round pellets, likely buckshot or BBs, lodged in his face. But despite his past, Scout openly cares for and protects the residents of Meadow Brook. Scout now patrols Meadow Brook, visiting the residents as often as possible. Whenever someone is having a rough day, whether it’s because a friend forgot to visit or their health is acting up, Scout is there to ease their woes with a damp nose poking for affection and a doggy smile on his face. “He makes a good nursing home dog,” Stephanie Elsey, the facility’s clinical care coordinator, said. “He knows his job, and he’s good at what he does.” Scout's journey from a shelter's uncertainty to a beloved member of the Meadow Brook community is more than just a happy tale. It's a reminder of life's unexpected joys and the incredible, healing bond between humans and animals.
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
When you hear the word “conflict” in the context of kids, you might think of schoolyard bullies or having to ground your kid. However, children have their own disputes, ranging from toddler tussles over toys to digital duels between pre-teens. While they are undeniably challenging, conflicts provide kids the chance to learn life lessons. They encourage young minds to put on their detective hats, explore new perspectives, reevaluate old ideas, and even cement the bonds of friendship. Use the following strategies to equip your child with the superpower of conflict resolution. EMPOWER PEACEMAKERS Conflict resolution skills are the compass that guides kids through the maze of life’s disputes. Here’s a map to help your child navigate these tricky waters: • Pause and Reflect: Teach your child the art of taking a deep breath and calming the storm within. Reacting in a frenzy of anger is like tossing gasoline on a fire. • Speak Your Truth: Encourage your child to explain their side of the story in clear and simple words. Understanding each other’s viewpoints is key to conflict resolution. • Get Creative: Foster their inner Picasso of problem-solving. Encourage them to brainstorm solutions that cater to everyone’s wishes, like a culinary mastermind crafting the perfect dish. • Choose Respect: Teach your child the importance of treating others kindly, even when disagreements threaten to capsize the boat. These steps help kids patch up the current squabbles and cultivate emotional intelligence — a shield against future conflicts and a bridge to tolerance. FOSTER ‘FUN’ CONFLICT-RESOLUTION EXPERIENCES IN THE HOME. Parents wield the magic wand in conflict resolution play. Organize family activities that mimic real-life conflict scenarios, like board games with rules that spark disagreements. These friendly bouts teach your child the art of keeping their cool under pressure. And don’t forget about the power of make- believe! Encourage your child to stage a conflict resolution drama. It’s not just fun; it’s a crash course in diplomacy. Remember, every successful conflict your child conquers will give them confidence. By imparting these skills early on, you gift them tools for a lifetime of harmonious interactions, both personally and professionally. So, let’s embark on this valuable conflict resolution journey together — the world will be a better place. TEACH KIDS TO NAVIGATE CONFLICT A Parent’s Guide to Peace
worry about being declined for traditional life insurance policies can secure coverage with final expense insurance. The benefits of this insurance aren’t solely financial; they extend to peace of mind. Knowing that loved ones won’t be burdened with hefty funeral expenses during a time of grief is a priceless gift. It allows families to focus on honoring their loved one’s memory without the added stress of handling
immediate financial obligations. Final expense insurance covers: • Embalming • Casket
• Headstones • Cremation • Credit card bills • Legal bills • Medical bills
• Flowers • Services • Burial plot
Today, final expense insurance is a necessity, especially with the rising costs of pretty much everything. To give your loved ones peace of mind, give us a call today. At Vermost Insurance Agency, we offer free and comparative quotes on final expense insurance from a variety of different insurance carriers. Call us at 727-748-2886 to receive your quote today!
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.
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 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: Humane Society 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 February Holidays
• Feb. 1 — National Dark Chocolate Day • Feb. 2 — National Tater Tot Day • Feb. 3 — National Carrot Cake Day • Feb. 4 — National Homemade Soup Day • Feb. 6 — National Chopsticks Day • Feb. 7 — National Fettuccine Alfredo Day • Feb. 8 — National Kite Flying Day • Feb. 9 — National No One Eats Alone Day • Feb. 10 — National Cream Cheese Brownie Day • Feb. 11 — National Peppermint Patty Day • Feb. 13 — National Cheddar Day
• Feb. 16 — National Do a Grouch a Favor Day • Feb. 17 — National Random Acts of Kindness Day • Feb. 19 — National Chocolate Mint Day • Feb. 20 — National Comfy Day • Feb. 21 — National Sticky Bun Day • Feb. 22 — National Cook a Sweet Potato Day
• Feb. 23 — National Dog Biscuit Day • Feb. 24 — National Tortilla Chip Day
• Feb. 25 — National Chocolate Covered Nut Day • Feb. 26 — National Set a Good Example Day
• Feb. 27 — National Polar Bear Day • Feb. 28 — National Tooth Fairy Day • Feb. 29 — National Leap Day
• Feb. 14 — National Ferris Wheel Day • Feb. 15 — National Gumdrop Day
Valentine’s Day means heart-shaped everything, even desserts! Bake these puff pastry berry hearts for Valentine’s Day or any other day. PUFF PASTRY BERRY HEARTS Inspired by Weelicious.com
WORD SEARCH
• 1 package frozen puff pastry, defrosted • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 tsp powdered sugar • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or berries of your choice) Ingredients Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Unfold the puff pastry and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut into heart shapes. 2. On a baking sheet, place puff pastry hearts and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. 3. In a standing mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and beat on high for 30 more seconds or until thick and fluffy. 4. Remove hearts from the oven and allow to cool completely. Slice each heart in half between pastry layers to create 2 hearts. Top the bottom half with whipped cream and berries, and place the other half on top to form a sandwich.
AQUARIUS CANDY CUPID GROUNDHOG
HEART LINCOLN CHOCOLATE PENNSYLVANIA
PHIL PRESIDENTS VALENTINE WINTER
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 December: • Deborah Valentine • Shaneka Johnson
• Thomas Belzey • Marines Aviles • Debra Bullock (King) • Jennifer Archbold • Noray Sarkisian • Deewyn Cox • Lucinda Cain • Darby Jones • Condo Property Mgmt
› Antique vehicles › Annuities › Auto › Boat/RV › Bonds › Builder's risk › Commercial auto › Commercial property › Condo › Dental › Disability › Employee benefits
› Flood › General liability › Health › Home › ID theft › Life › Mobile home › Motorcycle/Jet Ski › Notary public
• Betsie Leslie • Mary Rivera
• Stanley Schneider • Elaine Cornillaud • Deborah Chambers
January Puzzle Winner: Sharon Garroway December Referral Winner: Deborah Valentine
› Umbrella › Workers'
• Nancy Cheek • Mark St. Clair
compensation
... and more!
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1200 Belcher Rd. S., Suite 1 Largo, FL 33771-3315
Phone: (727) 748-2886
DONATE BLOOD
Donors Receive
Vermost Insurance Agency Monday, March 4 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
eGift CARD $20
...and more!
All donors receive*: - $20 eGift Card - St. Patrick's Day T-shirt
– PLUS –
- Wellness Checkup including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening. __________ Fact: Approximately 62% of the population is eligible to donate blood.
– PLUS –
Appointments are encouraged, please visit oneblood.org/donate-now and use sponsor code 71418
*One offer per donor, per donation. No cash value. Not-transferable. Gifts may vary. For more information please visit oneblood.org/details. ID REQUIRED
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