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Learn to Drive… Before You Learn to Drive?

If you’ve got teens or older kids gearing up for the road, you know how this goes. First, you pay for a substance abuse course. Then a traffic law test. Then you fork over another fee so your 15-year-old can put your nerves (and brakes) to the test as you teach them how to survive Brandon traffic during school pickup.

Well, starting July 1, the state’s adding another step to the ride.

Governor Ron DeSantis just signed a new law requiring all 15-, 16-, and 17-year-olds to complete a full driver’s education course before they can get a learner’s permit. Yep, now you’ve got to learn to drive before you're allowed to learn to drive.

In theory, it’s a smart move. More prep and safer roads. But for parents? It’s just one more logistical headache. Especially when, last year, some schools required a learner’s permit before a student could even sign up for driver’s ed. Catch-22, anyone?

Adults 18 and older? No changes. They still just need to complete the traffic law and substance abuse course.

But if your teen’s been eyeing their first trip down Lithia Pinecrest or Causeway, make sure they’re signed up for a certified driver’s ed course. Starting in July, it’s not just smart, it’s required.

Stay alert, Brandon. And maybe double-check your insurance.

Things to do

🐝 WHAT’S BUZZING AROUND TOWN 🐝

Don’t Wait for the Wind: Storm Prep Starts Now

The 2025 hurricane season officially kicked off this week, and after last year’s storms left parts of the region underwater and in the dark, officials are urging residents across Brandon, Valrico, Lithia, and Fishhawk to take preparation seriously.

🚨 New Gear, Smarter Power, Bigger Lessons

Last season brought over 100 water rescues to the Bay area alone. In response, Tampa first responders rolled out specialized SHERP all-terrain vehicles—designed to rescue both people and pets in high-water emergencies. And with widespread power outages still fresh in everyone’s memory, TECO has upgraded its outage map technology and is training out-of-state crews in advance.

Meanwhile, Port Tampa Bay is tightening its game plan too, focusing on backup systems for fuel terminals after last year’s delays left some stations dry for days.

💧 The Real Flood Risk? Blocked Drains.

One of the most surprising takeaways from last year’s storms wasn’t the wind, it was the water. Overflowing storm drains and backed-up retention ponds turned several neighborhoods into impassable swamps.

To help prevent a repeat, crews have already removed 500+ tons of debris and reinforced pump stations across the county. Still, officials warn: drainage is only as good as your neighborhood’s weakest link.

🧰 It Starts at Home

Officials are doing their part, but storm prep starts with us. That’s why we’re highlighting three of our sponsors that are helping locals gear up for what’s ahead:

🏠 Steadfast Roofing
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Don’t wait for a hurricane to find out you’ve got a problem. Steadfast offers thorough inspections and top-tier repairs so you can stay dry—no blue tarp required.

🚪 Square One Garage Solutions
A cluttered garage might seem harmless—until it floods. Whether you’re protecting gear or just need to find a flashlight in the dark, Square One helps turn chaos into calm.

💪 Wellness Vitalized
Storm season isn’t just tough on homes—it’s tough on your body, too. Wellness Vitalized offers everything from lab testing to IV hydration so you stay sharp and energized, no matter what’s happening outside.

✅ Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Missed the Hurricane Preparedness Expo on May 31? That’s okay—the biggest takeaway still applies: The best time to get ready is now.

So check those supplies. Charge your batteries. Double-check your evacuation plan. Because in Florida, preparedness isn’t just smart. It’s survival.

THE BEES KNEES

Not really sure what it means, but we’re sure you’ll find it here.

Local Sports

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Local sports news. Hometown Heroes. Coming Soon!

A Final Note

The Brandon Buzz, more than news, it’s a lifestyle.

Until next time,

Buzzing Local