AGP Executive Report

Retail Expansion: BJ’s says it’s opening 3 new Florida clubs—Ocala, Lecanto, and Port St. Lucie—bringing its state total to 46, while also pushing into newer markets in Kentucky and Indiana. Travel Pressure: Memorial Day weekend is arriving with higher fuel costs and more volatile gas prices, with drivers weighing whether to drive or scale back. Cuba Flashpoint: The U.S. indictment of Raúl Castro is ratcheting tensions, with Florida-linked lawmakers and military voices warning that pressure could slide toward intervention. Energy & Policy: A push to make daylight saving time permanent is gaining momentum in Congress, with Florida Republicans backing the “Sunshine Protection Act.” Investigations: ProPublica and the Texas Tribune add Alexandra Glorioso to their investigative team, continuing scrutiny of Florida’s political use of public funds. Weather Watch: Storm chances rise across parts of Florida over the holiday weekend, especially Sunday.

Gas Prices: Florida’s pump pain is back—AAA and GasBuddy say the statewide regular average hit about $4.51 as prices jumped again ahead of what could be the most expensive summer driving season in years, with Strait of Hormuz worries keeping volatility high. Grocery Costs: Kroger’s new CEO, Greg Foran, says the chain will cut prices on “thousands of products” after customers shrink their “baskets” amid inflation and higher gas. Time Policy: The House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced the Sunshine Protection Act in a 48-1 vote, pushing daylight saving time to become permanent—Florida’s Vern Buchanan is a key backer. Cuba Pressure: The week’s biggest foreign-policy drumbeat continues as the U.S. indicts Raúl Castro, while Rubio calls Cuba a national security threat and warns a peaceful deal is “not high.”

Cuba Tensions Escalate: The U.S. indictment of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro over the 1996 downing of two exile planes is drawing global pushback, with Russia saying the pressure “borders on violence” and China urging the U.S. to stop using “coercion” and sanctions. Florida Politics & Energy: In Washington, Rep. Vern Buchanan’s Sunshine Protection Act is moving to make daylight saving time permanent—while Florida’s own energy help is getting attention, with Volusia County offering assistance for energy bills and housing repairs. Grid vs. AI Power Demand: Oregon regulators approved new data-center rate rules that force large loads to cover grid upgrade costs—another sign the AI buildout is colliding with infrastructure budgets. Gas Watch: Florida regular prices dipped to about $4.23 statewide (AAA), but Memorial Day travel could still bring bumps. Health & Travel Risks: A new beach bacteria report flags multiple popular sites as recurring “hotspots” ahead of peak crowds.

Cuba Escalation: The U.S. indicted former Cuban leader Raúl Castro on murder and conspiracy charges tied to the 1996 downing of two civilian planes, and Trump said the U.S. is “freeing up Cuba” while insisting there will be “no escalation.” Cuba’s government calls it a political move with “no legal basis,” as the case revives a long-simmering Florida Straits tragedy that’s deeply personal for South Florida’s Cuban-American community. Florida Energy & Power: In the background of all the geopolitics, Florida’s grid fight is heating up: FPL’s parent is moving toward a NextEra-Dominion mega-merger aimed at data-center demand, with consumer groups already pushing back. Gas Pressure: Memorial Day travel is still happening, but higher prices are changing behavior—Central Florida averages about $4.54/gal and GasBuddy says fewer people plan longer drives this summer. AI Economy: Nvidia’s earnings beat expectations, and OpenAI is reportedly preparing for an IPO—another reminder that Florida’s power and data-center story is only getting louder.

Insurance Market Update: Florida just added three new property insurers—Builder Reciprocal, Frontline, and Wingsail—bringing the total of new carriers writing homes and condos to 20 since the state’s rate-reform push, a sign regulators see capital flowing back and competition heating up. Grid & AI Power Demand: The big energy story keeps circling back to NextEra’s $66.8B plan to buy Dominion, with analysts pointing to data centers and AI-driven load growth as the main reason utilities are betting on scale. Cuba Pressure Escalates: The DOJ unsealed an indictment charging former Cuban leader Raúl Castro with murder and conspiracy tied to the 1996 shootdown of two civilian planes—another high-stakes move in a broader U.S. pressure campaign. Florida Cost-of-Living: Grocery and gas affordability pressure remains in focus as Memorial Day travel ramps up and prices stay stubborn. Coastal Watch: Sargassum is back on Florida beaches, and officials are urging reporting while warning against removing “wrack” that supports the shoreline ecosystem.

Gas Tax Relief Debate: Florida’s talk of a gas tax holiday is running into reality—DeSantis says the 2022 pause barely moved prices (about 13 cents on average) because fuel costs swing with global markets, not just state levies. Memorial Day Pressure: Even with a small dip, AAA puts Florida gas near $4.21–$4.43 and expects record travel, with many drivers “budgeting differently” instead of canceling. AI Power Demand Meets Utility M&A: The biggest energy story keeps rolling—NextEra and Dominion are moving toward a $67B mega-merger aimed at feeding AI-driven data center growth, with Democrats vowing scrutiny. Clean Energy Land Grab: D3Energy secured a statewide FDOT master lease to build floating solar on stormwater ponds, trying to unlock “already-managed” water sites without new land fights. Cuba Tensions, Florida Risk: New reporting claims Cuba discussed drone-related targets near Florida, while the U.S. tightens sanctions—adding another layer to the region’s energy and security uncertainty.

Mega-Utility Deal: NextEra (FPL’s parent) and Dominion Energy have agreed to a roughly $67B merger, positioning a new giant to meet rising power demand tied to AI and data centers—while Florida regulators and critics immediately ask what it means for affordability and reliability. Household Pressure: Memorial Day is arriving with gas prices spiking (national average around $4.59), and inflation is squeezing budgets—so outlets are pushing practical “hurricane kit” and money-management guidance for families trying to stay ready. Local Power Reality: A new EIA look shows electricity shutoffs for nonpayment remain a serious issue nationwide, with Florida ranking high—another reminder that “energy future” debates start with bills people can actually pay. Politics & Energy Backdrop: Florida’s campaign trail is also heating up around AI data centers, with public pushback growing as voters worry about costs and grid impacts. Community Notes: Duke Energy Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to the Jackson Copeland Foundation to help blood-cancer families cover essentials like lodging and travel.

Utility Deal: NextEra (FPL’s parent) just announced it will buy Dominion Energy in a roughly $67B all-stock merger, creating the world’s largest regulated electric utility serving about 10 million customers across Florida, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, with the close expected in 12–18 months. AI Power Demand: The companies say the move is aimed at meeting surging electricity needs tied to AI data centers—bigger projects, faster timelines, and pressure on affordability. Cuba Tensions: The U.S. added new Cuba sanctions as Havana warns any U.S. military action would trigger a “bloodbath,” while a U.S. watchdog probes strikes on alleged drug boats. Florida Travel & Fuel: Memorial Day gas prices dipped but AAA warns they could rebound as Iran-linked oil costs keep pressure on prices. Local Energy Angle: Separate from the merger, Florida homeowners are still wrestling with HVAC realities in hot-humid, salt-air conditions.

Dominion–NextEra Merger: Dominion Energy and Florida-based NextEra have agreed to combine in a roughly $67B all-stock deal, aiming to create the biggest regulated utility in the U.S. and serve about 10 million customers across Florida, Virginia, North and South Carolina—while pitching $2.25B in bill credits for Dominion customers after closing. Regulatory Scrutiny: The companies still need federal and state approvals, and the early reaction from local officials and advocates is already focused on affordability and who pays for the AI-driven power buildout. Local Help in Volusia: Volusia County is hosting a June 3 outreach event to help residents apply for energy bill aid and housing repair programs, including EHEAP and owner-occupied rehabilitation loans. Cuba Tensions Spill Toward Florida: Cuba’s president warned a U.S. attack would trigger a “bloodbath,” after reports claimed Havana has 300+ drones and may target U.S. interests. Energy Costs Watch: Gas prices in Florida remain volatile heading into Memorial Day, with AAA warning they could tick back up.

Cuba–Drone Tensions: US intelligence says Cuba bought 300+ strike drones from Russia and Iran and discussed possible attacks on US assets, including Guantanamo and Key West—Cuba calls it a “fraudulent case” and denies any threat. Power & Deals: NextEra is reportedly in talks to buy Dominion in a mostly-stock deal valuing Dominion around $76/share (~$66B), a move that would reshape the East Coast grid. Energy Costs on the Ground: South Florida communities are fighting back against high fuel prices—Yung Miami helped run a free-gas giveaway in Miami Gardens. Travel Pressure: With gas tied to the Iran conflict, travelers are shifting toward cheaper hotels and more local trips. Florida Watch: Orlando police allege an EBT fraud ring drained accounts via stolen card info. Data Centers Debate: A new pushback story argues hyperscale data centers are straining farmland, water, and power.

Data Center Cost Shift: Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law pushing large-scale data centers to pay their own electric service costs and preventing the risk from being dumped on households and small businesses—an attempt to keep Florida’s AI boom from turning into a hidden utility bill. Cuba Tensions & Energy Pressure: A newly disclosed U.S. intelligence assessment claims Cuba has acquired 300+ military drones and discussed strike scenarios, while the U.S. continues an oil blockade that’s left the island in a critical energy crunch. Pollution Fight: Environmental groups filed suit seeking tougher federal air rules for trash incinerators, arguing current standards still fall short for communities including Newark and even Florida residents. Gas Watch: Memorial Day travel is ramping up despite higher fuel prices, with AAA projecting 45M+ trips and drivers adjusting plans as costs stay volatile. Florida Spotlight: Amazon’s Space Coast push (Project Leo) is moving ahead with hundreds of millions in investment and new jobs tied to satellite internet.

Food Access in Sarasota: All Faiths Food Bank opened Margie’s Market in Newtown, a historically Black Sarasota neighborhood that’s long lacked a full-service grocery store—built from resident input as a one-year pilot meant to be replicated elsewhere. U.S.-Cuba Pressure Campaign: The DOJ is reportedly preparing to indict Raúl Castro over the 1996 “Brothers to the Rescue” shootdown as CIA chief John Ratcliffe visits Havana, while Cuba’s energy crisis worsens amid U.S. oil restrictions and rolling blackouts. Scam Alert (Power): FPL warns customers about rising AI-generated scam calls claiming “energy compliance” rebates and pushing people to share personal info. Florida Politics: A new report says Democrats are gaining momentum in Florida—raising the question of whether the state’s GOP tilt can be reversed. Fuel Prices: Diesel remains volatile but some pockets show lower prices in the May 9 week, with multiple counties reporting standout lows.

Food Inflation Hits Hard: Tucson restaurants are getting squeezed by surging tomato prices, blamed on a warm winter and record heat in Mexico’s Sonora and Sinaloa—so menus are shifting fast. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show diesel and E15 deals are still spotty across Florida—Broward’s lowest diesel hit $4.85 (week ending May 9) and Duval’s lowest E15 landed at $3.99—while midgrade in Hernando dipped to $4.35. Energy & Land Tensions: A fresh wave of debate is swirling around data centers, with new reporting arguing they’re straining water, power, and farmland as communities push back. Cuba Pressure Escalates: The CIA chief’s Havana trip and U.S. moves toward possible charges against Raúl Castro keep the island’s energy crisis and political future in the spotlight. Local Safety: A Plant City man was arrested for DUI with a 5-year-old in the car and two guns found in the vehicle.

Cuba Pressure Campaign: CIA chief John Ratcliffe’s public Havana trip is feeding a bigger push—Trump says he’ll “turn it around” and pull Cuba away from China and Russia, while the DOJ moves to indict Raúl Castro over the 1996 “Brothers to the Rescue” shootdown, raising fears of a Venezuela-style endgame. Energy & Markets: Investors are bracing for higher rates as crude and inflation fears flare, with global bond markets sliding and stocks retreating. Florida at the Pump: Gas-tax relief debates keep heating up as lawmakers and candidates argue over suspending state or federal levies to blunt Iran-driven fuel spikes. Local Impact: South Florida diners and fishermen are feeling the squeeze from higher fuel and food costs. Science & Resilience: FSU researchers report a method to forecast winter weather months ahead, aiming to help agriculture, water planning, energy use, and public health prepare earlier.

Cuba Pressure Escalates: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says Cuba’s only path to a better future is ending communism, as the CIA chief heads to Havana for rare talks and U.S. reporting points to possible legal action against Raúl Castro—while Cuba’s energy crisis and blackouts keep fueling protests. Iran Tensions, Energy Anxiety: The U.S. Navy is enforcing an Iran blockade with helicopter support, and fuel-price volatility stays front-and-center for Florida drivers. Gas Watch (Local): GasBuddy reports the lowest E85 in Nassau County at $3.88/gal (one station), while diesel in Hillsborough County bottoms out at $4.83/gal. Local Power Moves: Tampa Bay Rays and officials took a public step toward a new ballpark deal with a nonbinding MOU. Community & Safety: Thunder On Cocoa Beach returns this weekend, and a Tavares soldier missing in Morocco’s African Lion exercise has been found dead. Sports/Travel: World Cup hotel rates are dropping as the tournament nears.

US–China Energy & Security: Trump left Beijing touting “fantastic” trade deals and saying the two sides are aligned that Iran can’t get a nuclear weapon, while Xi warned Taiwan differences could spark “clashes and even conflicts.” Cuba Energy Pressure: CIA Director John Ratcliffe held rare talks in Havana as Cuba’s energy crisis deepens; the US is also moving toward indicting Raúl Castro over a 1996 aircraft shootdown, ratcheting sanctions and aid-for-reform demands. Florida Grid Readiness: FPL is running full-scale hurricane drills, stress-testing restoration plans and command centers ahead of the next storm. Nuclear Momentum: Goldman’s reactor tracker highlights continued nuclear buildout, including Florida Power & Light’s St. Lucie renewals up to 80 years. Fuel Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports show Broward’s lowest regular gas at $3.99 and Florida’s average around $4.40 for the week ending May 9, with volatility still tied to Iran-linked shipping risk. Tech Demand Backdrop: Separate coverage flags hyperscale data centers as a growing strain on farmland, water, and power—fuel for the next round of energy policy fights.