Why You Should NOT Shop For School Supplies This Weekend in Southwest Florida
Like it or not, summer vacation will be wrapping up soon. Time for parents and guardians to start preparing for getting the kids back to school. To help save a little money put off going to the stores this weekend. Wait until Monday to shop for school supplies, the start of Florida's sales tax holiday for back to school. There are actually two of these shopping tax holidays geared towards parents, teachers and students. The second one is in January to the start the new year.
About the sales tax holiday
The dates to get sales tax waved on certain back to school items are July 24th through August 6th. Before you whip out your credit card, there are a few things to take note of.
Clothing is included but only up to $100. Items that are tax free in the clothing category also include shoes and accessories. School supplies is a big one and can rack up some dollar signs. This includes all the basics you need for the classroom. Anything in this category with a price tag of $50 or under is tax free. In addition, there are certain items that are considered learning aids that are tax free. Think jigsaw puzzles, flash cards, memory games, books and the like.
Finally, personal computers and accessories are included. This is a big deal because sales tax ads up quickly on these bigger ticket items. But once again, there is a price cap. The limit on tax exemption for computers and related items is $1,500.
If you are purchasing any of the above items at an airport, theme park, or entertainment complex, the tax exemption will not apply. It also does not apply to any repairs or alterations on the above items. One more thing, Sam's Club is offering discounted memberships to teachers. Click here for more. Happy shopping and enjoy what is left of the summer.
Wonder Gardens In Bonita Springs Is A Fabulous Find
With the kids out of school, many parents and guardians are looking for ways to entertain the entire family during the long summer. We are fortunate to have lots of great things to do in Southwest Florida. I have driven by this spot hundreds of times but it has been more than a decade since I've stopped. Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs is a Fabulous Find for summer and all year round.
Bonita Springs Wonder Gardens
It is a hidden gem on Old 41, a slice of old Florida that has been welcoming tourists since the 1960's as Everglades Wonder Gardens. Over the years the mission has changed a bit and today it is a non-profit. The gardens are still home to native flora and fauna, but now has more than 300 animals. The historic spot offers all kinds of special events and educational activities.
One of the big attractions at the gardens has always been the flock of American Flamingos. However, that flock is now down to two. Both were hatched on Wonder Gardens property during the 1960’s/ 1970’s. Their pink color is starting to fade as they age but they are still graceful and fascinating to watch in their lagoon with a peaceful waterfall.
Wonder Gardens activities
You can only feed the animals during special, daily animal encounters. With these, a staff member carefully guides visitors into turtle pins, lorikeet aviaries and along the the alligator pit. During the experience they educate visitors on the animals. Next, they provide food and let you do the work. The lorikeets are the most interactive. They fly around and even land on your head.
Check out this video of the alligators. Some are about to outgrow the pond and will be relocated soon.
The gardens were damaged by Hurricane Ian but everything is opened again with the exception of the welcome center. However, repairs are nearly complete and it is expected to reopen in July. A bonus for locals, Bonita Springs residents enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Here are some photos. Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs is a Fabulous Find
