Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Florida Gas Prices Soar, Small Businesses Strategize to Cope

3/21/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Key Information: Florida gas prices push costs on small businesses, with gasoline near $4 and diesel above $5.
Tasha Pizarro, owner of Momma P’s Ice Cream, faces higher fuel costs.
She refuses to raise prices, hoping to avoid customer backlash.
Chris Gonzalez of Mona's Floral Creations groups deliveries to save fuel.
Both express concern about future costs as peak seasons approach and emphasize strategic planning amid ongoing price fluctuations.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 Oil Crisis, triggered by an OPEC embargo in response to the Yom Kippur War, quadrupled oil prices from $3 to nearly $12 per barrel, severely impacting economies worldwide. This crisis marked the end of post-war prosperity, leading to inflation and unemployment in the U.S. Today, rising gas prices in Florida reflect ongoing vulnerabilities for small businesses, echoing the challenges of the past.

1 of 2

Story summary

Key Information: Florida gas prices push costs on small businesses, with gasoline near $4 and diesel above $5.
Tasha Pizarro, owner of Momma P’s Ice Cream, faces higher fuel costs.
She refuses to raise prices, hoping to avoid customer backlash.
Chris Gonzalez of Mona's Floral Creations groups deliveries to save fuel.
Both express concern about future costs as peak seasons approach and emphasize strategic planning amid ongoing price fluctuations.

1 / 2