SHOP TALK: Cool tools, stats and useful news

COOL TOOLS

From candles and torches to lamps that run on oil, gas or electricity, the human race has long depended on sources of portable light. And perhaps no one knows that better than Florida residents during storm season, where flashlights and batteries are indispensable.

As another tropical system churns up in the Atlantic, why not add an Energizer rechargeable LED flashlight to your emergency supply?

Keep it plugged into a wall socket, and this emergency light activates automatically in the event of a power outage. Retractable prongs make it easy to grab when you need a flashlight, and the built-in NiMH battery never needs replacing. It provides light that is four times brighter than standard LED technology, with a runtime of up to 3.5 hours. Plus, a two-mode sliding switch lets you move between high and low power.

The Energizer rechargeable LED flashlight currently sells for $10.97 at Amazon and Home Depot, where 92 percent of customers rated it with four or five stars. Many praise its compact design and strong light output, noting that it serves equally well as a nightlight, and in emergencies.

It also earned an average review of 4.6 out of five stars on Amazon, from more than 2,700 customers. One happy purchaser even called it "an awesome purchase you will absolutely love."

To purchase or learn more, go to https://amzn.to/31N6I27.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT ...

Amazon may take over empty Simon mall stores

Is an Amazon distribution center coming to your local Simon Property Group mall?

Seattle-based Amazon is reportedly in talks with the nation's largest mall operator to convert empty department stores including Sears and J.C. Penney anchor spaces into distribution centers.

The Wall Street Journal was first to report on the possible talks, citing people familiar with the matter. The Journal reported Simon's discussions with Amazon began before the coronavirus pandemic led to temporary store closures.

Sears and J.C. Penney declined to comment while Amazon said it has a "policy of not commenting on rumors or speculation."

From USA Today, Aug. 9; read the full story at https://bit.ly/2PKrES7.

STAT CHECK

Average Sales Price* for July 2020 as reported by the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors.

July 2018: $274,288

July 2019: 282,546 (+3.0%)

July 2020: $325,665 (+15.3%)

*The category tracks and compares the average number of days between when a property is listed and when an offer is accepted in a given month. A complete market report is available at NEFAR.com.

Compiled by Homes editor Anne Hammock. Know of a tool, book or news tip you’d like to share with ShopTalk readers? Send details to [email protected] or call (904) 359-4628.