Thursday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 4/2/2015

U.S. jobless data boosts labor market picture

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits unexpectedly fell last week, suggesting the labor market continues to expand at a solid clip even as economic growth has stalled. More from Reuters.

Publisher's Column
Florida gains momentum

Florida is on a roll. The state has passed New York and now is the third most populous in the nation. Businesses are finding a hospitable environment here.

In this 47th consecutive Economic Yearbook issue, Florida Trend makes note of the state passing the 20 million population mark.

» Read the full column from Florida Trend publisher, Andy Corty, here.

Stage set for budget battle between Florida House and Senate

The stage is set for an epic budget showdown between the Florida House and Senate. Later today, the House will vote -- and is expected to overwhelmingly approve -- its $76.2 billion budget. On Wednesday, the Senate unanimously approved its $80.4 billion budget 36-0. More at the Tampa Bay Times.

Airbnb adding private Cuban homes to listings

Airbnb lets travelers book stays in a shipping container in the Netherlands, a treehouse in Spain and a castle in Croatia. And as of Thursday, the company will add private homes in Cuba known as casas particulares to its million-plus listings in more than 190 countries. More at the Miami Herald.

Florida grapefruit a hit drink in South Korea

Red grapefruit cocktails are helping to increase Florida grapefruit consumption in South Korea, prompting state agriculture officials to renew a partnership with Outback Steakhouse restaurants there. More at the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

Federal grant allows farmers markets to help needy eat better

Starting with a grant from Alachua County five years ago, Florida Organic Growers seeded a program at local farmers markets to promote healthy eating among food stamp recipients while supporting local growers, later expanding to 21 farmers markets through a state grant. More at the Gainesville Sun.

Out of the Box
Using LEGO robots to introduce STEM to students

Miami Edison Park K-8 Center student Lakeria Gathers hopes to one day secure a college scholarship so she can study something related to technology. Her interest in technology was ignited when a group of students from Florida International University visited her school, accompanied by a robot, to conduct a demonstration and enroll students in a new after-school program.