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Wednesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
After 6 years and $1.9 billion, secretive Magic Leap unveils its product for the first time
Magic Leap, the Plantation-based startup that has raised $1.9 billion in financing and now employs thousands in South Florida, introduced its first product on Wednesday. “Magic Leap One, Creator Edition” is a wearable computer that combines Magic Leap’s “Digital Lightfield” technology, visual perception and machine learning. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Business Insider, and Tech Crunch.
Tampa Bay no longer among nation’s leaders in foreclosures
New foreclosure filings in the four-county area dropped 7 percent between October and November, and 63 percent from November a year ago. And while it’s the nation’s 20th largest metro area, Tampa Bay now ranks 97th in foreclosures. More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Public support for Visit Florida split
Just months after seeing the budget for the state tourism marketing agency cut to $75 million amid a cantankerous political fight, Gov. Rick Scott is asking again for a major boost. His request for an additional $24 million in the 2018-19 year is already facing scrutiny. More from WUSF.
Plastic bags could be banned in Florida beach towns
Plastic bags could disappear from many local coastal towns under a pilot program proposed by state lawmakers as part of an effort to reduce waste and help the environment. Currently, several statutes in Florida restrict cities from creating environmental legislation, but that could be changing. More from Action News Jax.
One of Florida's biggest insurers plans to withdraw from its auto insurance line
In a Securities and Exchange filing, Sunrise-based Federated National Holding Company said it will begin the " appropriate steps to withdraw from the auto business including seeking approval from the state regulatory authorities." More from the South Florida Business Journal.
Energy
Building a smarter energy future
Duke Energy is shaping the energy future with cleaner, smarter solutions for Florida and its 1.8 million customers here in the Sunshine State. That’s why the company is making strategic investments throughout its service area to improve system reliability, protect the environment and increase the use of renewable energy like solar. [Sponsored report]
Out of the Box
Holiday golf cart parade at Florida RV park
For the 19th year, a stream of elaborately decked out holiday golf carts took to the streets this week to light up Horseshoe Cove RV Park for the neighborhood’s Annual Golf Cart Parade. The decorations were intricate and dazzling and included a float rendition of a Christmas tree complete with 1,500 lights, a choo-choo train, motorboat, stagecoach, and of course Santa’s sleigh.
» Read more from the Miami Herald.
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