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Friday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida one of the fastest growing solar states in the nation
Florida moved into the top 10 solar states for the first time since 2011, adding 748 megawatts in 2017. The Sunshine State was also the third fastest growing solar state last year, growing 109 percent, according to a report by the Solar Energy Industries Association and GTM Research. More from the Palm Beach Post and WJCT.
See also:
» In the New South, customer demand is showing utilities the dollars and sense in solar
» Solar power: Here's where each state now ranks
Winn-Dixie parent company to close stores, file for bankruptcy protection
Jacksonville-based Southeastern Grocers LLC, which operates supermarket chains Winn-Dixie and Bi-Lo, said on Thursday it is preparing to file for bankruptcy and would shutter 94 underperforming stores. More from Reuters and the Florida Times-Union.
Port Manatee draws German consul general’s interest
Port Manatee holds promise as a trade gateway for German companies, according to Germany’s Miami-based consul general, who visited the Florida Gulf Coast port Thursday. More from the American Journal of Transportation.
With a ban under consideration, greyhound racing brings out surprising defenders
As legislators consider a proposed constitutional amendment asking voters to phase out greyhound racing by 2021, the people who love the dogs on both sides of the issue worry about their future. It is the dogs’ apparent contentment that has caused even die-hard racing opponents to say the situation is nuanced. More from the Tampa Bay Times.
New report offers snapshot of health of Hispanic residents in Orange County
For the first time, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County has issued an assessment of the Hispanic population, showing several areas of need and highlighting health disparities in the community. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
Business Profile 
Stay competitive with tools and resources from Veterans Florida
Every business has a need for a talented workforce and today’s veterans are a great fit for any company looking for hard-working, intelligent men and women with a unique mission-focused attitude. Veterans Florida can help your business recruit, hire and train America’s best talent resource, our veterans. Full story here. [Sponsored report]
Business Profile
Higher gear
Ralph McLaughlin and Vinny Binstock have big growth plans for Sarasota-based Mac Exotic Car Storage. The company has seen 40% revenue growth over the past two years.
» Read more from the Business Observer.
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