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Friday's Daily Pulse
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida wants to build a cybersecurity sector. The question is how?
In 2014, the Florida Center for Cybersecurity was established by the Legislature with several purposes in mind: bringing high-paying jobs to Florida, attracting companies, and educating and training a cybersecurity workforce. So how many companies has the center brought to Florida? FC2 can’t quantify that. How many college graduates has it helped place at local companies? The agency can’t say that, either. [Source: Tampa Bay Times]
Related, from Florida Trend:
» Video interview with Brian Murphy, CEO of cyber security firm ReliaQuest
Florida cities turn to private inspectors as construction booms, and problems follow
With construction booming throughout Florida, private inspectors are increasingly reviewing the work of building contractors. But that has sometimes led to missed code violations and other problems. "I would agree with the statement: ‘Florida has a dire shortage of inspectors,’" said Doug Wise, current president of the Building Officials Association of Florida. "A common theme of our members throughout the state is the challenge of finding inspectors.’’ [Source: Tampa Bay Times]
There's a problem with stem cell therapy in Florida
Medical experts warn the diseased and desperate are now targets of a booming new stem cell industry in Florida promising better health. But we discover the truth is leaving some patients disappointed, frustrated and in some cases, sicker after treatment. [Source: WPTV]
Florida's medical marijuana industry takes off
Florida’s 16-month-old medical marijuana business is growing fast, as dispensaries and growers rush to establish themselves. It’s happening even as court battles over state regulations for the young industry rage on. [Source: Orlando Sentinel]
New coalition seeks to help Puerto Ricans adapt to life in Florida
A dozen civil organizations are teaming up to help Puerto Rican migrants settle in Central Florida, as islanders seek better economic conditions on the mainland. Abrazo Boricua — which translates to "Puerto Rican hug" — includes national Latino organizations like UnidosUS and the Hispanic Federation, as well as local faith and community organizations. [Source: The Hill]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› Business groups back Gov. Scott in Senate run
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce along with state and local affiliates on Thursday officially endorsed Gov. Rick Scott in his bid for U.S. Senate. The move, hyped by Scott and the chambers as a “major announcement” at press conferences in Jacksonville and Orlando, is unsurprising.
› Brightline to launch simulated service to Miami
Brightline trains will begin trips between Fort Lauderdale and Miami this week in preparation of a full service launch to Miami in the coming weeks, the passenger rail service announced Thursday.
› Prison operator Geo's first quarter profits decline on revenue increase of nearly 3 percent
Boca Raton-based prison operator The Geo Group on Thursday reported lower earnings on higher revenues for its first quarter that ended March 31. Geo said net income was $35 million, or 29 cents a share, a 13 percent decline from $40.4 million, or 35 cents a share, in the first quarter of 2017.
› Ride-sharing Safr coming to Orlando, focuses on women's safety
A ride-sharing company with the stated mission of offering safer rides and work environments for women has expanded into Orlando. The company’s decision to target women and children as passengers was a reason it expanded to Orlando, where families visit theme parks year round.
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