Wednesday's Afternoon Update
Almost half of Florida children live in low-income homes
Research suggests that, on average, families need an income of about twice the federal poverty level to meet their most basic needs. Children living in families with incomes below this level—$44,100 for a family of four in 2010—are referred to as low income. In Florida, 45% of the state's 3,885,132 children live in low-income families, slightly higher than the national average. More at the National Center for Children in Poverty and the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Campaign finance reform bill has major loophole
Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford wants to crack down on about how Florida's campaign-finance process allows big-money interests to thwart disclosure by funneling millions of dollars for ads, entertainment and other campaign largesse through obscure, third-party groups. But the response taking shape leaves a glaring loophole: political parties themselves, and the "leadership funds" the Legislature re-authorized two years ago. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
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» Gov. Scott said to be readying $100M campaign
Column: FMLA still helping families cope with illness
This week, the FMLA celebrates its 20th year in existence. It’s been a godsend for those of us who want time to bond with our newborn, care for an aging parent or deal with a health emergency without the fear of losing our jobs. But two decades after President Bill Clinton signed the FMLA into law, advocates say they still have unfinished business. More at the Miami Herald.
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» Family leave extended to military and families
Postal Service to cut Saturday mail
The U.S. Postal Service will stop delivering mail on Saturdays but continue to deliver packages six days a week under a plan aimed at saving about $2 billion. More at the Fort Myers News-Press and the AP.
UF’s Young Entrepreneur Program seeking mentors and support
The University of Florida’s Young Entrepreneurs for Leadership and Sustainability (YELS) summer program is looking for successful local entrepreneurs to share their experiences with a new batch of business-minded high schoolers. More at the Gainesville Business Report.
Out of the Box Led by CEO and founder Freddie Laker, Guide’s team of seven is focused on turning online news, social streams and blogs into video for users who may be cooking, exercising, commuting or getting ready in the morning. The application offers consumers a selection of about 20 “anchors” — including a dog, a robot and an anime character — that will read the article and present the accompanying photos, pull-out information and video clips in its video presentation. Read more from the Miami Herald, see Guide's official site and see a video below: |