Construction is finally a bright spot for small firms

Is the recovery in home prices finally translating into jobs? Small businesses in the Southeast U.S. have a mixed outlook for the next year, according to the latest semi-annual survey by the Atlanta Fed, but construction and real estate stand out as bright spots. More at Businessweek and the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

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Florida No. 5 when it comes to retiree income

It’s not just the weather that makes Florida a good place to retire. The financials tend to comfortable, too. A new study by Interest.com gives Florida the No. 5 slot when it comes to how senior citizens’ income compares pre- and post-retirement. More at the Miami Herald.

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Southwest Florida trails state in sales data

Higher Education Compensation at the top of Florida's universities Bernard Machen, President of the University of Florida State university presidents’ five-year contracts typically include health and life insurance, state employee retirement plan contributions, travel expenses for spouses outside university service areas and a paid sabbatical if they resign from the presidency and remain at the school. » Full story

Southwest Florida's economic growth has dipped below the state average this year after leading many other major Florida markets for much of the post-Great Recession recovery. In a reverse of past results, the Sunshine State posted a 6 percent climb in gross sales -- a rate nearly double the regional gains. More at the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

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Delivery giant DHL expands in South Florida

Delivery giant DHL is expanding operations in South Florida, partly to meet rising demand for trade with Latin America, the chief of its parent company said during a visit Monday. Germany-based DHL recently invested more than $20 million to add facilities at Miami International Airport, a key hub for air freight to and from the fast-growing Latin American region. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

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LongHorn executive VP to become Ruby Tuesday president

Todd Burrowes, an executive vice president of operations for LongHorn Steakhouse, has left to become president of the Ruby Tuesday chain. Burrowes will also be chief operating officer of Tennessee-based Ruby Tuesday Inc. LongHorn Steakhouse is owned by Orlando-based Darden Restaurants. More at the Orlando Sentinel.

Fashion Trends Florida teen with cancer designs clothing line Talia Joy Castellano’s YouTube channel has nearly 600,000 subscribers. She also has a growing following on Twitter, Facebook and a number of other social networks. The Orlando native is a beauty and makeup video blogger who’s also battling two forms of cancer. Some videos are for updates on her cancer treatment, and some are for interacting with fans, friends and family. Talia, 13, an honorary CoverGirl, is fulfilling her dream of becoming a fashion designer with her recently completed collection, “That Bald Chick.” » Full story from the Miami Herald » Angels for Talia official site

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